Rain at a UK festival is hardly a surprise, and festivalgoers at Download 2024 were well-prepared with their trusty wellies. While wading through ankle-deep mud is practically a tradition, what usually adds to the charm became a source of frustration this year. It wasn’t the mud itself, but the disruptions it caused that left fans disheartened—shortened sets, timetable clashes, and long delays all contributed to a somewhat challenging weekend.
By Friday, the torrential downpour made entering the festival arena an ordeal, with some attendees waiting up to an hour just to get in. Scene Queen took to the Opus stage, delivering a powerful six-song set that was both energetic and unapologetically fierce. Their unique mix of catchy tunes and sharp, biting commentary struck a chord with many, particularly the women in the audience who seemed to find their feelings mirrored in the music. While the genre might not have been everyone’s cup of tea, there was no denying the thematic impact.
Meanwhile, trying to catch other acts like Wheatus and Busted proved almost impossible. Despite the effort required to navigate the muddy grounds, many were left disappointed by the overcrowded tents and limited visibility.
Over on the Apex stage, Queens of the Stone Age offered a more stripped-back experience, performing lesser-known tracks without the typical festival headliner theatrics. For me, though, the highlight was in the Dogtooth tent, where Biohazard, the New York hardcore veterans, delivered an electrifying show. Their timeless message of unity and resilience resonated deeply, making Dogtooth my go-to spot for the weekend. Even though I ended the night catching the final moments of Queens of the Stone Age, Biohazard’s set left me on a high.
Saturday’s weather wasn’t any kinder, with thunder and continued rain leading to even more delays and some unexpected changes to the schedule. Babymetal, for example, had their set severely cut, much to the disappointment of fans. While safety is paramount, it was hard not to feel let down by these abrupt adjustments.
Tom Morello, however, lifted spirits on the Opus stage with an unforgettable performance. Known for his outspoken nature and undeniable musical talent, Morello effortlessly balanced his politically charged messages with top-notch guitar work. His newer material even had echoes of Bruce Springsteen, which was a pleasant surprise. As if to match the magic of the moment, a rainbow appeared, arching over the crowd—a perfect metaphor for the brief moments of joy amidst the challenging conditions.
Back at the Apex stage, Enter Shikari had the audience buzzing, paving the way for a nostalgia-filled evening. Offspring and Fall Out Boy took the crowd on a trip down memory lane, while Pantera attracted a massive audience, delivering a powerful set that paid tribute to the late Dimebag Darrell. Zakk Wylde stepped in with impressive guitar work, and Charlie Benante from Anthrax filled in on drums, keeping the spirit of the band alive.
Despite the rain and logistical hurdles, Download Festival 2024 still managed to deliver some memorable moments. The resilience of both fans and performers in the face of unpredictable British weather showcased the enduring appeal of this iconic festival.
