Loyle Carner is a delight at Reading 2023

Words: Finlay Holden.Photos: Frances Beach.

A relaxed fusion of jazz, rap and RnB radiates over the fields during a stellar showing from Loyle Carner. At this point established and with a diverse community backing him, the London creative is finding new ways to express his refined perspective. Cuts from last year's top five charting third LP ‘hugo’ rapidly delve into a succession of self-exploratory topics that lay bare his own view of self and society, always remaining hopeful even amongst the pain.

Charged offerings like ‘Plastic’ set light to racial injustices, while the lowkey grooves of ‘Damselfly, and ‘Ottolenghi’ call upon past hits and get the main stage crowds dancing once again. “Fuck that toxic masculinity bullshit,” he goes on to say, “and fuck the Tories as well.” Rich natural instrumentation is consistently infused with butter-smooth verses, making this set a delight to listen to whatever the lyrical stance.