Highlights from Pitchfork Music Festival London 2023
Last week, Pitchfork Music Festival London made a vibrant return to the capital for its fifth edition, showcasing an impressive lineup of 81 acts across 20 events. Venues included the striking Barbican concert hall, the iconic Shacklewell Arms, and the innovative Cafe Oto in East London. This year’s festival brought together music legends like Laurie Anderson and Lonnie Holley alongside boundary-pushing artists such as underscores, Los Thuthanaka, and MIKE. Below are six standout performances from the week.
Truck Violence – 93 Feet East, Tuesday, November 4
Truck Violence made a bold statement at 93 Feet East, covering the Pitchfork logo backdrop with a hand-written sign reading “Violence.” This not only serves as the title of their upcoming album but also sets the tone for their performance. The four-piece band delivered an unrelenting mix of sludge-metal and post-hardcore, characterized by fierce drumming and distorted riffs. However, it was Karsyn Henderson’s versatile voice—shifting between yelps, whines, and growls—that captivated the audience. The introduction of a banjo during “I bore you now you bear for me” transported listeners to the band’s rural Alberta roots, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.
Ali Sethi & Nicolás Jaar – Union Chapel, Wednesday, November 5
The collaboration between poet Ali Sethi and producer Nicolás Jaar felt destined, especially after Sethi’s Instagram Live sessions during lockdown where he recited Ghazal poetry over Jaar’s ambient soundscapes. Their performance at Union Chapel was nothing short of mesmerizing. Jaar crafted intricate electronic soundscapes filled with metallic flickers, delicate piano, and deep bass, allowing Sethi’s powerful and ethereal voice to shine. The venue’s stunning stained-glass rose window, depicting medieval instruments, added a visually enchanting backdrop to the spellbinding hour.
Los Thuthanaka – ICA, Thursday, November 6
At the Institute of Contemporary Arts, the sibling duo Chuquimamani-Condori and Joshua Chuquimia Crampton delivered an exhilarating performance that resonated with the historical significance of their surroundings. As they played bass-heavy renditions of traditional Andean Huayño rhythms, their energetic presence was undeniable. The pulsating drum beat of “Phuju” paired with Crampton’s sharp guitar riffs created a vibrant atmosphere. Dressed in matching Aymara suits and cowboy hats, they effortlessly fused communal and fluid elements, making the audience dance to DJ E’s “Until I Find You Again” while the lifeless Mall outside contrasted sharply with their lively performance.
Conclusion
This year’s Pitchfork Music Festival London successfully celebrated a diverse array of musical talent, blending established artists with innovative newcomers. From the raw energy of Truck Violence to the ethereal collaboration of Sethi and Jaar, each performance contributed to an unforgettable experience, showcasing the richness of contemporary music in the vibrant backdrop of London.
FAQs
What is the Pitchfork Music Festival London?
The Pitchfork Music Festival London is an annual music festival that features a diverse lineup of artists across various genres, held in multiple venues throughout the capital.
When did the festival take place this year?
The festival took place over five days, concluding on November 6, 2023.
Which venues hosted the festival events?
This year, events were held at renowned venues including the Barbican, Shacklewell Arms, and Cafe Oto.
Who were some of the notable performers this year?
Notable performers included Laurie Anderson, Lonnie Holley, Truck Violence, Ali Sethi, Nicolás Jaar, and Los Thuthanaka.
How can I find out about future Pitchfork Music Festivals?
To stay updated on future festivals, you can visit the official Pitchfork website or follow their social media channels for announcements and lineup information.
