From September 16th to 18th, Los Angeles State Historic Park hosted the city’s first ever Primavera Sound Music Festival. Created in Barcelona and recently expanded to include Los Angeles and Buenos Aires, this three-day music festival featured a diverse lineup that included more than 50 performers spread across the weekend.
Lorde, Nine Inch Nails, and Arctic Monkeys were listed as headliners for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to attend for any of these artists.
For me, that wasn’t too much of a loss because as a hip-hop fan, I was really excited to see Paloma Mami and Tierra Whack. I arrived right as Paloma Mami started her set. Immediately, I was blessed with an energetic performance that also featured a dance crew alongside her. Definitely an artist I’ll be following more going forward and someone I recommend you check out if you’re into discovering artists outside of the mainstream culture.
Photo by Miranda McDonald on behalf of Primavera Sound.
Checking Out the Stages
Up next, for my first ever Primavera Sound festival was the Smirnoff Ice Stage featuring Sangre Nueva and a three-artist b2b set. DJ Python, DJ Florentino, and Kelman Duran infused together for what I would describe as a pleasant performance. It was more than enjoyable getting to vibe out and smoke a couple joints sitting on the hillside underneath the Created in Barcelona sign.
After stopping for a quesadilla, I walked over to the Barcelona Stage where Tierra Whack had the crowd going crazy. Her bright outfit combined with her lyricism, wordplay, beat selection, and confidence captured my attention right away. I was hooked and immediately popped into Spotify to give her the follow. The crowd rapped her lyrics to a few different songs and was going hard right along with her. Her energy and everything about her performance was lit. That’s why Tierra Whack delivered my favorite set of the day by far.
The Chill Experience
At this point in the evening, I took the opportunity to walk through the festival. I checked out the various areas where guests were able to chill, as well as experience activations from brands like Just Egg, Tecate, Smirnoff, and Hangar 1 Vodka.
I thought it was hilarious that the Just Egg brand made it out to the festival. So, I hung out near their area for a bit while I enjoyed a solid performance from the Fontaines D.C. band. The group’s energy and message had the Tecate Alta Stage crowd fully tuned in and singing right along. I often find myself watching the crowd’s reaction and participation when I’m listening to music or taking in a performance I’ve not seen or heard before. This crowd was lit, and their energy had me enjoying the set even more. Another artist I hit follow on Spotify really quick after seeing and feeling the energy live!
Photo by Miranda McDonald on behalf of Primavera Sound LA 22.
Inspiring and Memorable Performances
Khruangbin and Surf Curse were the two performers who rounded out my evening. Performing on The Barcelona stage was Khruangbin, a band who had the best visuals and the funkiest music of my Saturday experience. With the sun basically full-on setting behind the Los Angeles skyline, the park and music elevated to even more of a beautiful vibe. This performance will definitely go down in my music festival history as one of the best and most enjoyable “sun-sets,” period.
Last but not least was Surf Curse, another band I’d not heard of but who also really surprised me. To me, their set could only really be described as inspiring. The lead singer was heard saying how he used to live right around the corner behind the stage. He continued on that he used to be one of those guys walking through the park singing for money. How it was such an honor to be playing this stage, this show, and to be here with us all. What an inspiring moment and performance it was.
Final Thoughts
In summary, my first time at Primavera Sound was definitely a 10/10. Everything to do with the festival was completely manageable, tolerable, and enjoyable. I really can’t wait to attend again next year. The difference will be me attending more than just one day and also staying for some headliners!
