All Points East 2024: Day 1

The sun hung heavy and unforgiving over Victoria Park, casting its relentless heat on a sweltering sea of bodies at All Points East—a festival that has certainly embraced the reality of modern-day events, balancing the need for profit with a genuine desire to deliver an unforgettable experience. As I made my way past security, I was struck by the festival’s energetic atmosphere, a vibrant blend of music, art, and culture, albeit infused with the inevitable presence of corporate partnerships. The scent of freshly poured beer and the hum of anticipation filled the air, setting the stage for what would be a memorable day.

After navigating through the various brand activations, which, while undeniably commercial, did add an element of novelty to the festival, I made my way to the craft beer tent. Despite the crowds, there was a camaraderie among festival-goers, all united in their pursuit of a good time. After a brief wait, I grabbed a Madri and set off toward Taylah Elaine b2b Arthi, eager to see how the music would shape the day’s experience.

The scene was lively, with people fully embracing the festival spirit, like the man beside me, joyfully waving a bubble wand, adding a whimsical touch to the crowd. The real focus, however, was on Taylah Elaine and Arthi. Known for their energetic sets, my expectations were high, though the execution this time around didn’t quite hit the mark. Despite their valiant effort to mix genres, some transitions felt jarring, like the attempt to blend Joy Orbison’s Flight FM with Charli XCX’s Club Classics. But even when the music didn’t quite land, the crowd remained enthusiastic, a testament to the festival’s overall vibe.

The unexpected moment when Crazy Frog was mixed into Sandstorm was perhaps the most surreal of the day. While it might not have been to everyone’s taste, the crowd’s reaction was one of unabashed enjoyment, proving that at festivals like these, the experience is as much about the collective energy as it is about the music itself.

The day took a turn for the better with Tsha b2b Kilimanjaro, where we experienced a truly electrifying performance. Tsha delivered a masterclass in house music, with pounding basslines that had everyone dancing. Her set was a reminder of the festival’s potential to offer moments of pure musical bliss, allowing us to lose ourselves in the rhythm and forget the world outside.

Jyoty’s set continued this positive trend, blending classic R&B with a heartfelt connection to the crowd. Her surprise at the packed tent during Tems’ performance and her interaction with the South Asian members of the audience added a layer of authenticity and warmth, creating a powerful moment of unity and pride. Closing with Lemar’s “50/50,” Jyoty left the crowd buzzing with energy, a perfect reflection of the festival’s diverse and inclusive spirit.

Kaytranada headlined the night, delivering a set that was visually stunning, with neon LCD columns pulsating to the beat. While his solo performance didn’t quite capture the magic of his collaborative work, his production skills shone through, particularly during the crowd-pleasing Beyonce remix. Despite the occasional lull, the overall experience was engaging, with moments of brilliance that kept the crowd energized.

As the final beat dropped and the lights came back up, the crowd dispersed, leaving behind memories that would soon be shared and immortalized online. All Points East had managed to merge the commercial with the communal, bringing together a diverse crowd not just for the music, but for the shared experience of being part of something larger than themselves.

As I left Victoria Park, the echo of Kaytranada’s drums still ringing in my ears, I reflected on the day. Despite the festival’s corporate undertones, it had succeeded in creating a space where music, culture, and community could come together in a celebration that felt both modern and timeless.