Festival Review: Cross The Tracks 2024
A soulful celebration with standout performances and heartwarming moments.
Last Sunday at Cross The Tracks 2024 was a whirlwind of emotions. Despite the heartbreak of Erykah Badu's last-minute cancellation, the festival managed to deliver an unforgettable experience in the heart of Brockwell Park, London.
As the sun rose, the air buzzed with anticipation. The festival grounds transformed into a vibrant celebration of jazz, funk, and soul, featuring an impressive lineup of over 70 artists. Fans gathered early, their excitement palpable, even as news of Erykah Badu's cancellation spread. Her absence was a heavy blow, especially since her team was on-site, ready for the day.
However, the festival's resilience shone through. Freddie Gibbs electrified the stage with an impromptu collaboration with Madlib, igniting the crowd. Emerging Artist winner Nayana AB captivated with her soulful performance, marking a memorable debut. En Vogue brought the house down, their energy contagious, while Eve declared it her favorite UK festival performance ever, which resonated deeply with fans.
A massive highlight from the day was Lady Wray’s gorgeous performance, reminiscent of Aretha Franklin with her powerhouse vocals and deep soulfulness. Her voice echoed through the park, captivating the audience as the sun beamed down on festival-goers. Little kids danced with their parents, creating a heartwarming scene, especially when Lady Wray dedicated a song to all the siblings, further endearing her to the crowd.
Local talents like NYJO students added a unique touch, their live band walkabout filling the park with spontaneous rhythms. Thee Sacred Souls' frontman, Josh Lane, mingled with the crowd, creating intimate moments that fans will cherish. When The Cavemen. performed "Beautiful Rain," the sky briefly opened, showering the audience in a perfectly timed downpour, adding a magical touch to their set.
The festival’s fifth edition stayed true to its roots, showcasing a diverse array of talent with a strong emphasis on emerging and homegrown artists. New additions like Son Little, David Rodigan, and Sekou brought fresh sounds that complemented the stellar lineup featuring BADBADNOTGOOD, En Vogue, Freddie Gibbs, and many more.
Cross The Tracks wasn't just about music. It was a full sensory experience with a rich creative market, insightful talks, panels, workshops, and an array of site art that brought Brockwell Park to life. Foodies enjoyed a plethora of options from over 45 street food traders and local breweries, ensuring no one went hungry or thirsty.
Despite the setbacks, the festival was a testament to the power of music and community. The outpouring of support, patience, and love from the attendees underscored the event's success. The team behind Cross The Tracks worked tirelessly to ensure the festival remained a joyous celebration, and their efforts were evident in every moment of the day.
As the festival came to a close, the collective experience of the day lingered in the air, a reminder of the magic that happens when music brings people together. Cross The Tracks 2024 may have faced challenges, but it emerged as a triumphant celebration of jazz, funk, and soul, promising even greater things for the future.
