We’re a mere 18 hours or so from Tortoise taking the C stage at this year’s P-Fork. I’m charging my camera, washing some socks, and looking for the best place to grab a vegetarian breakfast in the city only newbies still call Chi-town.
So, while y’all get ready to experience the weekend vicariously through me (and my wife, Acacia), ponder these recommendations, and consider which’ll be more worth your time, the official Pitchfork Webcast or Emusic’s pretty much comprehensive guide to the collective output of the bands being assembled this weekend.
FRIDAY
Tortoise
I just want to get close enough to see John McEntire play.
The Jesus Lizard
I’m thrilled to have lived long enough to see them play. (I was a little too young the first time around.) Honestly, though, I hope I don’t have to see David Yow’s testicles.
SATURDAY
Plants & Animals
P&A have a big opportunity to prove themselves to a lot of hipsters who’ve been ignoring them because they really do sound like a jam band on record sometimes. A killer live set that transcends that kind of pigeon-holing, drawing in the resistant against their will, is exactly what they could pull off if the 60s-cred of The Dutchess and the Duke doesn’t steal their audience away.
The Dutchess & the Duke
Like the first Strokes album, She’s the Dutchess, He’s the Duke reminds me of another time, and it’s short enough to leave me wanting more. So, I just keep starting it again from the beginning. It’s a pleasure that doesn’t demand too much investment, but doesn’t leave me feeling guilty either. I have no idea how this will translate to a tent in the middle of the day, but I’m willing to give it a try.
Fucked Up
I’m told they’re the most important punk band in America. I’m told their moniker is aptly descriptive. They have one of those challenging afternoon spots, playing in the bright sun before half the crowd even shows up. I hope they just tear shit up and rip the sun out of the sky.
Yeasayer
All Hour Cymbals is a great album I’m still getting a lot out of, and judging by their Dark Was the Night track, “Tightrope,” Yeasayer is getting even better at writing songs. Their expansive, other/wordly sounds should be perfect for a wide-open venue like this.
Doom
So, I guess this makes Doom the official indie-rapper of 2009, eh? Well, MF always brings the weirdest, and it’s always fun to watch good MCs try to make indie kids put their mother-fucking hands up.
The National
Really, Matt? The National? Yes, sirs and madams. The year was 2006, the site was the first P4K Fest, and the time was about 1:30 in the afternoon. The crowd was reluctant to even pay attention, but 30 minutes later we were all jumping down screaming “I’M MR.NOVEMBER! I’M MR. NOVEMBER!!!” Matt Berninger and co. make anthems for late evenings, but through sheer will power they conquered the day. This year they’re more appropriately placed in the closing spot on Saturday. As they’re playing the day will literally become the night and I’m anxious to see if they can own it.
And there are a few other bands I like and have not seen, but the list above represents my top priorities. What are your top picks?