Surviving the third day of a festival can be a challenge. You’re running low on energy after the first two days, and the end feels far enough away that summoning more stamina seems daunting. Hangovers stack up, sleep becomes a distant memory, and your tent resembles a post-gig scene from Cardiff after an Oasis concert. A mismanaged line-up could quickly throw everything off course.
Fortunately, Poland’s Open’er Festival had some surprises in store on Friday, July 3. Little Simz filled the atmosphere with warmth and joy, followed by Muse, who unleashed riffs as massive as the planes that typically land on this airfield, and finally, Justice, who brought down the house with their electrifying dance beats. We’re ready for another day of music tomorrow, but here’s a recap of the highlights from day three.
Muse Delivered Massive Riffs and Glam Extravagance
Every true rock star needs their moment of glory—an ego walk extending into the crowd for some swagger and applause. Mere moments into Muse’s main stage set, frontman Matt Bellamy strutted down the ego walk, banging his head to his own rock anthems. When they dropped the iconic “Hysteria” just three songs in, the tension built with the famous intro, leading to a frenzy in the crowd as they let loose their colossal riffs.
As the audience packed the viewing platform and sound system opposite the stage, Bellamy belted out piercing guitar solos while fans sang along. It resembled Freddie Mercury’s famous call-and-response from Live Aid, but with added devil horns. This was classic rock at its finest, yet it also had a flamboyant vibe reminiscent of the band’s 1990 album Showbiz, highlighted by Bellamy’s luminous bomber jacket and the flashy lights illuminating the stage. By the time multicolored streamers exploded into the front rows, you wouldn’t be surprised if Simon Cowell showed up to judge.
Interestingly, despite Muse’s usual exploration of dystopian themes, Bellamy refrained from delivering any overt political commentary. They did, however, screen a portion of a John F. Kennedy Cold War speech, which echoed over the speakers, emphasizing themes of concealment and silencing, with the underlying message of hope for a “free and independent” America. This seemed particularly poignant in today’s politically charged environment. (JB)
Little Simz Radiated Joy
There’s something incredibly genuine about Little Simz. Even when her music dips into darker, industrial textures, her voice shines through as a beam of pure light. That authenticity was palpable at Open’er on Friday.
Kicking off her set in a cap, oversized bomber jacket, and black sunglasses, she looked like a secret agent, flanked by her dependable bassist and keyboardist. Initially, she seemed guarded as she rapped through intense numbers like “Thief” and “Flood” from her recent album, Lotus, moving across the stage with determination to shake off the weight of the world.
But as she removed her shades, her expression lit up with genuine joy beneath the setting sun. Strolling down the ramp with an infectious “’Ellooooooo!” she radiated warmth and energy.
The Polish audience, always appreciative, had Simz overflowing with gratitude. Each round of applause met with her sincere bows and thanks. Before launching into “Free,” she recounted performing for just 10 people, expressing awe at the sea of fans before her. “Thank you so much. I don’t take any of this for granted,” she said, her London accent shining through.
Showing off her diverse sonic range from jazzy funk to industrial rock fusion, Simz turned her set into a collective affirmation during the emotionally charged “Only.” She led the Gdynia crowd in a chanting chorus of “Only love in my heart,” creating a soulful moment before diving back into the party spirit with tracks like “Mood Swings” and “Fever” from her 2024 Drop 7 EP. The audience lost themselves in her infectious energy as bodies moved together in harmony.
What could have been a reflective show turned into a communal celebration, witnessing Simz’s journey from vulnerability to empowerment, leaving everyone feeling lighter and more fulfilled. (KSW)
More Festival Highlights
As Liam and Noel Gallagher reunited at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium for an eagerly awaited Oasis reunion, FKA Twigs and her stylish dancers were busy delivering a markedly different performance at Open’er’s Tent Stage. Interestingly, all three artists have received the coveted NME Godlike Genius Award.
Twigs demonstrated why she earned this title, executing precise dance moves atop an industrial set while captivating the large audience with her unique blend of art-pop and R&B.
Meanwhile, transitioning from Muse’s colossal riffs, St. Vincent graced the Tent Stage with her own fierce theatrics, bringing a captivating array of tracks from her 2024 album, All Born Screaming. The energy soared as she danced and engaged the audience, even diving into proggy territory with an epic finale that intertwined multiple musical styles.
Over at the Alter stage, AG Cook led an electrifying hyperpop performance, bouncing the crowd with his glitchy synths and imaginative remixes of tracks featuring Charli XCX. The late-night tent transformed into a vibrant wonderland, filled with frantic visuals and infectious energy.
Disappointment over Trippie Redd’s cancellation faded as local sensation Otsochodzi took the spotlight. His fusion of frenetic beats and sharp lyrics showcased the best of Polish rap, captivating even those unfamiliar with the language. Sometimes, festival surprises shine brightest, and this was no exception. (KSW)
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