The 10 Acts You HAVE To See At All Points East 2023
Tuesday, 15 August 2023
Written by Jack Terry
All Points East is poised to return for six more eclectic days of music, covering a huge range of genres while offering plenty of star-wattage at the top of the bill. With headline performances incoming from Aphex Twin, The Strokes, Haim, Dermot Kennedy, Jungle and Stormzy (who caps his own specially-curated ‘This Is What We Mean’ day), there's going to be something for everyone at Victoria Park in London. Looking beyond those essential acts, we've selected our top 10 artists you simply have to see to help you plan your days.
August 18: This Is What We Mean day (Headliner: Stormzy)
Knucks
Knucks' debut album ‘Alpha Place’ was a lightning rod for the ever-improving UK rap scene. His ability to tell stories from his Kilburn upbringing was feverish and volatile, and the roster of friends he brought in for features — including SL, Youngs Teflon and Stormzy — only elevated his craft further. It's easy to see why Stormzy hand picked him for the lineup, and hopefully Big Mike makes a guest appearance.
Dexter in the Newsagent
The lockdowns of 2020 were a tough time for us all, but there have been a number of good things to come out of them: among them is London alt-pop singer Dexter in the Newsagent. From recording her lo-fi, trip hop-inspired tunes entirely on her phone, to professionally creating a rich and warm collection of tracks that sound purpose made for a summer afternoon, hers is a rags to riches story for the ages.
August 19 - Field Day (Headliners: Aphex Twin / Bonobo)
Fever Ray
Formerly one half of the legendary dance duo The Knife, in solo mode Karin Dreijer specialises in dark, atmospheric electropop and an enigmatic stage show that features masks, body paint and a multipurpose gauze screen. Fever Ray is one of the most interesting acts found across the entire festival. If that's not enough, simply go for the Vikings theme If I Had A Heart.
August 25 (Headliner: The Strokes)
Amyl and the Sniffers
When it comes to Amyl And The Sniffers, there's no BS. Theirs is a sound that feels as if it was crafted within the walls of the legendary CBGB: pure and unapologetic punk brimming with energy. The Aussie punks will hit Victoria Park like a shot of adrenaline delivered straight to the heart.
Black Midi
Experimental rockers Black Midi are a fascinating enough prospect on record, with their blend of mathy prog and avant-jazz being far more cohesive than it has any right to be. Even more fascinating is how it comes together in one of the most bombastic and electric live shows around. Good luck to The Strokes following them.
August 26 (Headliner: Jungle)
Gabriels
It's been just seven years since they formed, but in that time, American-English trio Gabriels have performed at Glastonbury twice, been named on BBC Radio 1's Sound Of 2023 and had their debut EP called “one of the most seminal records of the past 10 years” by none other than Elton John. Do yourself a favour, believe the hype and be sure to catch their irresistible blend of jazz, doo-wop and gospel.
Raye
Hot off the back of her superb collaboration with Stormzy, Raye’s set is hotly anticipated this year. The chameleonic vocalist has shown that she can do everything from ‘90s-tinged R&B and mournful ballads to feel-good soul numbers and nightclub floor- fillers. Whatever your vibe, Raye’s got you covered.
August 27 (Headliner: Dermot Kennedy)
Aurora
Whether you intended to or not, you've heard AURORA's work. She sang the Oasis classic Half A World Away on 2015's John Lewis Christmas advert, she sang opposite Idina Menzel in Frozen II's Into The Unknown and she's penned tracks for Travis, Tom Odell and Chemical Brothers. The term ethereal has become overused, but we're certain Aurora is not of this planet.
August 28 (Headliner: Haim)
Nell Mescal
It will have been exactly one year to the day since Nell Mescal's performance at All Points East 2022. Then, she had a modest but impressive bag of tracks to serenade the crowds. This time around, she's getting ready to embark on her first headline tour of the UK and with a string of stunning new singles in her steadily growing repertoire. Her lilting Irish folk will make for a gorgeous soundtrack to the final day of the festival, come rain or shine.
Romy
Romy may be gearing up to release her debut solo album, but All Points East is a familiar stomping ground. As a member of The xx, Romy headlined Day 2 of the inaugural edition of All Points East, taking top billing alongside Bjork, LCD Soundsystem and Nick Cave. Now, even without her bandmates, she makes for one of the final day's most accomplished and welcome features.
All Points East Upcoming Tour Dates are as follows:
Fri August 18 2023 - LONDON Victoria Park
Sat August 19 2023 - LONDON Victoria Park
Fri August 25 2023 - LONDON Victoria Park
Sat August 26 2023 - LONDON Victoria Park
Sun August 27 2023 - LONDON Victoria Park
Mon August 28 2023 - LONDON Victoria Park
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