Wild Fields Festival 2024: A Harmonious Blend of Music, Art, and Sustainability
The Wild Fields Festival 2024, held on August 16 and 17 at the picturesque Earlham Park in Norwich, was a vibrant celebration that blended music, art, and sustainability into a unique and memorable experience. Over two days, festival-goers were treated to an eclectic mix of performances and activities that highlighted both emerging talent and established stars, all while emphasizing the festival’s commitment to environmental consciousness and community engagement.
The festival’s opening day commenced at the Climate Live Bus, a focal point for showcasing up-and-coming talent in an intimate setting. Zamani Fitri opened the stage with a soulful performance that captivated the audience, his emotive voice resonating throughout the bus. Following him, Esme Emerson brought a touch of dreamy indie folk that transported listeners to a whimsical, melodic world. The afternoon continued with I.Am.Afiya, whose vibrant mix of R&B and electronic beats energized the crowd, setting a lively tone for the rest of the day. Nectar Woode and Santa Rita further enhanced the atmosphere with their innovative alternative grooves, blending a range of influences into their distinctive sounds.
As evening fell, the main stage came alive with a series of standout performances. Sam Eagle kicked off the evening with his infectious indie pop, immediately lifting the spirits of the crowd with his playful and upbeat tunes. The soulful jazz of Yazmin Lacey followed, her performance rich with emotional depth and sophistication that perfectly set the mood for a night of musical exploration. Jalen Ngonda then transported the audience back to the golden age of soul with his classic and resonant sound. The jazz brilliance continued with Nubya Garcia, whose performance was a masterclass in contemporary jazz, featuring intricate rhythms and mesmerizing solos.
Sampa The Great took the stage next, bringing a powerful and intense hip-hop performance that left a strong impression with her thought-provoking lyrics and commanding presence. As the night drew to a close, Ezra Collective delivered a high-energy set that seamlessly blended jazz, afrobeat, and hip-hop, encouraging the audience to dance and celebrate. The dynamic interplay between the band members created an electric atmosphere that was a perfect end to an exciting first day.
The second day of the festival began with a fresh wave of talent at the Climate Live Bus. Zo Lief delivered a deeply personal and introspective electronic-pop performance, capturing the audience with her emotional delivery and innovative soundscapes. Arthur Black followed with a raw and energetic indie rock set that resonated with authenticity and intensity. LFAY offered a soothing acoustic performance that created an intimate connection with the audience, while Alice-Lily closed the afternoon with her charming and imaginative indie pop, leaving festival-goers eager for more.
On the main stage, the evening’s performances were a testament to the festival’s diverse musical offerings. Chartreuse opened with a set of melancholic indie music that struck a chord with many, their reflective lyrics and atmospheric sound drawing the audience into a contemplative mood. Abu Coulibaly then took the stage, his performance characterized by a fusion of global sounds and powerful vocals that created a captivating and unique atmosphere.
Jeshi followed with a performance that combined rap and poetry in a raw and honest manner, showcasing his lyrical prowess and emotional depth. Jeshi’s concert showcased his powerful social commentary and personal storytelling. Performing tracks from his debut album “Universal Credit,” he delved into themes of working-class struggles and austerity, building on the themes from his earlier EPs “BAD TASTE” and “The Worlds Spinning Too Fast.” His set offered a raw, empathetic view of poverty and luck, leaving a strong impression with its intense and heartfelt delivery.
Priya Ragu introduced her distinctive blend of R&B and Tamil influences, her set bringing a fresh and vibrant energy to the festival. The energy continued to build with Squid, whose post-punk and experimental sound pushed musical boundaries and engaged the crowd with its intensity and innovation.
Gaby Rivers delivered an electrifying performance at the Wild Fields Festival 2024, blending upbeat indie and alternative originals with her powerful, soulful vocals. With her five-piece band, the 21-year-old singer-songwriter captivated the audience, showcasing tracks from her recent EP “Disappointed but Not Surprised.” Her set was a standout, reflecting her impressive journey from major festivals and supporting acts like Ellie Dixon and Coach Party to selling out her debut headline show in Norwich.
As the festival neared its conclusion, Kae Tempest delivered an emotionally charged and poetic performance that held the audience in rapt attention. Their ability to convey profound emotions through their music was truly remarkable. Finally, SBTRKT closed the festival with a hypnotic electronic set, their immersive soundscapes and dynamic rhythms creating a fitting and exhilarating finale to an unforgettable event.
Wild Fields Festival 2024 was more than just a celebration of music; it was an immersive experience that highlighted creativity, sustainability, and community spirit. The festival successfully combined an impressive array of musical performances with a strong commitment to environmental initiatives, creating a space where artistic expression and ecological awareness went hand in hand. The diverse lineup, coupled with the festival’s focus on fostering a sense of community, left a lasting impact on all who attended. As the final notes faded and the festival drew to a close, it was clear that Wild Fields 2024 had set a high bar for future editions, leaving attendees eagerly anticipating what the next year would bring.
Photo’s (c) Jason MacDonald, Scream Photographic
