The headline act of Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage was none other than The 1975, a band that has been a staple in modern pop rock since their formation over two decades ago in Cheshire. The group made a momentous comeback to the stage, having only scheduled this appearance for 2025 following a hiatus that saw them take a step back from performing since March. Their concert, held on Friday, was poised to be a pivotal moment at the iconic festival, as it was their sole performance of the year.
As the band took the stage, there was little evidence of rustiness from their break. The 1975 presented a slick, well-rehearsed performance that resonated with the enthusiastic crowd. They opened their set with an atmospheric introduction that featured an eclectic mix of static and sharp strings, seamlessly transitioning into their upbeat hit “Happiness.” This song set the tone for the evening as the group rolled through a series of crowd favorites including popular tracks like “If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know),” “Love Me,” and “She’s American,” tantalizing the fans with a playful interjection of the Backstreet Boys’ classic “I Want It That Way.”
Frontman Matty Healy exhibited a captivating duality throughout the set, embodying a blend of self-assuredness laced with vulnerability. His energetic presence was undeniable; he chain-smoked while infusing his lyrics with observations on contemporary relationships and the pervasive sense of disconnection in the modern world. He was candid about his nerves, thanking the audience for their support at the outset, stating, “This is really scary and I’m really nervous.”
Despite the high energy and polish of their performance, some critics argued that it lacked the wild exuberance that The 1975 is known for. Healy’s renowned antics, which typically include kissing fans and engaging in unpredictable behaviors, were notably toned down. The closest the band came to breaking free was during “People,” which allowed them to unleash a bit of the chaotic energy they are often associated with.
The production itself was lavish, reportedly costing four times their payment for the Glastonbury set, featuring elaborate stage designs with multiple catwalks, intricate moving walkways, and over twenty custom video screens. The band’s setlist was a masterclass in meticulously curated nostalgia, showcasing songs like “Chocolate” and “Sex” from their self-titled debut album, which have matured over the years and are now viewed as classics. By the time they performed “Love It If We Made It,” the emotional weight of Healy’s lyrics, addressing urgent themes in society, resonated deeply with the audience.
After a string of hits, Healy took a moment to express his convictions on his place in music, presenting himself as potentially the premier lyricist of his generation—a claim that sparked a complex reaction among the audience. This declaration brought a reflective tone to the performance just as they transitioned into “Chocolate,” a song recalling youthful mischief.
The balance between Healy’s self-deprecating humor and their grandiose musicality raises an interesting juxtaposition within The 1975’s artistry. One moment, Healy introduces a sign announcing he is changing his trousers, which undermines the seriousness and creates a fun, self-aware banter that makes their live show feel approachable yet potentially diminishes the electrifying atmosphere of a rock concert.
Despite the playful dynamic at play, the performance remained poignant, particularly when Healy touched on social issues, addressing why they had set aside political commentary for the evening. He alluded to a desire for their legacy to be rooted in love and friendship rather than politics. This departure foreshadows how their forthcoming sixth album may navigate these themes moving forward.
The 1975’s headlining set was a significant highlight of Glastonbury’s opening day, which also featured surprise performances from other artists, including a heartfelt return to the stage by Lewis Capaldi. Capaldi, after his previous struggles with performance anxiety, reclaimed his space amidst enthusiastic applause, bringing emotional resonance to the festival. Other notable appearances included pop sensation Lorde showcasing tracks from her freshly released album.
With stunning performances in various genres layered throughout the day, Glastonbury remains a festival where artistry, energy, and community coalesce, leaving audiences exhilarated and eager for what’s next on the horizon. The excitement continues with performances slated for the following days from an array of artists, ensuring the festival leaves an indelible mark on all who experience it.
