I have never been to Pitchfork Music Fest before. Once I heard some of the lineup, I knew I had to change that. My first impressions were, I didn't like the layout as much as Riot Fest. They definitely needed more beer tents. The lines for beer tickets and beer were ridiculously long. I avoided them like the plague. The only act I really wanted to see tonight was Beck. I decided to get there early, and check out a few other bands though. Honestly, I may as well have stayed at home a bit longer. I walked in just in time to catch a few songs from Sharon Van Etten. I may have to explore her music more. She had a very pretty voice, and great singer/songwriter vibe going. I wish I heard more. The next I heard was SZA. I don't know what to say about her. I wasn't impressed, so left. The next band I checked out was Avey Tare's Slasher Flicks. The best way I can describe it is by using my term bleepy bloppy music. I was not a fan. I left once again, after hearing a few songs. A friend later described it as what must be a practical joke. I don't think my friend is too far off. The last I act I saw before Beck was a dj set by Giorgio Moroder. He was a big player in the disco scene, apparently. Most recently, he won a Grammy for his work with Daft Punk, on their latest album. It was a lot of old disco songs, but with a modern house/techno beat behind it. I wish they had left good enough alone.
Finally! At long last, it was time for Beck! Beck is the main reason I bought tickets for Pitchfork. I saw him 17yrs ago, when I was a senior in high school. The Roots (of Jimmy Fallon fame) and Atari Teenage Riot opened for him. Being raised in Indiana, I didn't have much exposure to different music. It was mostly Top 40, country and classic rock. I was blown away by all three bands, and it made me realize there was more out there. I remember that being such a great concert. I was a little worried Beck wouldn't live up to my memories from 17 years ago. The minute Beck Hanson stepped onstange, those worries were cast away. He opened up with a guitar heavy version of "Devil's Haircut" I believe that was the same song he opened with 17 yrs ago. One of the best words to describe his performance was balanced. He had a balanced set, played something from every album. It was also a good mix of rockers and ballads. I forgot what a great and engaging performer and frontman Beck is. With his crazy dance moves, I would describe him as a quirkier Mick Jagger. He can command the crowd almost as well as Jagger. I absolutely love the Stones, so that is saying a lot. He closed the set (somewhat predictably) with "Where it's At" but changed things up with a harmonica break in the middle. The crowd went crazy, and ate it all up. I HIGHLY recommend you see Beck if you get a chance. I'd easily rank this as the best performance I've ever seen at a fest!
I'm looking forward to day two! I can't wait to see St. Vincent!
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