by Jaime-Paul Falcon

These were originally supposed to be longer pieces going in depth on who to see at what times, but it being a down year for the fest (the nightly closers are pretty terrible), combined with the fact that none of us are going we decided to just giving you highlights from each day.

Who to catch:

The Low Anthem

My love for this band is well known, so all I can say is they play an early slot, and would be a wonderful way to start your day.

The Low Anthem- To Ohio

School of Seven Bells

You’re going to read over and over about how Ben Curtis was once in another band, and how his new project isn’t so much a departure from the band, as a reinvigoration of the sound. Truth be told the new direction pays off as SoSB attacks you with lush walls of sound that are both all-consuming, and endearing.

School of Seven Bells- Iamundernodisguise (alternate version)

Blitzen Trapper

If I need to explain to you why you should be trying to see Blitzen Trapper you’re on the wrong site, maybe you got here by accident while searching for Drake tracks.

Blitzen Trapper- Black River Killer

Avett Brothers

These North Carolina bread nuevo-bluegrass players are poised for a major breakthrough with their Rick Rubin produced album on the horizon. Catch’em before they succumb to Kings of Leonittis.

Avett Brothers- I and Love and You

Dr. Dog

I’ve yet to meet a musician that wasn’t in love with this band, and it’s hard not to agree with them. Revisionist 60’s pysch-pop that lures you into a state of jubilance.

Dr. Dog- Heart it Races (AiH cover)

Phoenix

Should you try and catch a group of French rockers who tinge everything with a dose of electro-pop, and put out an album of the year candidate? Are you dense?

Phoenix- Rome

Daniel Johnston

I once saw DJ play a packed New Years eve show where he covered “Band On The Run” at the stroke of midnight, you probably won’t be as lucky, but any moment with the man is special.

Daniel Johnston- True Love Will find You In The End

Andrew Bird

There always seems to be something special about a live Andrew Bird performance, hearing his exquisitely crafted chamber pop in an open area would be like lucking into the opportunity to watchAlbert Puljols bat in a close game. You’re not sure it’s going to blow you away, but you know you’re in for a memorable experience.

Andrew Bird- Imotosis

Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Here’s what to expect:
They will be loud.
You are going to fall for/fear Karen O.
They’re going to murder Kings of Leon sound, and experience wise.
You won;t be as crowded because everyone will be at KOL.

Yeah Yeah Yeahs- Hysteria

Who not to see:

I bet you could tell I’m not too hot Kings of Leon.

After Show to catch:

Broken Social Scene in an abandoned Power Plant, I’m not going to say anymore.

Broken Social Scene- 7/4 Shoreline