Image by chickswithguns
After spending three days at the sold out Coachella Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California with 80,000 people last weekend, I can honestly say there were some amazing bands, inventive art installations and memorable moments.
Below are some of my favorite acts each day of the festival. Video clips I recorded from the shows are included.
My Rating System
* Boring Performance
* * OK, But Lackluster
* * * Excellent Performance
* * * * Super Star-Worthy
Day One: Friday had the most bands I wanted to see. And, thankfully, most of them exceeded my expectations for an all-around great first day.
My Rating: * * *
One of the first bands we saw over the weekend, Hockey, came ready to rock and was a solid score to start the day. You never know what you’re going to get when you see a band for the first time and they were terrific. Hockey was filled with energy and a fresh sound that brought thousands to the Gobi tent early in the afternoon on Friday.
My Rating: *
I had read about this band in the Alternative Press and thought they’d be a good act to check out, but unfortunately, their performance was boring. They could play their instruments well, but the crowd was mellow and people stayed for a few songs, then left. I’d like to see this band again in a smaller venue, the Mojave tent may have been a bit too much for them.
My Rating: * *
This folksy act seemed perfect for an Anthropologie advertisement or something. They were fun, indie and earthy. I’ll admit, the main appeal was Zoe Deschanel, who has a ridiculously amazing voice, but their music wasn’t really Coachella caliber. Would I see them again? Maybe if Anthro hosts them at a live show/store wide sale, otherwise, probably not.
My Rating: * * * *
Masters of electro-pop-rock, Passion Pit was by far one of the top performances at Coachella this year. They had a solid sound and lights set up, and they knew how to connect with their audience without being too talkative or gimmicky. They attracted tens of thousands of people — and not just by making them want to dance, it was an entertaining live show.
My Rating: * *
Unfortunately, one of my favorite pop singers did not have a good concert at Coachella compared to her recent show at Webster Hall in NYC. As much as it saddens me to say it, La Roux’s talent was marred by the horrific sound system in the Gobi tent. The bass was too loud, the vocals were too low — and she seemed nervous. They also should have put her in a larger tent because everyone wanted to see her and was clawing their way to the front.
My Rating: * * *
There’s a reason why Vampire Weekend is a mainstay on the Billboard charts. Not that I put too much emphasis on that, but they were simply pleasant. People danced, sang and enjoyed their performance on the Outdoor Theater stage. It was also interesting that they sounded exactly the same live as on their album.
Jay-Z
My Rating: * * * *
Jay-Z is a megastar and married to Beyonce. He is the epitome of cool. From the LCD stage set up and music video-style camera work on the jumbo screens, to his duet with his uber-talented wife — his show was hard to top at Coachella 2010. Need I say more?
Day Two: Though Saturday had less acts I’d planned on seeing, the second day brought a different type of excitement, the discovery of new performers I will be adding to my music collection.
My Rating: * * *
I’d never heard this band before I saw them on the main stage last Saturday. They’re a Brooklyn band that could hold their own against any of the other more well-known acts we saw like Vampire Weekend or Phoenix. They will be added to my indie play list for sure.
My Rating: * * *
I first heard Band of Skulls on the New Moon Soundtrack and was even more into them after hearing their hard edge sound, tempered by their catchy lyrics during their Coachella concert. They walk the tightrope between real nineties alternative and pop rock in a dynamic way that’s surprising.
My Rating: *
This band interested me because they seemed like one of those funky bands you just have to see live. Unfortunately, their band was stuck in Europe due to the volcano eruption in Iceland. I’d have to see them again, only having two band members and the bad sound of the Gobi stage, made for a rough show.
My Rating: * * * *
For some reason I was the last person at Coachella to hear of Gossip — since everyone else was already there once I arrived at Mojave stage. Mixing soul and punk (yes, really) to create one of the best performances of the weekend, Gossip, was incredible. They were better live, than their recordings. Must. See. Again.
My Rating: *
This was my second time seeing Coheed at Coachella and this time they were on the main stage. Still not a fan. It was clever of them to bring up the USC Marching Band though. They are good performers, but not for me.
My Rating: * *
Mid-show, sometime after Danny DeVito ran across stage with his shirt open, I realized I’d heard many songs by Faith No More, but while they were on stage I felt confused. They are hard rock, but the lead singer was wearing a red suit that looked like it was borrowed from the Golden Girls and he carried a cane briefly. However, in the words of the great Wayne Campell, Mike Patton can “wail.” Really.
Muse
My Rating: * * * *
Best. Show. Ever. I saw Muse in San Diego at Soma and in New York at Madison Square Garden, their performance at Coachella topped both previous concerts. They are an exquisite band with talent that will go down in rock history. Plus, they have so many amazing songs and in this concert, Muse really stepped up their LCD display, lights, lasers, fireworks and guitar solos. Enough said.
Day Three: The final day of Coachella is a challenge for the bands and concertgoers alike. After long days in the sun and nights partying in the campground, people are sleepy and have shorter attention spans. Yet, there were a few acts that persevered and put on exciting shows for fans despite dehydration and ringing ears had by all.
My Rating: *
This nineties act landed the main stage in early afternoon on Sunday. They would have been better suited on a smaller stage later at night. They had high energy, enthusiasm and were obviously seasoned performers, but the audience was too spread out and tired as they sat on the grass for the concert.
My Rating: * * *
Despite sluggish concertgoers, Matt & Kim woke people up with hilarious commentary in between songs and upbeat tunes that embody the Brooklyn music scene. The duo knew how to get laughs and cheers, even more so when a streaker hit the stage. Plus, they were the type of people you hoped to meet later in line for water or while waiting to get a falafel.
My Rating: *
The only way I’d listen to Club 75 again, is if I have ear plugs and get to stand 100 feet away. The sound was really messed up on the Sahara stage. I thought my ears were going to start bleeding. What a disappointment.
Julian Casablancas
My Rating: * * *
I had no expectations for this show because I wasn’t sure what kind of music Julian Casablancas would play solo. I adore the Strokes, but knew nothing about their lead singer. I’ll admit my favorite song he played was by the Strokes, but his other stuff was good too. My interest was peaked, I’ll be checking out more of his solo stuff.
My Rating: * * *
These guys put on a solid, fun concert. They drew tens of thousands even though they weren’t on the main stage. They were an impressive act to see live because people could dance, sing along and hang out.
My Rating: *
This electronica dance diva was near the top of my list to see on Sunday. However, the curse of the Gobi stage got her and the sound was terrible. Little Boots had a psychedelic laser show, but the poor sound quality was distracting and made for low energy among the crowd.
Thom Yorke
My Rating: * *
Maybe I was just tired at this point, but Thom Yorke would have been better suited for earlier in the day. He has a voice that drips with sincerity and moving lyrics, but at the end of a three day festival, I needed something more upbeat by this point. Although, watching Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers play bass was entertaining. All in all, he was amazing, but I’d rather watch his band Radiohead in a three day festival scenario.
My Rating: *
This band was supposed to end the weekend on a high note, but Gorillaz totally fell flat. I would NOT have paid money to see this show, the only good part about it were the animations. None of the rappers like Mos Def and Snoop were present and they ended on a slow, depressing song. Gorillaz should not headline and end a festival. Ever.
To recap, some of the most awesome acts were a mix of super star musicians like Muse and Jay-Z, but there was also a strong showing by smaller acts like Gossip and Passion Pit. I cannot wait until next year’s event.
My advice to you for Coachella 2011? Go.
worst reviews EVAH!!!
That’s unfortunate about Little Boots…I’m a big fan…
Festivals are tough because we want to see and review as many acts as possible. Luckily, these weren’t the only concerts I’ve ever seen. At least we can agree on the vegan naanwich.
I think it’s funny that you consider Muse a “Superstar Act” and somehow managed to miss reviewing some of the most influential musicians in rock