The Economy Isn't Hurting Fests

Check out this article from Billboard, which reports that music festival ticket sales are strong. I would argue with a couple of the conclusions -- One, that the cancellation of Langerado in South Florida was a sign of the economic times. Langerado's failure had more to do with the fact that they moved the festival from the wilds of the Everglades into downtown Miami. Nobody wanted to fest in downtown Miami. Billboard also mentions that ticket sales for Rothbury in Michigan are down. I think that has to do with the hefty $250-plus ticket price. Festivals that have kept prices reasonable are thriving, because they are a good value, and that's what folks are looking for these days.

Bear Creek, Baby!

Important reminder, festivarians! Bear Creek Early Bird ticket prices end Sunday, May 31. Get your $99 price now... gate is $165.....

On the Road Again!

Heading out today to the Mossyheadz fest outside North Florida's DeFuniak Springs. I was disappointed to learn that Dread Clampitt won't be playing as usual, but I am going to tough it out in the wilds of Walton County anyway! Lots of bands I have never heard of, so that should be fun. Looking forward to the Burnin' Smyrnins, Ralph Roddenberry ( I just leanred he's Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry's nephew, who knew? All I know is he ROCKS it), Rebecca Jean Smith, Dubconscious, and the excellent band 3rd stone which I wrote about in my last post from the Farm to Family Full Moon fest last weekend. Promoter promises two surprise guests. Wonder who they are??

It's gonna be hot, but there's a spring a short drive away, aaaaaahhhhhhhhhhh....

UPDATE: I went, the spring was closed. Boo hiss. The fest site was super super hot, camping was a quarter mile away from the stage. Why????????? I left and stayed at my friend's place on the beach, which was lovely. I later heard bands had to be cancelled on Sunday (which was best lineup) due to poor attendance.

A Lovely Time at Full Moon Fest

The weekend crowd at the Farm to Family Full Moon Fest was pretty small, but the bands were smokin' and the vibe was sweet. It was HOT out there, y'all. Thanks to Don and the organizers for the misters and the generous shade tent.

Standout performances came from 3rd Stone, with fat and funky reggae grooves and killer vocals; The Duppies, kick-ass ska band that that got the crowd up and moving under the glorious moon, and Boss Lady and The Company,whith Boss Lady's strong and heartfelt vocals. The Glass Camels and Crazy Fingers laid it down with two super solid Dead sets late night on Friday and Saturday. Festgrrl also has to prop her fave band, who raged it as usual, Dread Clampitt

I am also loving the little acoustic duo The Bandits!

This was an inaugural show for the Farm to Family folks OFF their usual location, and it was an expanded three-day fest. Since turnout was kind of low, they cut things short on Sunday and asked people for donations to help pay the bands.

I kind of missed the smaller venue, to be honest. Next month it's back to the old farmstead, I'll post the date when I get it.

Full Moon Fest!

Looking forward to joining the kind folks at Farm To Family Music under the full moon this weekend in Alachua, just outside Gainesville. Only $40!

They've put some care into the venue and into the lineup, judging from their very detailed website. Since there aren't many trees, bring shade with you. They are planning to have a mister tent to keep us all comfortable.

Shout out to Don who thankfully considers parents -- kids are free, and there's a camping area close to the tunes so parents can groove and little ones can snooze. Looks like it will be a blast! See details here