So 2014’s ACL is right around the Thursday corner. Lucky for you, I’m here with Bryan to show you the way to a successful outing this first weekend. While he and I are both committed to showing you the bands you might accidentally miss during an early stop at Torchy’s, I’m not afraid to give you pointers on which reunion show can’t be passed by. Read on, partner.
Listed chronologically:
1. Young & Sick – Fri @ 11:30am Miller Lite Stage
This L.A.-based project from Dutch artist Nick Van Hofwegen lives up to its name, crafting icy compressed dance hits that I can’t help but shake a booty to.
2. Temples – Fri @ 1:15pm Miller Lite Stage
Stick around after Young & Sick to catch 60s-retro rock and rollers a la Tame Impala and Foxygen. Jangly 12-strings and punchy Paul McCartney bass drift over phased drums.
3. Ana Tijoux – Fri @ 4:15pm Sculpture Stage
Our first international recommendation, the French-Chilean singer gives us sexy foreign vibes that aren’t afraid to make a statement. The song below was even in Breaking Bad. Convinced yet?
4. OutKast – Fri @ 8:15pm Honda Stage
::drops mic::
5. The Rosebuds – Sat @ 1:30pm Miller Lite Stage
This North Carolina group recently collaborated with Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon and created an indie-folk masterpiece. But you don’t have to take my word for it; Vernon says it’s “…some of the most important music in the world.”
6. Rey Pila – Sat @ 2:30pm BMI Stage
Mexico City’s Rey Pila gives us some 80s-inspired dance pop that isn’t too far from the Cars or Gary Numan and the whole New Wave cast.
7. tUnE-yArDs – Sat @ 3:30pm RetailMeNot Stage
Merrill Garbus is sure to fulfill your multi-tracking loop fetish as she layers her voice with danceable precision.
8. WILDCARD**** Lana Del Rey Sat – @ 6:30pm Samsung Galaxy Stage
Here’s my wildcard pick. Being such a polarizing figure, Lana Del Rey is begging us to see her and hates that we love her…or maybe it’s the other way around?
9. The Districts – Sun @ 12:15pm Samsung Galaxy Stage
This Philly-based quartet is something Bryan and I can agree on, seeing as they overlap between our two recommended lists. They are driving their own goddamned van into town as you read this article.
10. The Replacements – Sun @ 6:00pm Samsung Galaxy Stage
Maybe another guilty pleasure, this reunion tour seems to be the real deal, hearing how Paul Westerberg’s vocals still kick. They might be more “Dad-esque” at this point, but that doesn’t mean we can’t pump a fist, right? Remember when “Unsatisfied” played in Airheads?
