Bristol-based dance-punk duo Getdown Services performed at the Southbank Centre’s Meltdown Festival on June 18, 2024, as part of a residency curated by Harry Styles. The band delivered a set characterized by self-deprecating humor and high-energy electronic rock, drawing a sold-out crowd to the venue’s Purcell Room.
How Harry Styles Curated the 2024 Meltdown Festival
Harry Styles served as the curator for the 29th edition of the Meltdown Festival, an annual event hosted by London’s Southbank Centre. Styles handpicked a diverse lineup of artists to perform across 11 nights in June, following in the tradition of previous curators including David Bowie, Patti Smith, and Grace Jones. The festival, which ran from June 11 to June 21, featured a wide range of acts such as Warpaint, Orlando Weeks, and Dev Hynes. According to the Southbank Centre’s official program, the curation aimed to highlight artists who challenge conventional genre boundaries.
Getdown Services’ Performance and Audience Reception
During their Tuesday night set, Getdown Services members Josh Law and Ben Sadler addressed the logistical reality of performing in a seated, lecture-style venue. The duo, known for their mosh-heavy club shows, joked with the audience about the setting and their inclusion in a festival curated by a global pop star. Despite their onstage banter regarding the venue choice, the band performed tracks from their 2023 debut album, Crisps, and various EPs. The performance concluded with their single "Radiator," which sparked a positive reaction from the capacity crowd despite the band’s earlier humorous skepticism about the audience’s reception.
What Comes Next for Getdown Services
Following their appearance at Meltdown, Getdown Services is scheduled to maintain a rigorous touring schedule throughout the summer and into the winter. The band is set to release their sophomore album, Massive Champion, on August 14 via Breakfast Records. Their upcoming tour includes appearances at several major UK and European festivals, such as Truck Festival and Latitude, before they embark on a headline tour of the UK in November and December. Their London run will culminate in a headline performance at The Roundhouse on December 8.
Key Details of the 2024 Meltdown Residencies
- Curator: Harry Styles
- Event Location: Southbank Centre, London
- Festival Dates: June 11 – June 21, 2024
- Getdown Services Album Release: Massive Champion (August 14, 2024)
- Notable Performers: Warpaint, James Murphy, Soulwax, Bar Italia, and Jon Hopkins
Frequently Asked Questions
Who curated the 2024 Meltdown Festival?
Harry Styles served as the curator for the 2024 iteration of the festival, selecting a series of artists to perform at the Southbank Centre.
Where can I see Getdown Services live?
The band is performing at various festivals throughout the summer, including Truck Festival and Green Man, followed by a headline UK tour starting in November.
Is Getdown Services releasing new music?
Yes, the duo is scheduled to release their new album, Massive Champion, on August 14, 2024.