The sound of snares and kicks thunders across the rolling hills of Centennial Park before you even get inside Laneway Festival’s Sydney edition.
Skegss get the crowd pumped up, releasing giant balls while thrashing through their songs, as the temperature rises. Crowd favourite Olivia Dean takes to the stage atop thunderous drums. Her silky smooth vocals are a perfect start to the day. "There's so many of you!" she exclaims."This is my first time playing in Sydney. I love you!" She swings her hips seductively, singing: "It looks like I'm in danger," while smiling to the contrary. "It's hot up here!" she declares, bringing out her banana shaker and then a guiro, smiling, as always. "Take this energy with you the rest of the day," she says for 'Dive', before shouting out a crowd member that's "been giving me good vibes all day".
Olivia Dean - image © Jacqueline Edmont
Joey Valence and Brae bring an insane level of energy to the alternate stage, singing "woke up and I'm feelin' like a punk," as the crowd jump high. Their blend of rock and hip hop is contagious. "This is crazy. What the f... is going on in Sydney?" they ask.
Back at the main stage, Remi Wolf makes it shake with her aggressive and heartfelt vocals. Her high notes are balanced and engaging, and the crowd is enjoying the clouds respite.
The VIP area features easily accessible food and beverages and the viewing stage is a nice experience, although it could benefit from a few more chairs. Behind the viewing area are comfortable lounges and a DJ, but there's no view.
Remi Wolf - image © Jacqueline Edmont
Djo gets the crowd screaming with his TikTok favourite 'End Of Beginning', before Clairo brings a lowkey jazz vibe that keeps everyone swinging. Finally the heat begins to die off, as 'Juna' has the crowd smiling.
Beabadoobee emerges to roaring screams, donning a pink guitar for the end of 'California'. Her guitarist shreds an impressive solo in 'Talk'. "You guys have the prettiest eyes I've ever seen," Beabadoobee says, before poking her tongue out. Her early set is surprisingly rocky, bordering on grunge, and she is one of the best performers of the day.
2hollis comes with an epilepsy warning, dancing around furiously, a dark silhouette before the blank white screen.
Beabadoobee - image © Jacqueline Edmont
At the main stage, Barry Can't Swim brings house fused with live instrumentals that has everyone vibing. The sound design is impeccable and perfect for a festival setting, as Barry plugs away at the keys. The songs pulse under red and blue lights, before the stage floods green. Blue lasers point out drawing a huge cheer from the crowd.
Warnings appear that the main stage is at capacity, and to seek viewing from the sides and rear, but thankfully the night has mellowed in temperature. Charli XCX enters to a droning synth and flashing images. Brat appears on the backdrop, as Charli exclaims: "Sydney, what the f... is up?" The crowd yells the, "I'm Julia," line, and they're sure to remember the summer of ‘25.
Alternative offering Bicep are rocking a full tent of patrons down to dance like their lives depend on it. There is something in the sound design and energy of the music that invites the crowd to come on a journey. It is a transformative experience.
Bicep - image © Jacqueline Edmont
Charli XCX ends her set with 'I Love It', and another festival day you loved comes to an end.
In a time where Australian festivals are sadly struggling, Laneway have managed to lure international acts and create a high quality experience, the gratitude for which was reflected in the massive attendance. Long live Australian festivals!
More photos from the festival.
