Wallice delivers an impressive show of potential at Reading 2023

Who thought singing about your own death could be so uplifting?

Words: Finlay Holden.
Photos: Frances Beach.


From nervous jazz student to fully fledged star, Wallice has fought through her own coming-of-age story through three EP releases to date. Appearing on the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage, the LA musician draws in the crowd’s self-doubt and shakes it all off with some introspective indie-rock.

Holding some serious notes and hopping on and off guitar duties, Wallice gets a big crowd response even so far from home. ‘Hey Michael’ balances rowdiness and relaxation well before ‘Punching Bag’ has the whole tent swaying, with the band leaning into the chilled-out energy. ‘90s American Superstar’ picks up the tempo before the punch of ‘Best Friend’ perks up listeners despite the collective hangover. ‘Funeral’ brings an impressive run of tracks to a close – who thought singing about your own death could be so uplifting?