So it poured most of the day, but it didnt seem to damped anyone spirits. And those of us that are used to East Coast festivals are surely not afraid of a little downpour! The festival was packed. A few people at some of the stages complained about the sound quality (the bass was way too heavy for Bell X1). And the new beautiful grassy lawn (Kentucky bluegrass, I think) was reduced to alot of mud.
Some acts that stood out for me: Felice Brothers was raucous, Bon Iver was stirring. I was curious to see what his live show was going to be like. I loved it. Citizen Cope’s set was great and packed despite the way the skies opened up. It was good to see the Levon Helm band - although on doctor’s orders, Levon didn’t sing, but daughter Amy sure did.
Another band I had not seen live before was Devotchka, and it was amazing. Like a trip around the world. Complete with a beautiful acrobat doing daring feats on giant long scarfs above the stage. Like a like bit of circus.
I ended my night with the beats and light shows of Ghostland Observatory rather that the Dave Matthews band . The sounds on both stages were pretty loud and they tended to drown each other out a little if you were in the back. But it was trance-like and a since they’re from Austin, the crowd was happy to see thee.
I did not go today, day 3, but I bet it’s nothing short of amazing.
Citizen Cope in the pouring rain
