Who you really need to see at Laneway Festival this year

It’s finally here. One of my favourite Antipodean festivals, Laneway Festival, is back for 2023 with a stellar lineup. Laneway is such a vibe, man. I always have the best time. Off my face with my friends, wearing thick sunscreen that stains my clothes, smelling like a sweet mix of shitty cologne and fresh grass. It’s always sunny. I’ve never had a bad laneway experience and I am sure this year will be no different.

I’ve done you a solid and handpicked five acts you must get around if you’re fortunate enough to be going.

Mallrat

Australian songwriter, producer and cool girl Mallrat (Grace Shaw) creates timeless pop that has been stuck in my head for years. I love her music so much. Her vibe is smooth, she’s almost ethereal, and after watching countless Youtube videos of her live sets, I just know she’s going to be a good time.

Slowthai

Pacesetter Slowthai is gracing us with his presence this year. He really doesn’t give a flying fuck what anyone thinks, and his music gets me all jumpy. Maybe that’s why he’s blown up so much over the last year. You’ll catch me front left at his set.

Knucks

Following his Nas-inspired debut mixtape Illmatic, rapper-producer Knucks has since garnered widespread acclaim with his innovative sound. With over a quarter of a billion streams, and a string of legendary collaborations from Stormzy to Kenny Beats, the North London rapper is rapidly becoming a household name throughout the UK and global hip-hop stage. I’m here for him(!!!)

Joji

Three words:Die for you. That’s all. No explanation is necessary; you can’t articulate his magic.

HAIM

I’ve actually met the three sisters before IRL; I served them steamed broccoli at Mekong Baby when I was a waiter. Lol. It’s my only good memory from that period of my working life. And they are just as angelic in real life as you can imagine. Perfect skin. Beautiful hair. Voices that shatter records and bring crowds to their knees, or better yet, their feet. I can’t wait to watch them rip Laneway a new one.

Buy tickets here.

Words — Liam Sharma