Coachella 2026: A Celebration of Musical Diversity and Reunion

The British band The xx made a significant return to the stage at Coachella 2026 after an eight-year hiatus, performing on the main stage on Friday evening. Jamie Smith, Oliver Sim, and Romy Madley Croft, childhood friends who have pursued solo projects in the interim, showcased a set that seamlessly blended their signature sound with new material. Their performance featured 16 tracks, including their debut single "Crystalised," and was noted for its atmospheric and intimate vibe, despite the challenges of a festival setting. The set culminated in a visually stunning display, transitioning from grayscale to vibrant colors as the night progressed, highlighting Jamie xx's production prowess.

The Guardian

Simultaneously, the hardcore band Turnstile delivered a standout performance at the Outdoor Theater, captivating the audience with their energetic and cathartic set. Their show, which included tracks from their Grammy-winning album "NEVER ENOUGH," sparked a massive mosh pit, marking it as one of the festival's most exhilarating moments. The band's dynamic stage presence and emphasis on communal energy resonated with the crowd, reinforcing their reputation as one of the most exciting live acts today. The performance also carried a poignant undertone due to the ongoing legal issues surrounding their former drummer, Brady Ebert, though the band did not address this directly during the show.

Turnstile Perform Emotional, Triumphant Coachella Set

The girl group Katseye also made waves at Coachella, transforming their set into a theatrical experience dubbed "Katseye City." Performing hits like "Pinky Up" and "Mean Girls," the group maintained sharp choreography despite the absence of member Manon Bannerman, who is currently on hiatus. Their ambitious presentation aimed to create a memorable moment at the festival, aligning with their pre-festival aspirations.

Rolling Stone

While the performances were largely celebrated, some critiques emerged regarding the festival's overall atmosphere. Reports indicated that the sound quality during certain performances, particularly The Strokes, overshadowed other acts, leading to complaints from attendees who struggled to enjoy quieter sets amidst louder performances. Additionally, the visuals accompanying some acts, like Geese, were noted to be more engaging than the music itself, raising questions about the balance between spectacle and sound.

Desert Sun

Oliver Sim of The xx expressed the emotional significance of their performance, stating, “This set has felt the most special after so long away.” Meanwhile, Turnstile's frontman Brendan Yates acknowledged the weight of their performance amidst personal challenges, emphasizing the band's connection with their audience.

Turnstile Perform Emotional, Triumphant Coachella Set

As Coachella 2026 continues, fans can anticipate more performances from a diverse lineup, including upcoming sets from artists like Justin Bieber and Jack White, who is expected to deliver a surprise appearance. The festival remains a platform for both established and emerging artists, promising a rich tapestry of musical experiences for attendees.

Desert Sun

• “has felt the most special after so long away” — Oliver Sim, The xx

The Guardian

• “They’re all sons to me,” — Brendan Yates’ father, in a video played during Turnstile's set.

Turnstile Perform Emotional, Triumphant Coachella Set