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The Smashing Pumpkins
One of the world’s biggest and most successful alternative rock bands, Smashing Pumpkins make their Forecastle debut on the 15th anniversary of their 1995 classic – “Mellon Collie And The Infinite Sadness” – the best selling double-album in US History. Mixing a densely layered sound with a barrage of metallic guitar, psychedelia, and jazz dynamics, their headlining appearance on Saturday night is not to be missed.
The Flaming Lips
Wayne Coyne may enjoy the inside of his human-sized plastic bubble, but the music of The Flaming Lips is anything but contained. They’ve always been a band without boundaries ~ known for their lush, multi-layered, psychedelic arrangements, sweet melodies, spacey lyrics, and elaborate, over-the-top live shows. If ordinary is desired, sit this one out. Otherwise, dust off the ol’ penguin costume and get weird. The Lips are ready to make their Forecastle debut.
Widespread Panic
Widespread Panic may be one of the highest-grossing touring bands in the world, but that shaves nothing from their rock credibility. Their continuous evolution, while remaining true to the roots they’ve planted in blues, jazz and southern tradition, has allowed them to expand their prowess and appeal. “We love Forecastle,” said Panic keyboardist JoJo Hermann, “We will definitely be back.” And so they’ve returned.
Spoon
Brit Daniels has carefully crafted the indie-rock band Spoon’s reliably alluring, taut rock-n-roll sound that has defined their career for nearly two decades. This year, they are celebrating the release of their latest record, Transference, which offers nothing less than the methodological brilliance that has come to be expected from Spoon.
DEVO
One of new wave’s most innovative and successful bands, DEVO is back to sport their hazmat suits and signature “Energy Domes” for a new generation, DEVO is touring the country bringing back 1980s classics such as “Whip It” and “Secret Agent Man” as well as new music from their latest album, Something for Everybody that resonates the same venerated, funky style, that has made them a cultural sensation.
CAKE
Hailing from California’s fertile Central Valley, this Sacramento band has attracted the kind of ecstatic response most newcomers only dream of and seasoned veterans justifiably envy. Based almost entirely on the strength of their live performances and on word of mouth, CAKE has built up a sizable following that is fast billowing out of the northern California region in a reckless eastward expansion.
She & Him
She & Him make music for an eternal springtime, when the temperature is warm enough to go riding with the top (or at least the windows) rolled down and the radio turned up. They occupy an alternate universe where the saddest of songs feel as warm as sun showers; the rain may be coming down, but somewhere nearby, everything looks bright. What began as a fascinating, no-strings attached collaboration evolved into a bona fide, touring band, and She & Him are here to stay. Zooey Deschanel and Matt Ward are as comfortable and complementary a musical pair as Les Paul and Mary Ford.
Drive-By Truckers
Flaunting a mix of Southern pride, erudite lyrics, and a muscled three-guitar attack, Drive-By Truckers became one of the most well-respected alternative country-rock acts of the 2000s. Led by frontman Patterson Hood and comprising a rotating cast of Georgia and Alabama natives, the band celebrated the South while refusing to paint over its spotty past. History, folklore, politics, and character studies all shared equal space in the Truckers catalog.
Bassnectar
It’s as if Bassnectar was made to play Forecastle Festival: a musical project born from the core belief that music is art, and that championing a cause with music creates unparalleled synergy. Lorin Ashton is in many ways, a madman–swimming in a sea of hair that envelopes him as his music captivates audiences. His finely honed craft creates a unique electronic magnetism, oftentimes trimmed in a gritty, yet whimsical, carnival-like spirit, guaranteed to make revelers cut-loose and lose themselves in the fervor and passion for life that Ashton exudes.
Cirque Berzerk (Los Angeles Circus)
Cirque Bzerek “Los Angeles Circus” is an innovative, fiery, caberat extravaganza combining aerial acrobatics, clowning, and other traditional circus performances with punk rock and burlesque influences. Cirque Berzerk has been entertaining audiences since 2005, with their signature spin on contemporary circus theater. It’s an event that’s been described as a circus on acid: French burlesque meets Sweeney Todd meets Cirque du Soliel and P.T. Barnum’s worst nightmare. Forecastle will be the first major festival in the country to host them, apart from Burning Man.
Umphrey’s McGee
Like true sons of the American Midwest, Umphrey’s McGee has risen to the upper echelons of the improvisational-rock scene through their seamless compositing of diverse musical influences, from progressive-rock to metal to funk to folk to jazz-fusion to classic song-based rock-and roll, all woven together with infectious melodies, thought-provoking lyrics, pristine harmonies, blistering musicianship, and rollicking grooves.
The Sustainable Living Roadshow
The Sustainable Living Roadshow is a caravan of educators, entertainers and activists coordinating cross country tours that empower communities and individuals to utilize sustainable strategies for a healthier planet. Based in California, the roadshow visits university campuses and community events across the United States, encompassing a fleet of non-petroleum based renewable fuel vehicles. At each stop, the caravan sets up experiential learning-village’s, featuring workshops, speakers, and entertainment.
Against Me!
Following their 2007 album New Wave (which Spin Magazine named Album of the Year), Gainesville, Florida natives Against Me! explore a fresh side to songwriting on their newest album, White Crosses. Churning out a distinctive blend of punk, rock, and even folk that is impossible to label, they have toured all 50 states and foreign lands from Iceland to Australia, forging an intense connection with their growing legions of fans.
Minus the Bear
Minus the Bear is the Seattle-based band defined by their ability to produce a unique, indie influenced sound accented by rock-n-rock and sensual funk grooves. Their sound involves a mix of pele-esque guitar-taps and electronics, with a Don Cab-esque sophistication of composition. Their new record OMNI maintains this inimitable sound and vision that is guaranteed to gratify any live audience. “One of the things we wanted to do was capture more of the live energy. We feel like the live show is really where you get to see what we’re doing,” said guitarist Dave Knudson.
Manchester Orchestra
Manchester Orchestra is a five-part American rock band from Atlanta, Georgia led by vocalist Andy Hull, whose vocals rings pure and honest, gently sharing eloquent stories of hope, loss, and love. Andy provides an intelligent mouthpiece for his generation, providing the words that will surely be scrawled lovingly within the cover of spiral-notebooks across the nation. Their newest album, Mean Everything to Nothing, is an elaborate, collaborative project that confirms the evolution this young band has encountered through touring and performing.
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals are a band that produce a timeless, organic brand of American rock & roll. Their 70s hard-rock sound, combined with bluesy grooves and soulful vocals, draw comparisons to the likes of Janis Joplin and The Band. Perhaps their greatest asset is the ability to transcend genres, and create a natural sense of dynamics and a palate containing all the useful colors, and these qualities allow them to stretch out onstage, to riveting effect.
The New Deal
Founded in 1998 by three longtime members of the Toronto music scene, the New Deal fused electronic music with live improvisation at a time when parallel developments were occurring elsewhere on the continent. Through relentless touring, the band quickly built a strong following among jam band fans, ravers, and fellow musicians. The band’s music, an organic mix of house rhythms, burbling synthesizers, and melodically repetitive bass parts, is almost entirely improvised, though many songs have crystallized from jam sessions and worked their way into the band’s repertoire.
Lucero
Adding a Southern flavor to their love of the indie folk-pop of Ida, Memphis alt-country rockers Lucero have suffered the turbulence that comes with the indie scene, but their story of perseverance and survival is triumphant. Formed by leader Ben Nichols in the late ’90s, Lucero took their name from the Spanish word meaning “bright star. Ben Nichols and Brian Venable wanted to put a new spin on country music by adding punk flavors. Venable said early on that he wanted to be able to give punk rockers a run for their money by playing hardcore country music. Much to Venable’s surprise, many fans of punk rock accepted the band as one of their own.
Cap‘n Jazz
Short-lived but highly influential, Cap’n Jazz helped transform emo from a deeply underground punk subgenre into a more widely accepted subset of indie rock. Cap’n Jazz’s main contribution was stylistic – along with Pinkerton-era Weezer, they helped shift emo’s always-elusive musical focus from post-hardcore prog-punk to an arty but more accessible punk-pop. They’ve reunited to celebrate the re-release of their hit album, Analphabetapolothology, performing select dates in an attempt to recreate and reaffirm their role in music history.
Modern English
The summery hooks and warm lyrics of Modern English’s biggest hit, “I Melt With You,” gave listeners the impression that the band was an upbeat pop act in the early ’80s. “I Melt With You” was actually an anomaly in Modern English’s early discography. Inspired by the stylish gloom of Bauhaus and Joy Division, Modern English released the singles “Swans on Glass” and “Gathering Dust” before recording their 1981 debut LP Mesh & Lace. A year later, the group streamlined their sound, dropping much of Mesh & Lace’s gothic experimentation on After the Snow. “I Melt With You” was included on the Valley Girl soundtrack, and its video became an MTV staple.
Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
For most of the ’90s, Ted Leo sang for the punky DC rock band Chisel, becoming a bit of an indie icon as the passionate gravel-voiced mouthpiece for the group’s raw soul politics. 2003 appeared to be the year of the Ted Leo, who ushered in the year by playing a tribute to his fallen hero Joe Strummer, and has since gone on to sell out numerous shows, festivals, and TV appearences, all on the strength of his magnificent Lookout! album Hearts of Oak. Now recording for Matador Records, they released their latest album this year. The Brutalist Bricks, which is comprised of rhythm, soul, hard-rock and indie roots, exemplifies the unique style they’ve maintained throughout their career.
EOTO
Born as a side project to The String Cheese Incident, EOTO creates exclusively improvisational jams infused with electro-like beats. Comprised of Jason Hann and Michael Travis and their array of musical instruments, they mix and remix beats to create an ever-evolving auditory experience that extends far beyond the reach of ears.
Joe Purdy
Joe Purdy, a singer/songwriter from Arkansas, put in his time working at a loading dock and as a counselor at a private high school before his song “Wash Away” became synonymous with the 2004 season of ABC’s Lost. Purdy left Arkansas for California in 2001, where he learned how to play the piano and began writing songs. He went on to record several homemade albums, breaking into the L.A. music scene with 2003’s StompinGrounds.
Sara Watkins of Nickel Creek
Sara Watkins has made a name for herself on the music forefront as part of Nickel Creek, a Grammy Award-winning acoustic bluegrass band. She has recently been exploring a new path as a solo songwriter and fiddle player. Her self-titled, debut solo album, produced by John Paul Jones, is strongly influenced by her bluegrass roots and has been met with considerable success.
Dar Williams
Dar Williams is a familiar face to folk festival frequenters. Her music style is profound, yet subdued. She says of her work, “I wanted the songs to sound simple and down to what they were meant to be, which is hard to do. It takes a lot of knowledge to get to the point where you can say what you need to say — no more, no less.”
Scott Miller and the Commonwealth
Scott Miller blends folk and rock like there ain’t no words for. The power of storytelling with the power of a compressed electric guitar comes through this Virginian not heard since the likes of Wayne Newton (fellow Virginian) or The Statler Brothers (also of the Commonwealth.) Not even since Thomas Jefferson (Virginian) and Woodrow Wilson (another Virginian) formed their rock trio with drummer Stewart Copeland (northern Virginian) “League of Nations”.
Cloud Cult
Cloud Cult is an experimental indie rock band from Minneapolis, Minnesota. The band’s founder and singer Craig Minowa has a degree in Environmental Science, and his environmental, political, and social awareness is reflected in much of Cloud Cult’s music. The band’s self-created non-profit record label, Earthology Records, uses the most environmentally friendly methods available to ensure minimum damage to the environment. In addition, the group has pushed pushed the conventions of rock concerts by introducing “live painting” to their sets, auctioned off upon the show’s conclusion.
we were promised jetpacks
Following closely in the footsteps of The Twilight Sad and Frightened Rabbit, We Were Promised Jetpacks are yet another hugely talented young Scottish band. They offer a unique brand of indie/punk-rock, accompanied with the occasional reggae-inspired melody and unmistakably Scottish affect. Their most recent work, an EP entitled The Last Place You’ll Look, has sent them touring in the US for the second time, indulging audiences with their powerful, intensely driven rhythms.
Dead Confederate
Arguably the most sonically powerful act in the burgeoning psychedelia- dosed scene in Atlanta,GA, Dead Confederate may represent a harbinger of a new rise of psychedelic rock. The South has produced some of the most eclectic rock ‘n’ roll ever recorded; James Brown, Stax Records, Allman Brothers and R.E.M. are all products of the mysticism of the South, and Dead Confederate is one of the first southern bands to pull southern rock into the realm of modern music.
Break Science
Adam Deitch is the mastermind behind the innovative, genre collaborative project, Break Science. The combination of electronic beats and drums, coupled with a hip-hop feel, produces the unique sound that Break Science has cultivated and trademarked. The live band features some of the most highly acclaimed hip-hop artists today, including Matisyahu, Wyclef, and Talib Kweli.
Treasure Fingers
For the past two years, the DJ and producer born Ashley Jones has been making it rain in the disco with innovative remixes and original tracks. Jones is far from a new jack, having racked up over a decade of international club experience and studio chops as part of the beloved drum & bass group, Evol Intent. Yet as Treasure Fingers, he’s found a way to merge his diverse influences and deep history into a signature sound, packed with intricate basslines, chopped-up, gritty synth melodies, and party-ready drum breaks. It’s already captured the ears of everyone from rock groups to A-Trak, who quickly signed Treasure Fingers to his tastemaking label Fool’s Gold.
Foxy Shazam
Foxy Shazam is a fresh face in the music scene, who made their commercial debut when featured on this year’s Super Bowl. Although most may know little about them, lead singer Eric Sean Nalley is sure to entice interest with his flamboyant stage presence and high-pitched vocals that hearken back to the days when Freddy Mercury rocked the world. Check them out Saturday night on Forecastle’s East Stage.
Margot and the Nuclear So and So’s
The dreamy, bittersweet world of Margot & the Nuclear So and So’s is the brainchild of singer/songwriter Richard Edwards, who formed the eight-piece indie rock collective in his native Indianapolis. Named after the Margot Tenenbaum character in Wes Anderson’s sophisticated comedy The Royal Tenenbaums, the band took root in 2004, when Edwards decided to flesh out his scenic chamber pop sound with help from Andy Fry, Jesse Lee, Emily Watkins, Hubert Glover, Chris Fry, Casey Tennis, and Tyler Watkins.
Mucca Pazza
Mucca Pazza, the 30-member punk marching band, is anything but ordinary. Conceived by composer Mark Messing, this unusual performance has had a presence in the festival scene for over four years. Their repertoire ranges from Balkan-brass to covers of 60’s television show themes as well as themes from Shostakovich and Bartok. They have performed nationally at many well known venues and concerts including McCarren Park Pool, True/False Film Festival, Looptopia, Lollapalooza, Rothbury Music Festival, Tour de Fat, and were featured on Late Night with Conan O’Brien in 2006.
BoomBox
BoomBox is the collaboration of two vibrant artists, Russ Randolph and Zion Rock Godchaux. This pair of dynamic artists uses their rich musical history and their vision of music and popular culture to deliver a style of music distinctly different from anything heard or seen in music today. This signature sound and show brings live music to a new, elevated level. The group will be making their Forecastle debut Sunday night on the Ocean Stage.
Papadosio
Papadosio is no ordinary jam band. Inspired by electronic roots, combined with modern dance feel and timeless originality, Papadosio has created quite a buzz and become a must-see live performance. The music is all about unexpected combinations. From Rock/House to Jazz/Hop to Dub/Breaks and so on, every song has a unique approach to attaining originality. Long improvisational interludes and vocal harmonies quickly set this group in a new category of mass appeal.
Mimosa
Mimosa takes the listener on a space age psychedelic journey of bittersweet ecstasy. Only a two year veteren of the west coast sound movement, Mimosa is quickly making a name for himself as one of the top west coast exports. This young producer’s energy while performing is magnetic; the word has spread fast and Mimosa has recently shared the stage with the likes Benga, Skream, Rusko, Datsik, Glitch Mob, ill.gates, Bassnectar and Flying Lotus, playing shows across the US and festivals like Coachella, Symbiosis Gathering, Burning Man and Decibel Festival.
Ana Sia
Characterized by her raw, electro-beats and passion for making people dance, Ana Sia has become one of today’s most established female DJs. Her funky style, combined with the high-energy delivery of dirty beats, will keep the crowd mesmerized in her music. Her love of dance music combined with an innate understanding of the value of dance to the human soul collectively fuse to create unforgettable sets of experience, whether she is slamming spots in her hometown of San Francisco or taking her turn in the forests of music festivals around the country.
Savoy
Colorado-based SAVOY’s rock edged, yet club-geared releases, along with their notoriously high energy live shows have spawned a hybrid dance culture of its own. In just under a year and a half, the live electro-house trio has made a name for itself by effectively bridging the gap between the concert venue rocker and the club-bangin’ partier – and the result is a rapidly emerging new market that can’t seem to get enough. In such a short period of time, SAVOY has truly established themselves as not only talented producers but as innovators of live electronic music.
Big Gigantic
Boulder, Colorado’s Big Gigantic got their start touring with the likes of STS9 and Bassnectar. By combining the elements of electronic DJ with a live band, they have created a pulsating sound with harmonious melodies and a touch of saxophone based jazz. The group will be making their Forecastle debut Friday evening aboard the Belle of Louisville with Ana Sia.
Company Of Thieves
Company of Thieves are rooted in Chicago, IL, where vocalist Genevieve Schatz and guitarist Marc Walloch launched the co-ed indie rock group after striking up a friendship at Union Station. Mike Ortiz climbed aboard to handle drum duties, and the trio formed a unique sound that embraced both Fiona Apple’s articulate songwriting and Denali’s altera-rock muscle. “There’s a new, gutsy energy coming out right now, almost a generational thing. Today’s youth are really wanting a change, and there’s a feeling that we’re at the edge of big change right now. Great art always rises up when change is going one,” said singer Genevieve Schatz.
Greenskeepers
Greenskeepers was founded in 1999 by childhood friends James Curd and Nick Maurer. Their first release was “Whats Your Man Got To Do WIth Gan” on Classic Records. The stand out song on the EP was “Low and Sweet”, which was named one of the “Festive Fifty” by British DJ John Peel. In early 2001 Maurer and Curd went in the studio together to record the single “Should I Sing Like This?”, which became an international club hit. After its success, Maurer moved to Germany and Curd collaborated with many other artists who shared his love of electronic music.
Two Fresh
Two Fresh is a three-piece electronic group that delivers a raw, cutting edge sound combined with a hip-hop and jazz styles. Founded in Nashville, TN, they are a new face to the electronic music scene, but are quickly capturing the attention of audiences around the nation.
Heavyweight Dub Champion
“Heavyweight Dub Champion restores all hope” says KRS-ONE. Founded in a log cabin at 9,000 feet in the mountains of Colorado, and now based in San Francisco, California, Heavyweight Dub Champion is a movement of interdimensional warriors representing the Army of the Last Champion. Firmly rooted in hip hop, dancehall, dub and electronic music, and performed on more than 50 channels of vintage analog and digital gear, the band has gained much notoriety and a growing following from its high-intensity and visually captivating live performances.
Paper Route
Blending digital-age pop/rock with ambient electronics, the Nashville-based Paper Route had their start in the summer of 2004, when Chad Howat began staying up all night in his apartment while making music with a variety of instruments and programmed samples. From late July through August 2008, Paper Route was part of the Final Riot Tour, with Paramore, Phantom Planet, and Jack’s Mannequin. They have also toured with Copeland, Passion Pit, and She Wants Revenge. Paste magazine deemed Paper Route an artist to watch.
Jukebox the Ghost
Jukebox The Ghost are three friends, Ben Thornewill on piano, Tommy Siegel on guitar and Jesse Kristin on rhythm. Bouncing out of Washington D.C. two years ago, Jukebox The Ghost purvey classic ebony and ivory pop, flavoured with their own brand of quirky lyrics and inventive song writing. Since the bands birth they have been writing and touring non stop, determined to bring their music to the masses the good old fashioned way; by doing everything themselves. It seems to have paid off. Over 250 shows world-wide, with the likes of Ben Folds, Tokyo Police Club, Adam Green, Ra Ra Riot, Jenny Owen Youngs, and more.
Morning Teleportation
Born in Portland, Oregan, Morning Teleportation is a five-piece psychedelic band that creates high-energy, tripped-out dance-off and sing-along using energetic instrumentation that includes banjo, talkbox, synthesizer, trumpet, and theremin. Their debut album was produced by Isaac Brock of Modest Mouse and is soon to be released on his Glacial Pace Recordings.
Civil Twilight
Civil Twilight comes all the way from South Africa. Having been inspired by British and American rock bands, their sounds draw comparisons to Radiohead, and U2, yet with fresh, ambitious vocals that portray their South American roots.
All the Day Holiday
Anointed by Rolling Stones as “one of six breakout bands to watch for at the 2009 Bamboozle Festival,” All the Day Holiday is making themselves heard, combining punk, indie, and alternative-rock with captivating liver performances. Check them out Saturday on the East Stage.
Bear Hands
Bear Hands is a post-punk/experimental/indie rock act hailing from Brooklyn, New York. Forming in 2006, the band consists of Dylan Rau, Ted Feldman, Val Loper and TJ Orscher. These NYC futurestars update the wit and weariness of the salad days of indie rock and make it fit for the aughties. A propulsive, percussive edge eschews any and all mopey tendencies in favor of unbridled energy and unchained melodies. The band recently released a 4 song EP called Golden EP.
That One Guy
Mark Silverman is a one-man-band known for his instrumental vocals and diverse homemade instruments. His style is a merge of beat-boxing and funk, with a signature style developed through the sound of his homemade “Magic Pipe.” It’s almost as if his music is a science experiment.
Dawn Landes and the Hounds
Dawn Landes’ indie-folk, breezy and sweetly assembled, has found its way on various films, television shows and commercials, and for good reason—the middle-of-the-road pop elements keep the songwriter quietly pleasing, and the down-home sitting-on-the-porch personality, which comes through more often than you’d expect, lends Landes some realism.
Wax Fang
Wild, bombastic, power-trio Wax Fang is a vision of how rock ‘n’ roll might sound if it simultaneously existed in the past and future, stopping in the present just long enough to stupefy listeners. The result is a potent mix of glam-rock, pop, and surf riffs with the dreamy ambiance of vintage Brian Eno and David Bowie, combining powerful guitars with soothing, high-pitched vocals for a unique, rhythmic sound that is undeniably wonderful.
Death on Two Wheels
Death On Two Wheels makes rock ’n’ roll dangerous again, with slurry-blurry lyrics, half-cocked dreamspeak of portents and regret, and a formidable guitar attack that recalls the nasty duels Allen Collins waged with Gary Rossington before Skynyrd’s final plane ride. Following the same bumpy trail as Kings of Leon, this Atlanta fivesome seems to be in pursuit of darker mysteries on the band’s self-released debut. And unlike the Kings, they have more range and a greater reverence for ’70s classic rock, not to mention the eccentric bite of vocalist Trae Vedder.
Lucky Pineapple
Lucky Pineapple is comprised of an unlikely combination of classically trained musicians, veterans of the Louisville punk scene, theater performers, improvisational noise artists and all around unique individuals. Comprised of an unlikely group, the band offers a very different sound that reflects the unique individuals they are. Fresh off a well-received SXSW showcase, catch them Saturday on the East Stage.
The Tillers
The Tillers, a Ohio-based indie / bluegrass band, are quickly winning the hearts of revelers as they venture out and perform in new places to celebrate the release of their latest record, By The Signs. Their style is rooted in folk, with influences in 30s jazz, and mountain gospel.
The Ravenna Colt
The Ravenna Colt is My Morning Jacket co-founder Johnny Quaid returning to his troubadour roots. He first conceptualized the group’s approach to alternative country more than a decade ago. Quaid was well immersed in music, from his own songwriting and performing, to his work as a recording engineer at Above the Cadillac Studios — chops that would serve the young songwriter well.
Black Diamond Heavies
Black Diamond Heavies is a passionate indie-rock band with deep, gritty vocals and head-banging beats. Their raw and distant sound is powerful, influenced by their southern roots of rock and blues.
Light Pollution
Light Pollution characterizes themselves as a psychedelic band with religious and healing visions. Blending soothing, harmonious vocals over flowing melodies that are both feel good and pleasing to the ear, the band’s dazzlingly inventive soundscapes and choral arrangements push the current boundaries of pop music far beyond the breaking point to create a perfect hybrid of moody indie pop and psychedelia. In Light Pollution, one can hear hints of current indie faves such as Animal Collective, Grizzly Bear, and Deerhunter.
Willy Joy
Chicago partymaster Willy Joy’s Fly By Night parties have become infamous touchstones of the eclectic new dance party sound coming out of the Windy City. His DJ sets, productions and work with Chicago rappers & musicians have been packing sweaty dancefloors across the country from Lollapalooza to sweaty warehouses. With many upcoming releases & remixes as well as near-constant gigging throughout the USA and beyond, Willy is set to blow up fast. URB Magazine named him one of the Next 100 artists to watch – come see him live and you’ll instantly know why.
Pop Empire
Pop Empire is a Cincinnati-based band comprised of two vocalists, Cameron Cochran and Henrie Wilson. The two sound very different, yet compliment each other and the layers of sound create a full texture that takes indie-pop to a new level.
500 Miles to Memphis
500 Miles to Memphis is comfortable fitting into a number of musical shoes. Combining alternative-rock, punk, and honkey tonk country, they have created a versatile style that is guaranteed to please rockers and cowboys alike. Catch them Sunday on the East Stage.
The Giving Tree Band
The Giving Tree Band is a group of Illinois boys who keep one foot in the city and one in the country. Every lyric is thoughtful and supported by intricate vocal harmonies and interesting musical arrangements influenced by the group’s diverse backgrounds in rock, jazz, and classical music. Described as progressive old time, outlaw bluegrass, and even “eco-billy hippie folk”, their all-acoustic sound is always exploring new ground.
Quinn Erwin
Quinn Erwin is a singer-songwriter based in Nashville, TN. His music gives nods to his influences; particularly artists like Travis, The Frames, Death Cab for Cutie, Genesis, and Pete Yorn, but when asked how he would describe his music he often replies that it sounds like “hope and fear colliding.” Whether he is singing about the warm and poignant or the rough and dark he says he wants to write music that makes a difference.
Frontier Ruckus
Figuratively speaking, Frontier Ruckus was founded in Michigan’s thumb, a ways into the flatland sun, leaving the affluence of the painted Boulevard towns. There the grid is sparing and scarce, with sunlit water towers and cabin fields full of sugar beets. We sleep in overheated dew-tents under the roar of sunbeams in bearded billboard fields earshot of the lake bluffs in summer.
Vandaveer
Vandeveer is the alt-folk song-singing/record making/globetrotting project penned and put forth by DC-by-way-of-Kentucky tunesmith Mark Charles Heidinger. Vandaveer’s debut album, Grace & Speed, a mostly live, stripped down affair, swiftly entered this great big dusty world in the spring of 2007. The press responded heartily, with The Washington Post saying Vandaveer “revives the earnestness of the pre-psychedelic 60’s,” and XM Cafe calling him “this generation’s Nick Drake.
Tony Desaro
Considered by many as Ohio’s best house dj, Tony Desaro has been commanding dance floors for the past 17 years. Not many djs can claim that they have opened for Sasha and Digweed, Paul Van Dyk, BT, Deadmau5, Ferry Corsten, the Crystal Method, Dirty Vegas, Darude, Bad Boy Bill, Steve Porter, and dj Rap. The list goes on and on. Tonys unique blend of tech house ranges full spectrum, from techno to funky. Full of amazing crescendos, his legendary sets have gained notoriety over the years.
Andy B
With his roots firmly planted in the St. Louis scene over ten years ago, Andy B. has had plenty of time to progress his unique sound. With a forthcoming album release in the fall on CatalyticSouls Records, Andy B can be found captivating dance floors all over the U.S. One of the Midwest’s favorite players will get you flying with his massive style of broken bassline and electro house.
Kinetix
Party Rock. It’s a self-created genre, not ostentatious but simply a description of what a Kinetix show has come to be. Kinetix are equal parts pop and rock, like being warmly serenaded but knowing there’s a strong possibility of getting punched in the stomach. They blend pop sensibilities with searing guitar work and a physical, flexible rhythm section to create, well, Party Rock. The music is well composed and full of energy. The result has created a loyal, diverse audience spread throughout cities and towns across the country.
Quantum38
Quantum38 brings the studio to the stage during there live performance. Founded by John Napier and Brett Lind early in 2009, quantum38 developed their own unique sound, blending pounding bass, melodic percussion and their own twisted sound designs into techno driven productions. Watch it go down Sunday at The Ocean Stage.
Booty Sweat
Lexington native, Booty Sweat is known for making dirty remixes of familiar songs that send heavy vibrations through the air. The type of music that creates a captivating experience for the whole body, and keeps you dancing all night long.
Amtrak
Returning after an captivating performance at Halfway to Forecastle, Amtrak is back for another mind-altering delivery of their electronic rooted mixes and dance inspiring sound. See him Saturday on the Ocean Stage.
Garganta
They have become the belief that all things have a unifying heard and breath-beat, these rhythms, once harmonized, create a euphoric cadence in which viewers lose their sense of being and find themselves immersed in a world of plush velvet, art deco and acid grooves, simply known as GARGANTAVISION
Larva Ink
Producing psychedelic hip-hop and intense, down-tempo beats, Denver-based artist Larva Ink (Johnny Lewis) has created an identity for himself with a unique and viscerally energetic sound, making him a key component in the new wave of electronic music to hit Colorado.
John Napier
Based in Nashville, John Napier has been rocking dancefloors in the Midwest for years. He brings his unique sound, style, and structure to Forecastle for a special dual performance on The Ocean Stage with Quantum 38. Check him out Saturday.
The Disco Aliens
It’s a fitting name, The Disco Aliens, for a band with such a multi-dimensional sound. This foursome combines DJs, turntables and mixers to create the spacey and mysterious soundscape that has become their signature style. Catch them Saturday on the Ocean Stage.
Frontier(s)
Chris Higdon (Elliott, Falling Forward) has a new musical identity, forged in a different time than his last and most appreciated project, the ethereal indie band Elliott. It shows in unexpected ways. Where Elliott songs were abstract art, Frontier(s) songs are punk-tinged rock. Elliott songs were all structured rhythms and ambient sounds playing behind Higdon’s soft, haunting voice. Frontier(s) songs are aggression and guitar, and Higdon howls like he hasn’t since he sang for Falling Forward, the quintessential Louisville melodic hardcore band in the early ’90s.
The Broken Spurs
Have you seen the Broken Spurs? No other band in Louisville can reach across a wall of second hand smoke to grab me by the Budweiser belt buckle – my only inheritance – and pull me straight into the kind of scene my momma only ever warned me about. If you feel the need to classify them, and I know you do, try the feral sexy sneer of the Stooges mixed with just enough cerebral Television to tingle the toes of every sweet sweet nerd inside the Watterson.
Arnett Hollow
Arnett Hollow, comprised of members Michael Dufresne, Chris Rodahaffer, Cheyenne Mize, Rob Edwards, and Dave Chandler, has recently established a presence in Louisville’s music scene. With a unique brand of bluegrass defining their sound, they have attracted the attention of acclaimed artists such as Ben Sollee and Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy.
The Children
The Children are an experimental, dub band from Louisville comprised of veteran musicians Gary “Basil” Bromley, Mac Finley, David Wright, Eddie Campbell, Tyler Trotter, and Dominic Cipoll. They have been performing together since the earlier 2000’s. This will be their 2nd appearence at Forecastle, and first in over 5 years. Come see the Children.
Adventure
“A rock band inspired by trees and strange places.”Influcened by Harry Belafonte, Charlie Rich, Liz Phair, Chuck Berry, David Bowie, Frank Black and the Catholics, Adventure is an exciting, hard-drving, Lousiville rock quartet making its Forecastle debut.
IamIs
IamIs is a local band with a very personalized style that mixes indie, folk, and psychedelic-rock with hints of blues and jazz. Their colorful combination creates a feel good atmosphere that will have the crowd swaying to the beat of their whimsical melodies.
Paul K and the Weatherman
A songwriter’s musician, Paul K is a veteran of the Kentucky music scene with over 30 recordings under his belt. The band is a solid, authentically satisfying, working class blues rock outfit with a sharp intellectual edge. This is not “their best lineup ever” nor is it a “startling change in direction” or “the sound of new ground being broken.”
The Fervor
The seductive and soulful vocals, combined with soft, dreamy melodies are what make The Fervor, a Louisville rock band, a performance not to miss. They are a band with an almost laid back feel but with an intensity – born of lush, pleasurable vocals and subdued guitars that still growl – just below the surface. Natalie Felker’s vocals call to mind singers such as Imogen Heap or P.J. Harvey. The band consists of Natalie Felker on vocals and keyboards, Ben Felker on guitar, bass and vocals, Mat Herron on drums and vocals and Michael Campbell on bass.
Parlour
What began in the mid-90s as the one-man multi-instrumental sound experiments of Crain founder Tim Furnish has now morphed into a thrilling 7-headed beast that spits out adrenaline-steeped jams like a dragon spits fire. Equally indebted to the driving rhythms of the late 70’s German underground, the melodic guitar skree of Sonic Youth and the aquatic explorations of Jaques Cousteau documentaries, Parlour are a fresh burst of nervous energy and ambitious precision.
The Commonwealth
Daniel Duncan could probably write any kind of song he wanted, from a 4/4 waltz to a Top 40 pop song, but he loves a challenge as much as he loves music. That’s why he started The Commonwealth, a band known for defying expectations. At full power, The Commonwealth boasts guitar, acoustic bass, violin, cello, saxophone, drums, clarinet and banjo – any combination of which will likely take a left turn everytime you’re thinking right.
The Pass
Louisville-based new wave/pop band, The Pass, is currently recording a new album with Alex Aldi (Passion Pit, The Walkmen, Tokyo Police Club). To celebrate and share their new work, they will performing Forecastle and awing audiences with their catchy melodies and uniquely soulful vocals, that draw similarities to the Killers.
Scanners
Hudson, aka Nacirema, whose new album The Jesus Piece is out now, keeps his beats close and his abstractions closer. Rhyming since high school, he fell under the wing of an Indianapolis rapper named Osiris, who mentored him on what Hudson calls the “tactical art” of rhyming.
The Deloreans
The title says it all: Love Outrageous! The Deloreans have crafted an album that reconnects with the light-hearted, layered arrangements of 60’s pop, the carefree but skilled vocals of late 70’s New York City punk and the modern sensibility to make it all worth something in 2009. The album delivers a collection of songs about the facets of love that will keep your limbs moving, mouth smiling and your heart longing.
Yardsale
With a sound that’s rooted in bluegrass and folk-rock, Yardsale adds a personal touch of acoustic rock. This is how they create their own signature style, which is as pleasing to the ear as it is easy to dance along to.
Whistle Peak
Whistle Peak is one of Louisville’s upcoming musical artists who have crafted a fresh sound, blending folk, indie, pop, and live electronica. The band’s greatest asset has always been lo-fi charm and subtlety, and without forsaking these elements, they manage to create beautifully pastoral folk environments with electronic influences and percussion accents which twinkle like stars between your ears.
Straight A’s
On the heels of their first full-length record on Noise Pollution, Louisville rockers Straight A’s make their Forecastle debut. Catch the Saturday on the Bluegrass Catastrophe Stage.
Maiden Radio
There is no denying that Madien Radio has been influenced by their Louisville, Kentucky roots. This all female band creates beautiful harmonies blended with the sounds of their three banjos that encompass a complete old-time bluegrass feel.
23 String Band
Hailing from Kentucky, the 23 String Band pays homage to the deep roots of American traditional music, while pushing forward with genre-bending, hard-driving originals and distinctive arrangements. Their youthful brand of “original hillbilly music” weaves in and out of old-time, bluegrass, acoustic roots, and anything else that strikes their fancy – it’s not uncommon to hear a Beastie Boys cover by these boys. It’s a winning combination that makes for an entertaining and energetic performance, and it’s taken the band everywhere from regional venues and private parties to literary conferences and music festivals.
Brett Eugene Ralph’s Kentucky Chrome Revue
Lending from folk and southern rock influences, Brett Eugene Ralph’s Kentucky Chrome Revue is unique blend of genres combining to create a soulful country style that is very much their own. This combined with soothing vocals that are accented by beautiful female harmonies, is what makes this band so unique.
March Madness Marching Band
March Madness Marching Band (MMMB) is Lexington’s moving music and dance sensation. A symphony of mismatched musical instruments… a kaleidoscope of band-inspired costumes… a choreographed gaggle of hoop dancers… an array of unconventional, unpredictable dancers and spinners. Each band member a piece of authentic Lexington, creating a delicious concoction from quirky ingredients.
Shelby Park Soul Stew Kitchen
Chef Tucker and Shelby Park Soul Stew will cook it up at Forecastle 2010, bringin their unique style of culinary message to the Forecastle masses
Dangerbird
Dangerbird is a full tilt, rock ‘n roll band from Louisville, KY. The band is Brian Gray (vocals, guitar), Mike Nix (guitar, vocals), Donnie Bott (bass), and Bradley Coomes (drums). Brian and Bradley were members of the now defunct Louisville band the Pine Club. Donnie had recorded the Pine Club in the past and Mike and Bradley have been friends since they were rock-obsessed teens. Dangerbird is a great excuse for these chums to drink beer and get their fix for killer riff-heavy rock a la Neil Young, The Faces, The Stones, and The Who.
Your News Vehicles
Vocalist/Guitarist Scott Mertz, formerly of the Shinerunners and Cornbread Mafia, teams up with long time lead guitar/songwriter, Southside Freddy, of Bodeco, to show the world the roots-ier side of southern americana rock and roll. Together the group burst onto the music scene with a mindset of attitude and truth. Your News Vehicles will be recording an album throughout March and plans on touring after that. The group has also teamed up with independent music label, Departure Records which hosts bands such as The Ladybirds and Edgehill Avenue.
Six White Horses
Six White Horses began as a recording project by David Wright in early 2006. Their debut E.P. “Vamps and Drones” was recorded late 2007, and is available as a free download on this site.6wh’s plan to begin recording its first full length record (Dark Passages and Silver Linings) early 2009.
Nerves Jr.
Nerves Jr. is textured, electronic and experimental band hailing from the woodlands of Louisville. This will be the quartet’s Forecastle debut.
Sam Gracie
Local DJ phenomeon Sam Gracie will make his 3rd appearance at Forecastle. Check him out on the Ocean Stage.
