Words: Alison Mack
The east London festival Visions celebrated its second year yesterday (August 2) across a raft of venues, and was not without its moments.
Top draw Andrew WK's set at The Laundry was abruptly curtailed as organisers pulled the plug following a stage invasion by fans. During his performance the US artist found the stage became a tad crowded after he was joined by more than a couple of fans as he played songs from his back catalogue including 'Party Hard' and 'We Want Fun' - which he certainly got.
The invasions began during 'Party Hard' and continued as he began a countdown from 100 to the final song; as he reached the conclusion fans tore down the video screen as more and more fans bombarded the stage. Eventually, W.K's microphone and piano were unplugged and the set was ended.
Earlier in the afternoon Cheatahs opened events on the same stage and powered their way through a blistering set. Followed later by Joanna Gruesome who took over the designated spot at the last minute after Fat White Family pulled out due to illness. Eagulls too continue with their impressive rise up the ranks.
At the Oval Space, the likes of Alvvays, Dirty Beaches - powering drum machines and a touch of leather - Veronica Falls lit up the stage; while Swedish songstress Alice Boman delighted afternoon crowds for her set at the wonderfully named New Empowering Church, as did IYES at the Brewhouse.
The clash of the day possibly came between debating whether to remain at the Oval Space for headliners Poliça, or head back to the New Empowering Church for Perfume Genius, playing a one-off UK festival date. Poliça, fresh from Glastonbury festival in June, always manage to hold a captive audience, as the Minneapolis outfit again achieved tonight, with Channy Leaneagh’s auto-tuned vocals striking a hauntig delivery.
Performing new material from latest album 'Too Bright', Mike Hadreas - Perfume Genius - was joined for the hour-long set by Los Campesinos' Tom Bromley on guitar, and included 'Queen' and 'My Body', as well as earlier album favourites such as 'Take Me Home' and 'Look Out, Look Out'. Despite at times under threat of being drowned out by the chatter of inebriated punters, Perfume Genius still managed to steal the show with self-effacing musical beauty.
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