Friday, July 16, 2010

Chicago’s Pitchfork Festival 2010 Boasts Can’t-Miss Bands!

Pitchfork Fest is this weekend! It’s Lollapalooza’s little hipster cousin, although it’s not so little anymore. Over the years the acts have gotten much bigger, as have the crowds. Yet, it is definitely more manageable than Lolla, not as stressful and better for people watching. That means more neon sunglasses, tiny clothes and fedoras galore, to say the least. As far as the performers this year, here are some highlights:

The Tallest Man On Earth (Friday @ 4 p.m.) – This Swedish folk singer wowed many with his 2008 album “Shallow Grave” and wowed even more so during his tour. The obvious comparison is to Bob Dylan, but of course there is nothing wrong with that because he pulls it off with real talent and in a refreshing way.

Broken Social Scene (Friday @ 7:20 p.m.) – Not sure how I can call myself a fan of indie music if I still haven’t seen them live, but oh well. I plan on making it happen this year. The Canadian ensemble of many individual talents is fresh off of their new album and I’m looking forward to seeing those performed as well as the great collection of songs they already have. New tracks “Sweetest Kill” and “Texico B*****s” are addicting.

Titus Andronicus (Saturday @ 3:20 p.m.) – These guys have exploded onto the scene and have proven they not only can put on a show but that they have some deep sense of purpose going on behind the punk sound they are often letting loose. See them.

Wolf Parade (Saturday @ 6:15 p.m.) – I have been a fan of these guys from the start and love their music. I love them live as well. I would be hard-pressed to say how they plan on fitting all of my favorite songs into their set, and I’m sure they won’t, given that they now have an impressive third album to add to their repertoire. Yet, their time on stage will be a true highlight for me this weekend.

LCD Soundsystem (Saturday @ 8:30 p.m.) – Done and done. They’re awesome. Their new album is awesome. And their show at Metro last month was the best show I’ve seen this year. It’s nothing but fun, and the ever-entertaining and ego-centric lead singer James Murphy will surely pack a punch.

Beach House (Sunday @ 3:20 p.m.) – A no-brainer. Despite the heavy competition in a fantastic Sunday schedule, this is a must-see. Man, can she sing and their show is amazing from beginning to end. Not to mention, their album “Teen Dream” is probably in my top ten of the decade. I’m serious. Don’t tell the guys.

Surfer Blood (Sunday @ 4:45 p.m.) – I really like these youngsters from Florida. They have a great summer, beachy sound as you can probably tell from their name. I am excited to see them live for the first time. I’ve heard good stuff.

Major Lazer (Sunday @ 6:15 p.m.) – I know I will be needing some high energy after a long day and even longer weekend, which is why I will see this duo of Diplo and DJ Switch over Neon Indian. It won’t be an easy choice though.

Sleigh Bells (Sunday @ 7:40 p.m.) – They must’ve picked up even more steam than I thought to get this time slot. Their music is loud and sometimes repetitive but it seems made to be enjoyed live in an outdoor party setting. It’s another difficult choice as I will have to miss Big Boi, but I look forward to this show as I expect them to really end my festival weekend with a bang. And although I have always liked their music, I think by this time I will have a limited desire to see Pavement, but it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t!

Have fun!


From http://blog.conciergepreferred.com