Holly Humberstone first caught our ears early in the pandemic with her debut EP Falling Asleep at the Wheel, leading to the English songwriter soon after performing for us outside of her Grantham, Lincolnshire home for an early installment of our “Neighborhoods” series. It was a remarkably assured introduction to the then-20-year-old artist, establishing the moody, introspective pop she’s continued to refine in the years since.
She’s built a global following in the time between, leading up to the arrival of her second album, Cruel World. Returning to Coachella for her second appearance (following a 2022 set), Humberstone spent release day on the Gobi stage—and brought us along for the ride. Take a look at her day on the Empire Polo Club grounds as captured by photographer Deanne Chen below. You can also find more live shots from this year’s Coachella here.
Carolina doing my makeup all nice before stepping out. She was so sweet and made me pretty.
I loved my outfit for the show so much. My dress was Dilara, my boots are by a brand called Lili Curia, and my jewelry is all vintage pieces—which I think are more special because they hold history and feel magical to wear.
Was cool to see my name on the iconic Coachella trailer in glitter font!
Loda, my gorgeous drummer, pre-show. She looks like a fairy princess but plays like a rock star!
Here we have Jack, who is a top shredder and a total angel. Getting ready before show.
Here is sir Seth who is my bassist and Musical Director and he is as lovely as he looks.
Here is sir Seth, who is my bassist and musical director. He is as lovely as he looks.
Me and my stunning band/besties. A lot of the new album has a more bandy/communal sound because being on stage with them is my happy place.
Backstage huddle with the band. We do this to remind ourselves why we do it and to remember to just have fun, because that’s literally the whole point!
Loda walking up to stage. I loved her dress and hair so much.
I remember feeling super overwhelmed by all the love in the crowd for the new songs I was playing. The album had only been released for a couple hours, and some people already knew all the words!
The Gobi stage was so fun to play because it felt intimate whilst also really vibey with the red tent and the crystal chandeliers.
Saying bye!
I literally have the best job in the world: I get to go on stage with my band in a cute lil’ outfit and have fun and connect with people through songs. I’ll never take any of this for granted!
Moments after coming off stage! We had a big day and lots to celebrate, and this moment felt like a huge relief that everything had gone well!
