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Once again it’s summer time and you know what that means. Pool days, epic amounts of laziness, and of course music festivals. This June I will be returning to Manchester, Tennessee to soak up the experience that is Bonnaroo Music and Arts festival. While Bonnaroo isn’t the only festival happening this summer, it’s definitely the most accessible for folks in Georgia and arguably the best in the country. Let’s take a look at some of the contenders for best music festival this summer.
Wakarusa- Wakarusa Music Festival in Ozark, Arkansas is held June 3-6 and promotes a more down to earth vibe. Set in the foothills around Mulberry Mountain, this festival hosts jam band acts such as Widespread Panic, Slightly Stoopid, and STS9, all of which are playing this year. Although not as big as some festivals, Waka has the pull of being more connected to nature, chances for hiking, and other activites around the area.
Lollapalooza- The Lollapalooza Music Festival started in 1991, and between many ups and down has come full circle into being one fo the biggest festivals in America. It is held every year in Chicago featuring the biggest acts in music from a hugely diverse spectrum of music. Perry Farrel, the lead singer of Jane’s Addiction started the festival as a farewell tour for his band, and from there it took off. It starts August 6 and goes through the 8th this year and promises headlinging acts from artists such as Lady Gaga, Green Day, MGMT, and so many others.
But onto the festival at hand. Bonnaroo. This year from June 10-13, a small town in Tennesse will host over 100,000 people, effectively multiplying the town population by 10. From the comedy tent, playing host to such comedic acts as Conan O’ Brien, and Aziz Ansari, to the Silent Disco and Cinema Tent, there’s more than just Music to be seen at Bonnaroo.
Without a doubt 2010 is coming together to be one of the most amazing Bonnaroo line-ups ever. I’ll be running through a list of bands I’m pumped t see, as well as some that I think are good bets to be a great time.
Kings of Leon- These Tennessee superstars shot to fame with their last CD and seemingly took over the rock world. Having already seen them live I csn testify to the fact that this is a worthy concert. I’m very excited to see them headline Bonnaroo.
Jay-Z- The king of hip-hop is headlining Bonnaroo as well, with Conan O’ Brien Mc’ing in between. Jay-Z and Conan are an amazing mix in my book.
Phoenix- The French electro-pop band have come a long way since last Bonnaroo. This time it’s sure to be an insane show with everyone in the known free world having heard their smash single “1901.”
Dan Deacon Ensemble- This lesser known electronica group puts an astoundingly intense live show that makes you feel the music as much as hear it. Recommended if you like to dance till 6 a.m.
Circa Survive- This Philly experimental rock band has been in on my top 3 all time favorite list for years, and it’s quite easy to see why. They just make music that no one else can duplicate, although many try. Anthony Green’s esoteric vocals have to be heard to be believed.
Fanfarlo- Another under the radar indie pop band from London whose sound is especially unique. Check out their hit “The walls are coming down,” and then check them out at Bonnaroo.
Manchester Orchestra- The Atlanta natives hit it big after touring with Kings of Leon and now have come to Bonnaroo this year. One of the biggest shows of their career, I can’t wait to see what they don in front of 30,000 people.
These are just a sampling of the diverse bands that will be at Bonnaroo Music Festival this year. It looks to be one of the craziest years ever, and it’s an experience to have with a good friend, so grab your buddy and make your way to Tennessee this summer for an unforgettable weekend.
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