DAY 1 HIGHLIGHTS
Young the Giant
I downloaded their self-titled album after hearing their single "My Body," and I was glad I did. The energetic, unique sounds of this five-man band required that I head to Grant Park alone in order to make the 1pm show. I got a decent spot with other Young lovers to catch the opening, "I Got", which immediately pumped up the crowd. Other favorites: Garands, Cough Syrup, Guns Out.
Foster the people
By now, most of you have probably heard "Pumped Up Kicks". But I have to say the rest of the album Torches is a must hear. Each song adds different sections of electronics and they're all upbeat and fun. While I was a little disappointed in the sound quality, they still put on a great performance and played some of my favorites: Helena Beat, Waste, and Call it What You Want.
Muse
I was a latecomer to the Muse trend, not catching on until their latest album Resistance, 2009, but it wasn't long after that before I acquired their entire discography and fell in love with the complexity of their albums. Well if you like Muse on album, you will LOVE Muse live. Rocking hard on all the instruments, cool lighting, they do WAY more than just play the studio track. They had an amazing set list including favorites: Starlight, Resistance, Uprising, Undisclosed Desires, Knights of Cydonia, and Butterflies & Hurricanes.
DAY 2 HIGHLIGHTS
Local Natives
Described by some as psych folk, this is a little more chill than Muse, but it was definitely at the top of my Saturday line up after listening to their only album, Gorilla Manor. They put on an entertaining show by switching up instruments and lead singers on some songs and every second you can tell they were putting their entire heart and soul into the music. It's amazing how much appreciation you gain for a band by experiencing it live. For example, Kelcey dedicated the song "Airplanes" to his mother, and "Sun Hands" was a moment where the crowd sang together and the band rocked out in the instrumental section. The band also announced they were in studios for their next album, which I'm very much looking forward to. Other favorites: Wide Eyes, Warning Sign.
The Glitch Mob
In between other bands, we would hit up "Perry's" a football size tent where the electronic/DJ artists played. We happened to catch Glitch Mob, a three man band, which has now become one of my favorite in the electronic arena. They have a unique electronic sound with multidimensional songs that are sure to get you moving. Favorite songs all from the Drink the Sea album: Fortune Days, Animus Vox, and Fistful of Silence.
DAY 3 HIGHLIGHTS
Lia Ices
Sunday morning I decided to go see Noah and the Whale on one of the main stages. On the way I happened to pass a small stage in the trees where a beautiful female voice caught my attention. I didn't even think twice about missing Noah and the Whale. I had to hear more. So I veered into the shade to enjoy 30 minutes of Lia Ices. The fact that this happens is one best things about Lollapalooza. Her voice is reminiscent of Fiona Apple or an "upbeat Nora Jones". Songs to check out: "Half Life" and "Daphne".
Dale Earnhardt Jr Jr
The band came out in full NASCAR jumpsuit attire and within the first song stripped into shirts that said "Your Ad Here". They followed this act with a bubble machine, drum core clad in skeleton masks, a horn and violin section, and jumping performance all around. Definitely something to check out! Favorites: Simple Girl, Morning Thought, and Skeletons.
This blog could probably go on for ever. From seeing Cage the Elephant in rain followed by dancing in mud pits to Damien Marley & NAS, to some big names Eminem, The Cars, Foo Fighters, and Kid Cudi, and plenty of others, Lollapolooza 2011 made for a great 3 days! I highly recommend people hit up some music festivals next season. Learn about the bands that will be there, have an idea of what you want to see, but don't be afraid to make some impromptu decisions and be open and let the music rock you. That's all for now.
peace & love.
- C.
peace & love.
- C.
