Shura might have been tipped as an odd pick for Metropolis, but it was quite the opposite. The Sherpards Bush based synth-pop wonder gathered one of the biggest crowds of the hour. The album was strong and live it is just as wonderful to listen to. Powering through lovestruck lyrics and channelling 80s dance pop sounds, Shura connected with the audience on a level that beckons a stand alone gig surely.
Fatima Yamaha gave a glimpse of intense beats and on of the best visuals throughout the festival. While The Sugerhill Gang proved their status soon after on the main stage, throwing out the hits early to satisfy the anticipating crowd.
But it was French electronic star, Fakear, who offered one of the hidden gems of the weekend. On the smaller Serpentine Room stage, located between the Red Bull Music Academy and Main Stage, a simply backdrop and beats had seen a steady flow of revellers streamed in. ‘Morning In Japan’ and ‘La lune rousse’ were examples of the Bonobo style and simplistic musical structure.
Before finishing up, a stroll into the Red Bull Music Academy offered the chance to catch RalphRolfe, the CHIC drummer who will have fond memories of packing out the main hall yards away this time last year. Rolfe has been a true festival favourite, performing on the site visit, and twice on the Saturday line-up.
The biggest spectacle was reserved for GraceJones, who arrived late on stage to build anticipation. There’s a hustle in the photo pit for this one, to capture a great performer who is captivating on stage and has oceans of charisma. Jones makes three costume changes within as many songs, first arriving on the balcony in the background, slowly dancing down to the stage before disappearing for a few moments before launching into her next track. After being whisked away following the first few tracks, Jones’ finest moment is appearing on stage waving a huge flag before obliging in hits.
And so that concluded three excellent days of music, installations, and fun. Metropolis has cemented itself as a premier festival to welcome us into winter.
Words: RobMoro
Photos: Manon Gustave
Shura might have been tipped as an odd pick for Metropolis, but it was quite the opposite. The Sherpards Bush based synth-pop wonder gathered one of the biggest crowds of the hour. The album was strong and live it is just as wonderful to listen to. Powering through lovestruck lyrics and channelling 80s dance pop sounds, Shura connected with the audience on a level that beckons a stand alone gig surely.
Fatima Yamaha gave a glimpse of intense beats and on of the best visuals throughout the festival. While The Sugerhill Gang proved their status soon after on the main stage, throwing out the hits early to satisfy the anticipating crowd.
But it was French electronic star, Fakear, who offered one of the hidden gems of the weekend. On the smaller Serpentine Room stage, located between the Red Bull Music Academy and Main Stage, a simply backdrop and beats had seen a steady flow of revellers streamed in. ‘Morning In Japan’ and ‘La lune rousse’ were examples of the Bonobo style and simplistic musical structure.
Before finishing up, a stroll into the Red Bull Music Academy offered the chance to catch Ralph Rolfe, the CHIC drummer who will have fond memories of packing out the main hall yards away this time last year. Rolfe has been a true festival favourite, performing on the site visit, and twice on the Saturday line-up.
The biggest spectacle was reserved for Grace Jones, who arrived late on stage to build anticipation. There’s a hustle in the photo pit for this one, to capture a great performer who is captivating on stage and has oceans of charisma. Jones makes three costume changes within as many songs, first arriving on the balcony in the background, slowly dancing down to the stage before disappearing for a few moments before launching into her next track. After being whisked away following the first few tracks, Jones’ finest moment is appearing on stage waving a huge flag before obliging in hits.
And so that concluded three excellent days of music, installations, and fun. Metropolis has cemented itself as a premier festival to welcome us into winter.
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