On a pleasantly warm Sunday evening, 30th June, Hyde Park in London became the epicenter of musical magic as part of the BST Hyde Park events. This night featured an impressive lineup headlined by the rock giants Kings of Leon. Supported on the main stage by an eclectic mix of artists including Paolo Nutini, The Vaccines, Cannons and Gary Clark Jr., the event promised a night to remember, and it did not disappoint.
As a first-timer to BST Hyde Park, I was struck by the how well organised the venue is. The main stage setup was great, with an impressive tree feature, lighting and top-notch sound quality that carried each note to 60,000 people across the park. The vibe was energetic from the start, enhanced by the access to the VIP area, which provided a welcome respite from the inevitable queues at the bathrooms and offering a variety of food and drink with plenty of places to sit and relax.
The Performances
Kings of Leon took to the stage with an extensive setlist that spanned their nine-album career. Opening with “Ballerina Radio” and powering early on through hits like “Sex on Fire,” “Revelry,” and new favorites like “Mustang,” they had the crowd singing along with every song. Notable tour debuts such as “Taper Jean Girl” and “Cold Desert” added an element of surprise and delight for long-time fans.
Paolo Nutini delivered a soulful and yet pyschedelic set weaving through hits like “Iron Sky” and “Acid Eyes.” A memorable moment during his performance was the confusion on Nutini’s face as news of England’s win in the Euros spread through the crowd, leading to cheers that he could have mistook as accolades for his performance. Although his performance was worthy of all the accolades.
The supporting acts each brought their unique flavor to the event. Liverpool’s Red Rum Club closed their set with “Would Rather Be Lonely,” igniting enthusiastic singing and dancing. The Daydreamers had the crowd swaying in sync, reminiscent of country line dancing—a delightful discovery for many in the audience.
The Kings of Leon demonstrated a remarkable sound, proving why they are still at the top of their game. The band balanced their performance with minimal chit-chat, focusing instead on delivering a seamless and engaging musical experience. Their ability to energise the crowd was evident, particularly during the encore when “Use Somebody” which resonated powerfully with the audience.
The attendance surged as Kings of Leon’s set approached, likely due to the concurrent England Euros match. The diverse crowd, ranging from die-hard KOL fans to casual listeners, created a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. The early drizzle gave way to perfect concert weather, enhancing the overall experience.
Personal Highlights
One of the standout performances of the night came from The Meffs, whose energetic set and the formation of the most friendly mosh pit ever invigorated the crowd. Personally invited by Kings of Leon, The Meffs’ performance was a revelation, leaving many, including myself, eager to see them again.
The concert was a stellar kickoff to the BST Hyde Park series, showcasing a blend of seasoned performers and exciting new acts. From the impeccable organisation to the dynamic performances, it was a night of unforgettable musical moments. If this concert is any indication, BST Hyde Park promises a spectacular series of events throughout July.
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