For the past month Hyde Park has been home to the annual BST (British Summer Time) festival, hosting world class music acts from Guns N Roses to Take That, and even Billy Joel. For anyone who craves the festival scene but can’t live without a real bed and a warm shower, this is the perfect middle ground.
Last week the main stage was dominated by Lana Del Ray, supported by indie crooner Father John Misty. Amidst much speculation following her curtailed set at Glastonbury, it seems Ms del Ray still hadn’t learned her lesson. However, her adoring fans maintained their energy for a fashionably late entrance, which didn’t falter for 90-minute set planned.
Whilst Lana may not have the most ‘high energy’ hits, her almost effortless, soul-stirring voice has defined not only a Tumblr generation but carved out an entire aesthetic that many in the London crowd had dutifully subscribed to. Even her new album ‘Did You Know There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd.’ had a loyal army reciting the words verbatim. For those lucky enough to be on the barrier, there was a small interlude to have a meet and greet with Lana herself.
However, no matter how casual of a fan, the atmosphere encapsulated the entire crowd to give an intimate feel even with thousands surrounding you; I don’t know if anyone is immune to ballads of ‘Video Games’ or ‘Ultraviolence’.
By Grace Sanders
