It’s been a whirlwind day getting into Chicago, getting my gear together, and getting ready for my favorite fest of the year. But Intelligentsia has me twitching, so I’m ready to rock. Here are five acts I’m really excited about today. Willis Earl Beal He’s a total mystery to me. I can’t wait to find out what he’s all about. A$AP Rocky Super strong buzz about him. New hip-hop acts always take the stage with [...]
MICHAEL COLUMBIA THE MAE SHI FRIGHTENED RABBIT BLITZEN TRAPPER PHARAOHE MONCH THE THERMALS THE WALKMEN JAPANDROIDS VIVIAN GIRLS GRIZZLY BEAR THE FLAMING LIPS
Brian, the main man for Japandroids, had a fan blowing his asymmetric, curly locks around for a very Coverdale-esque effect. But maybe he was just hot. They burned through most of their Post Nothing album, and in general, took themselves a lot more seriously than I expected. They really do just wanna have fun and sing about sunshine girls. They were on fire, and really very for real. Vivian Girls are significantly more lively in [...]
I wrote this long post with pictures before the weekend began, and then forgot to post it. Ah well, here’s a list. Mae Shi We already saw them and they threw a party, with special guests rapping and dancing and an infectious spirit. They played like they had something to prove and nothing to lose. Frightened Rabbit Playing now to an underwhelming crowd. The truest fans are jumping around, and they seem to be winning [...]