All Points East: Bank holiday bonanza off with a bang

A stellar line-up dotted across six stages attracted thousands, with the mood one of total euphoria after an unprecedented 18 months.

Seemingly, people's biggest dilemma was how to optimise the day to see as many of their favourites as possible - not a bad problem to have.

While headliner London Grammar brought the house down with typical aplomb, Friday was a day where every artist shone.

Crowd at the front of the North Stage at All Points East. (Image: Polly Hancock)

Beyond the musical talents on display, each radiated a sense of gratitude at simply being there.

It was a timely reminder of just how bad the pandemic has been for this industry, thankfully now a recovering one.

A frequent scene was hundreds of people streaming from the East Stage to West Stage, where the line-up times had been staggered by design.

While London Grammar and grammar-nominated Jorja Smith were on the East Stage, fan-favourite Mahalia and Loyle Carner were on the West Stage.

This meant that after seeing one people would make their way across the park to catch the other.

That said, there was plenty in between the two biggest stages to capture people's attention, namely the artists on the other four.

Låpsley on the North Stage at All Points East. (Image: Polly Hancock)

A standout from the North Stage was Låpsley, while Eloise was a favourite on the Firestone Stage.

Eloise on the Firestone Stage at All Points East. (Image: Polly Hancock)

There was also a lot of love for the BMW Play Next stage, a platform for the biggest breakthrough artists.

Jodie Nicholson and Tyson are definitely names to watch out for.

The fairground rides at All Points East 2021. (Image: Polly Hancock)

Highlight of the Day

Mahalia.

This powerhouse - signed since the age of 13 - saw her lofty reputation soar even further after delivering a set as full of emotion as it was talent.

Honourable mentions go to Hoxton boy Kojey Radical and Conrad.

With day one done, organisers can reflect on a brilliantly put together festival which has already achieved its goal of giving people a bank holiday to remember.

Check back for more coverage over the next three days.

Mahalia at All Points East in Victoria Park (Image: André Langlois)

All Points East festival in Victoria Park (Image: JORDAN CURTIS HUGHES)

Låpsley at All Points East (Image: JORDAN CURTIS HUGHES)

Hannah Reid from London Grammar at All Points East (Image: Tom Hancock)

Hannah Reid from London Grammar at All Points East (Image: Tom Hancock)

Låpsley at All Points East (Image: JORDAN CURTIS HUGHES)

Kojey Radical at All Points East (Image: JENIFER MCCORD)

Jorja Smith on the East Stage at All Points East (Image: RORY JAMES)