Most Summerfest headliners don't go on until 8pm or 10pm, a lot of people like to get their Summerfest on early. Kitty, who hasn't missed a Summerfest in nearly 20 years, looked over the schedule to find some not-to-miss shows that will happen while the sun's still out.
Wed. June 29:The Nod 3pm at the Cascio Music Stage. Garage rock from Madison. Find out why Rob Thomas of 77 Square says their music is smart and jangly pop reminiscent of Cake or Spoon.
Thurs. June 30Mighty Short Bus noon at the Briggs & Stratton Stage. See Project M champ Frank Busch in his natural element..on stage with his band.
The Jimmy's, 2pm at the Briggs & Stratton Stage. A great blues band featuring our favorite rock n roll farmer, Jimmy Voegeli
Bascom Hill, 5pm at the Miller Oasis. More great Madison music!
Friday July 1:Big Bob & the Ballroom Blitz with Greg Koch, 4pm at the Harley Davidson Stage. Greg Koch just might be the best guitar player in WI.            Check this show out and experience real gristle!
Saturday July 2M & I Employee Party, Noon at the Classic Rock Stage. What? That's not a band name?
Sunday July 3
De La Buena 6pm at the Harley Davidson Stage. Danceable Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz. Say hi to Jeremy, the drummer. He used to work at Triple M!
Monday July 4
Summerfest is closed. What's up with that?
Tuesday July 5Elusive Parallelograms 6pm at the Cascio Music Stage. That just might be the coolest band name ever! They play alternative experimental pop rock.
Wednesday July 6
Mike Droho & The Compass Rose, 6pm at the Cascio Music Stage. Hey it's Season One Project M winner Mike Droho! Woo hoo!
Thursday July 7Locksley, 3pm at the Rock Stage. Little Steven loves 'em, they're on tons of commercials..and they're from Madison!
Friday July 8Sue DeBaco & The Double Down 6pm at the Potawatomi Stage. How about a little blues for your evening listening pleasure?
Saturday July 9Pat McCurdy 5pm at the Briggs and Stratton Stage. How about a little Sex & Beer everybody?
Sunday July 10Daniel & The Lion, 4:30 at the Cascio Music Stage. Featuring another Project M winner, Jimmie Linville. It's a Summerfest Trifecta!
Arcade Fire captured the attention of the entire mass of 100,000+ people Friday night.
15 minutes before they took the stage, faces turned up to the sky as around 7 parachutists trailed what looked like pounds of glitter on top of the audience. Shouts of awe rang across the field as what we all thought was glitter started raining down in a random pattern across the sky. As it began to get closer, the mystery of the falling objects progressed into further confusion. It wasnât glitter â it was something else. As I managed to jump up and grab a package, I realized that it was a packet of several bands with different colored blinking lights on them. After people connected to lights to either their bodies or a piece of clothing, a gargantuan sea of flashing lights surrounded the main stage.Â
Better yet, Arcade Fireâs energized performance catered to the stereotypical Roo attendee by having a movie screen playing clips/short films behind them that coordinated with the theme of each individual song. There were repeating images of people dressed in strange, almost doll-like outfits, a short film of people riding bicycles that looked as if it had been produced in the 70s, & colorful or colorless patterns that was designed to induce a particular feeling as you listened to each individual songâs lyrics. You couldnât have walked away if you wanted to. It was absolutely magic. If you havenât seen Arcade Fire perform live â I would strongly suggest finding out where theyâre touring this summer and buying a ticket, today if not sooner.
*Photo by MusicAllies*
Yesterday at Bonnaroo, you couldnât get a free moment if you tried. The lineup was stacked with artists that couldnât be missed, performances that had to be heard. Everyone seemed to be enjoying stage hopping in order to hear the wide variety of artists whose performances exceedingly overlapped. Hereâs how my day wentâ¦
Ben Sollee 1-2pm
Belafleck & the Flecktones: The Original Line-Up 2-3:15pm
Grace Potter & the Nocturnals 3:15-4:30
Warren Haynes Band 4-5:30pm
The Decemberists 5:30-7
Ray LaMontagne 6:15-7:45pm
Florence + the Machine 6:45-8:15
Bobby Long 8-8:50
Arcade Fire 11-12:30
+ MORE!
I had a hard time making decisions â who to see, how long to stay at which performances, & when to eat/sit. Straight from Vermont, Grace Potter proved that her music was ârockâ label worthy as thousands of people watched â her voice captured a tone that most singers could not pull off in a controlled manner as she masterfully does herself. She also impressed with her guitar skills & simultaneous head banging/luring electric piano playing.  And the Nocturnals entertained with solos from their guitarists + the happiest face that you will ever see from any drummer out there.Â
Ray LaMontagne also mesmerized the crowd with his shy/humble demeanor and calming voice. His song choices included several songs off of his recently released album, âGod willinâ and the Creek Donât Rise.â And believe me when I say they are as good live as they are recorded. You wouldnât have even been able to point out a discrepancy had he not sang as freely as he did.Â
The highlight of Friday night â the headliner. Arcade Fire, captured the attention of the entire mass of 100,000 people attending Bonnaroo. About 15 minutes before they took the stage, something that no one will forget happenedâ¦read on to the next post for the detailsâ¦
Listen to the Ray LaMontagne interview below!
Ray Lamontagne Int
*Pictures taken by MusicAllies and Bonnaroo 2011 Cams*
Â
Itâs the 10th Anniversary of Bonnaroo and you can feel the excitement in the air as people are lining up at the main entrance from the campground. The vendors have fully prepped everything and await the arrival of those who forgot to bring the essentials with them â food, beer, sandals (yes, that happened). They know that since the fest itself sold out, theyâre bound to make a killing. And they will!Â
I took an hour or so to check out the various stands that were set up â handmade nomadic shoes, hammocks that you can fold into a pouch, hand-crafted jewelry and clothes, itâs all there, and itâs all unique in some fashion. Itâs basically the most amazing assortment of gift shops that youâve ever seen.Â
And the food â oh the food! You can find anything and everything there â as long as itâs fried or it doesnât need to be refrigerated. So, ya know, almost anything. The food ranges from corn dogs to Thai food and your taste buds can be satisfied in under 5 minutes if you so choose. Heaven in your mouth? The answer to that question is Yes, YES!
There are 5 large stages â THAT tent, THIS tent, WHAT stage, WHICH stage, & the OTHER tent. Last night, the Band of Skulls was the highlight of the 1st day of Bonnaroo. They pulled the crowd in with music that made you want to move along with the beat â even if youâre not the dancing kind. The crowd was up for anything and everything â they couldnât get enough of it. So much so that crowd surfing to the front of the stage became the âITâ thing to do because it was the easiest way to make it through the crowd, which fanned out far beyond the reach of the tent. Never having listened to them much myself, I found myself making a note to buy their CD once I left.
Thatâs the best part of this festival â there are so many bands that youâve never heard of but when you make an effort to go watch them perform you could find your new music love! What will today have in store?Â
The line-up is stacked with Triple M artists and Iâll have an update for everyone tomorrow morning â Arcade Fire, The Decemberists, Ray LaMontagne, Florence + the Machine â theyâre all here! Check in tomorrow for your ROO update!
Yes, that was THE best 3am quote of the car ride...here'swhy...
As we left on the car ride to Manchester, TN all I could think was, âonly 14 hours of hell crammed into a tiny car and youâre there!â Thankfully that 14 hours magically turned into 10 at our driverâs refusal to stop for anything other than 1 â 1 single - pee/gas break. As my bladder screamed at him, my thoughts were only those of gratitude. We were that much closer, that much sooner.
After the miracle car ride, we finally made our arrival at the Bonnaroo campground at 3am. Our hearts sank as we realized that on the opposite side of the road there was a line of cars on the right shoulder that went on for at LEAST 15-20 miles. It was an endless sea of bright lights, tents littering the grass next to various cars, and people standing outside stretching their legs as they wait in anticipation to begin pitching their tent and actually getting settled in for the weekend. People were waiting for UP TO 7 HOURS! Either they seriously love music, or they seriously love to party. My guess is that it was a combo.Â
Getting set up was the least of our worries. It was quick, simple, but HOT. HOT HOT HOT. Iâm talking 90 degrees at 9am hot. Sweat dripping down your face as you empty the first item out of the back of your car. It may sound badâ¦but once youâre done itâs all friendly neighbors, smiling faces, beer & of course, music!Â
Read the next blog to hear about the highlights from Thursday!
Plan your San Fran trip around the Outside Lands music festival - held at Golden Gate Park. The fest is geared to the new green movement that has been taking hold across the nation - each year it includes numerous initiatives to enhance the eco-friendliness of the event. Check out the lineup + buy your ticket today!
2011 Lineup:
Muse
Phish (2 sets)
Arcade Fire
The Black Keys
Deadmau5
The Shins
MGMT
Girl Talk
The Decemberists
John Fogerty
Erykah Badu
The Original Meters
Beirut
The Roots
Arctic Monkeys
STS9
Big Boi
Big Audio Dynamite
Warren Haynes Band
Major Lazer
Little Dragon
Julieta Venegas
SIA
OK Go
The Greyboy Allstars
Josh Ritter & the Royal City Band
Old 97's
Mavis Staples
!!!
Latyrx featuring Lyrics Born & Lateef
Best Coast
Collie Buddz
Phantogram
Charles Bradley
Foster the People
Lotus
STRFKR
Junip
Pajama Party
The Infamous Stringdusters
The Vaccines
Toro y Moi
Vetiver
The Limousines
The Stone Foxes
The Joy Formidable
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
Wye Oak
Ana Tijoux
Orgone
Lord Huron
Tamaryn
Grouplove
The Fresh & Onlys
Ximena Sarinana
Ry Segall
Sunbirds
Nicki Bluhm & The Gamblers
Diego's Umbrella
Ghost Robot
Electric Forest, "the new Rothbury," will be held from June 30-July 3 in Rothbury, Michigan. This year, the infamous Sherwood forest is speculated to be "bigger and better than ever!" Honestly, if you've never experienced the awe of the forest, what are you waiting for? It will be a vision you'll never forget!
Tickets go on sale March 5th at 11am. Early bird tickets will cost $199 for a four-day pass that includes camping.
Electric Forestâs complete list of confirmed performers is as follows:
The String Cheese Incident (3 Shows)
Tiësto
Bassnectar
Pretty Lights
REO Speedwagon
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
Stephen Marley
Kaskade
Shpongle Presents The Shpongletron Experience
Railroad Earth
Laidback Luke
JJ Grey & Mofro
Excision
The New Deal
EOTO
Emmitt-Nershi Band
Skrillex
Karl DensonÂs Tiny Universe
Toubab Krewe
Bonobo (DJ Set)
Beats Antique
Big Gigantic
Chiddy Bang
Eskmo
Lettuce
Eliot Lipp
Paper Diamond
The Infamous Stringdusters
Zion I & The Grouch
Greensky Bluegrass
Feed Me
The Reverend PeytonÂs Big Damn Band
The Beautiful Girls (Acoustic)
12th Planet
The Pimps of Joytime
Rubblebucket
Archnemesis
Emancipator
Break Science
The Macpodz
VibeSquaD
Euforquestra
The Hood Internet
Lynx
Two Fresh
KRAZ (DJ Set)
The Treasures
Steez
SuperDre
Panic Bomber
Dragon Wagon
**On Saturday, Electric Forest is holding a mini-festival, within the festival, starring none other than REO Speedwagon**
Pickathon - Indie Roots Music Festival - has announced its 2011 lineup! Experience the 13th annual festival at the amazing 80 acre grounds of Pendarvis Farm on Mt. Scott near Portland, OR. Pickathon provides on of the best summer festival lineups of the year. No other festival brings you this mix of music. It is true music lover's paradise!
The Lineup:
Mavis Staples
Bill Callahan
Lee Fields & The Expressions
Califone
Damien Jurado
Thao
Fruit Bats
Ray Wylie Hubbard
Vetiver
Laura Veirs
Brownout
The Wilders
The Sadies
Richard Swift
Pine Leaf Boys
The Builders and The Butchers
Danny Barnes
Sonny & The Sunsets
Whitey Morgan & The 78âs
Mike + Ruthy
Black Lillies
Strand of Oaks
Elliott Brood
Bruce Molsky
Ages and Ages
Joy Kills Sorrow
Charlie Parr
Old Light
Ted Jones and The Tarheel Boys
Buffalo Killers
Pokey LaFarge
Rock Plaza Central
Truckstop Darlinâ
Cahalen Morrison & Eli West
Diane Ferlatte
The west coastâs greatest music festival, Coachella, returns to Indio, California the weekend of April 15-17 with dozens and dozens of your favorite bands including festival headliners Kings of Leon, Arcade Fire, Kanye West and the Strokes. Highlights of the drop dead gorgeous lineup include The National, The Black Keys, Brandon Flowers and Cee Lo Green.
There are also loads of acts performing that are expected to drop albums sometime this year, among them: Animal Collective, Lauryn Hill, Mumford & Sons, Bright Eyes, PJ Harvey and Duran Duran. See the full lineup
Orton Park FestivalAugust 26-29, 2010Orton Park, Madison, WIAlthough summer is nearing an end and schools will soon be starting a near year, you still have opportunity to fully enjoy your summer right here in Madison!
This weekend is the Orton Park Festival presented by the Marquette Neighborhood Association. Â This year will be the annual festival's 45th year and will feature a diverse lineup of performances. Â The Orton Park Festival has purpose of creating and growing community and friendship. Â The festival is free of charge, but funds raised throughout the festival will go to implement community projects and organizations.
What is a festival without music? Â Well we are in luck because Orton Park Festival will feature a great lineup of music and other performers. Â The schedule for the four day event is as follows.
Thursday, August 26th
Family Night (Ice Cream & Soft Drinks for sale):
6:30 p.m. - Daithi Wolfe & Company
8:00 p.m. - Cycropia Aerial Dance Theater
Friday, August 27th
5:00 - 8:00 p.m. - International Dinner with Vendors
5:45 p.m. - The Tony Castañeda Latin Jazz Sextet
6:45 p.m. - MNA Auction
7:15 p.m. - Razia Said (NYC/Madagascar)
8:45 p.m. - Cycropia Aerial Dance Theater
Saturday, August 28th
Noon - Whitney Mann
1:30 p.m. - Robert J and the Rowdy Prairie Dogs
3:00 p.m. - Cris Plata and Extra Hot
4:15 p.m. - MNA Auction
5:15 p.m. - Monika and Christian Nieves (Puerto Rico)
7:00 p.m. - The Carolina Chocolate Drops
9:00 p.m. - Curley Taylor and Zydeco Trouble
Sunday, August 29th
9:00 a.m. - Jazz Brunch with The Randall Harrison Trio
11:30 a.m. - The Rohnalleros
1:00 p.m. - The Getaway Drivers
2:00 p.m. - Orton Cake Walk
2:30 p.m. - Kings Go Forth
3:45 p.m. - MNA Auction
4:45 p.m. - The Rousers
6:45 p.m. - Dave Alvin & the Guilty Women
So if you are in Madison this weekend and looking for a fun way to spend a late August weekend, head to Orton Park! Â More info!
Looking for a great way to spend your Sunday? Â Well grab your bike, helmet and sunglasses and head into downtown Madison and join Lance Armstrong, Triple M and all your fellow Madisonians at Ride The Drive!
Ride the DriveSunday August 29Downtown Madison/John Nolen Drive (Route)
RIDE THE DRIVE is a celebration of Madisonâs commitment to healthy, active lifestyles. This community event is an invitation for all citizens to leave their cars behind to experience some of Madisonâs most scenic byways a whole new way - by riding, walking, skating, or strolling along some of our cityâs most beautiful streets.
Join legendary cyclist Lance Armstrong and cruise designated downtown Madison streets without worry of motor vehicle traffic.
After or during your ride join Triple M at the "Ride The Drive - People Powered Stage" to catch some of your favorite Project M contestants!
The schedule for the "People Powered Stage"
11-11:35 Beth Kille
11:50-12:25 Mark Harrod
12:40-1:15 Keefe Klug
1:30-2:05 Anna Laube
2:20-2:55 Corey Hart
For more information and details, head over to our Triple M information page.
Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday!
by Kitty Dunn
It's about time Farm Aid makes it to the Dairy State!
Having had the chance to attend one previous Farm Aid, I was ecstatic to hear that the 25th anniversary benefit concert is happening at Miller Park in Milwaukee October 2nd. Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, and Dave Matthews are all scheduled to perform, and more artists will be announced later.
Farm Aid founders Nelson and Mellencamp made the announcement via webcast on Monday, and despite some technical glitches managed to get the information out.
Mellencamp says Milwaukee is a perfect place to celebrate Farm Aidâs silver anniversary, noting that âMidwest farmers share the same struggle as family farmers across the country. They are survivors, and theyâre on the land creating solutions for Americaâs most pressing issues.â
According to a news release, the all-day festival will be a celebration of music, family farmers and good food and will again feature HOMEGROWN concessionsâfamily-farm identified, local and organic foods. Farm Aidâs HOMEGROWN Village will showcase hands-on activities that give concertgoers a chance to meet farmers, get their hands dirty, and learn how family farmers are protecting our land and water and connecting us to our roots.
I got to attend Farm Aid in 1998 in Chicago, and it was a blast. Not only did I get to see the main headliners (minus Dave Matthews who hadn't joined the team yet), I got to see Wilco, Brian Wilson, Steve Earle with the Del McCoury Band and even Hootie and the Blowfish. I have to say I was extremely blown away by Phish..who were joined on stage by Neil Young for a marathon guitar duel during "Down By The River." Even though I don't know the complete lineup for the 2010 edition, I'm going to do everything I can to be there.
Tickets for Farm Aid 25: Growing Hope for America will go on sale Saturday, August 14, at 9 a.m. CDT and are available at the Brewers box office, by phone at (414) 902-4000 or online at www.tickets.com. Ticket prices range from $39.50 to $97.50, including facility fee.Farm Aid will offer special advance sale tickets to Farm Aid members beginning Friday, August 6. To become a Farm Aid member, click here. (Cost is $40 per membership and the availability of advance tickets is not guaranteed).
This Saturday the 2000 and 2100 blocks of Atwood Avenue (in front of the Barrymore Theatre) will be rockin' with great live music on two stages...that's right, it's Atwood Summerfest time again.
It's one of the city's best neighborhood festivals..with yummy ethnic food, icy cold beer..and fun for the kids too with face painting, arts and crafts, and those inflatable jump-around thingies!
The festival raises money for the Goodman Community Center (formerly known as the Atwood Community Center), so you can get a little wild, and feel good about yourself at the same time.
Here's the line-up:Â Harmony Bar/Capital Brewery Blues Stage
12:00-12:50 pm Kristy Larson Honky Tonk Band: A little country music never hurt you! The Kristy Larson Trio won a couple of Madison Area Music Awards in 2009..and it looks like she'll bring a few more musicians this time around!
1:10-2:00 pm Piper Road Spring Band: How about some bluegrass? The Piper Road Spring Band has been playing together for more than 35 years, with bluegrass that's far from traditional. They've been known to weave in some Grateful Dead inspired jams!
2:20-3:10 pm The Alex Wilson Band: Alex grew up immersed in the Milwaukee/Chicago blues scene and picked up the guitar at the age of 5. He's a little older now and ready to impress you with everything from Beale Street blues to Chicago swing.
3:30-4:20 pm The Midwesterners: At the border of classic rock and country--that's where you'll find the Midwesterners. Led by veteran Madison musician Richard Weigel, it also features the highly charged guitar of Ernie Connor from the Rousers.
4:40-5:30 pm Altered 5: This Milwaukee based blues band takes pop and rock songs and "bluesifies" them! This is one of Gabby Parsons' favorite area bands.
5:50-7:00 pm Jim Schwall/Andy Ewen Band: What a combo! Jim Schwall was half of the famed Siegel-Schwall Band that played places like the Fillmore..sharing the bill with folks like Janis Joplin and the Doors. And Andy is the seemingly ageless guitar player and singer for the band Honor Among Thieves. Sparks have got to fly when these guys get together.
Maximum Ink / Ale Asylum Rock Stagetimes not listed, but this is the schedule in orderThe Shtetlblasters: Madison's very own electronic klezmer band.
The Kingtown Rockers : Madison band described as reggae with a touch of metal.
VO5 : They want you to party like it's 1978! A funk/disco/dance band from Madison.
Soul Shaker: Blues band from Madison. ..self-described as "dirty blues rock for yo dirty minds." Influences include Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac, Humble Pie, and Muddy Waters.
Beatallica:Â Beatles meet Metallica. 'Nuff said.
UPDATE 8/2/10: The concert has been confirmed!
As Mr. Willie Nelson's website explains, there has been a "Willie-leak." Earlier today Willie Nelson had a slip of the tongue while on The Bill Mack Show on XM radio (Willie's Place is Willie's XM channel) when he revealed that the location for Farm Aid 25 will be Milwaukee, WI. The date of Farm Aid is reportedly October 2, 2010, but few details beside a date have been revealed. More details will be officially released Monday August 2, 2010.
Willie Nelson, Neil Young and John Mellencamp organized the original Farm Aid concert in 1985 to raise awareness about the decline of family farms. Farm Aid was established to prevent family farms from losing their land while providing financial aid to local farmers. Last year Farm Aid was held in St. Louis, Missouri and featured a great lineup of artists including Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, Neil Young, Dave Matthews Band, Wilco and many more. For more information about Farm Aid musicians and other general inquiries, head over to the Farm Aid site and check it out.
As more details about this amazing event are released, Triple M will make sure you are informed. Until then, check out Willie and Neil rocking Farm Aid 2009!
Independence Day is right around the corner and the celebration is happening at Warner Park right here in Madison, WI on Saturday July 3rd. Rhythm & Booms 2010 has returned for the 18th year, and this year will surely be as great as past years. Rhythm & Booms is an annual Fourth of July celebration that draws over 250,000 people a year to Madison to enjoy the festivities.
This year there will be some great music on the Leinie's/WOLX stage including Road Trip from 2-4pm, followed by Super Tuesday from 5-7:40pm, and finally Creedence Again from 8-9:30 and then 10-11:30.
Remember to bring your radio and don't miss the fireworks at dusk choreographed to music broadcast on 94.9 WOLX!
So, if you are in or around Madison this weekend and are looking for a good way to celebrate America with your fellow country men and women, head to Warner Park on July 3rd.
For more information and complete details regarding Rhythm & Booms, check here.
My long weekend at Bonnaroo has sadly come to an end as I have returned to the Triple M office. Â I had an absolutely amazing experience and enjoyed nearly every moment (the exception being waking up sweating and finding little relief all day). Â The music throughout the weekend was diverse and sounded great. Â The atmosphere and crowd was friendly and kind. Â Bonnaroo was a wonderful experience and I highly recommend the festival to anyone and everyone no matter your musical taste. Â I am already looking forward to next year!
As far as music goes, my top three performances of the weekend include the hometown Kings of Leon, rapper and all around entertainer Jay-Z, and the smooth yet funky sounds of Daryl Hall and Chromeo. Â All performances throughout the weekend were very solid.
Our humble campsite
Inside the Centeroo area
Relief from the heat and humidity in Centeroo
Thousands of people and cars equals...mud.
The King of all stages, The What Stage! Â During Nas and Damian Marley
The second largest stage, the Which Stage
There are three stages about this size, this is the That Tent
Umphrey's McGee performing Friday afternoon at the Which Stage
British folk rockers Mumford & Sons
Indie rockers Local Natives on Thursday
Mayer Hawthorne and the County jammed their groovy sound late night
I hope this was not the first and last live show by these guys together, Daryl Hall and Chromeo
The famous Bonnaroo bobbleheads were painted in World Cup uniforms this year.
The wonderful people of Bonnaroo dancing in the glistening sun. Â The man in neon has a sign that reads "Smile! You're at Bonnaroo!" I will admit, I smiled a few times this weekend.
A short clip I shot of Damian Marley with Nas performing the Bob Marley's "Could You Be Loved" to close up their set.
A short clip I recorded of Mumford & Sons playing their song "Little Lion Man." Â Be sure to check out their release Sigh No More.
Bonnaroo 2010 was a huge success! Â Already anticipating next year!
If you are interested in some professional video footage from Bonnaroo, here is a link to the official YouTube Bonnaroo channel.
-Sam Ryan
Waking up bright and early in a steamy tent is getting a bit old. Especially after only a couple hours of sleep.
Another amazing day here down on the farm. Yesterday was a great day with great performances from artists like Stevie Wonder, the Avett Brothers, Mumford and Sons, Jimmy Cliff, and Jay-Z. My performance picks of yesterday include Mumford and Sons and Jay-Z. Mumford and Sons put on a great blue grass rock performance and hit on all the tracks from their most recent release "Sigh No More."  For being such a young band Mumford and Sons sounded perfectly together with each other. The crowd for the Mumford and Sons show was the most diverse crowd yet including people of young and old.
On the other end of the spectrum Jay-Z brought the most energy of the festival thus far. The entire What stage (largest stage) crowd was jamming out with Jay for his entire set and dancing the night away. Jay-Z was an artist who I always wanted to see live and I am so happy I was finally able to because HOVA was absolutely fantastic. I will have Jay-Z lines in my head for the next few weeks.
Music that I am most anticipating today includes the Dave Matthews Band and Phoenix. I am not the biggest Dave Matthews fan out there, but I have never had the chance to see Dave live and am looking forward to the bands performance to close down Bonnaroo. Phoenix released a free live from Sydney download a few months ago and after listening to the release I am anticipating a great show.
I have been having a great time here at Bonnaroo and it is crazy to think that the last day is here. I am looking forward to the music all day today and anticipating the long drive ahead. Although leaving the farm after a great weekend will be rough, a nice cold shower and sleeping in my own bed are positive reasons getting back to the real world will be nice.
Last day of 'roo, here we come.
-Sam Ryan
Another amazing day here at Bonnaroo. The atmosphere here is outstanding. Walking around this festival site you will cross paths with many many different people sorts of people. Along with that I have found it interesting when conversing with others the wide range of bands people are here to see. For some reason I had in my head that most people were here to essentially see the headliners like Kings of Leon and Jay-Z, but everyone I have talked to has mentioned a different band for their most anticipated set. The music diversity within this festival is awesome and the festival goers truly appreciate that.
My top sets for Friday include Kings of Leon, Nas and Damian Marley, and also Tenacious D.
KIngs of Leon were the main headliners last night taking the What Stage (Largest stage) for a 9:30 set when no one else throughout the festival was playing. The crowd was absolutely massive and the local boys represented well. Their sound was perfect, they had great energy and crowd presence, and they played literally all the songs I wanted to hear them play. I have been a Kings of Leon fan for a while, but my friend Dean was not that familiar prior to their show. I think Dean summed up the performance best when after the show he said to me, "Wow, I am going to have to get all their music from you⦠I think I may have just gained a new favorite band." The boys who grew up just down the street as they described rocked the festival grounds and the Tennessee crowd loved it.
Nas and Damian Marley also performed on the What Stage, but instead earlier in the afternoon. Nas and Damian Marley released a collaboration album a few weeks ago titled "Distant Relatives" and played most songs from the album. As much as I enjoyed the material off "Distant Relatives" what sealed the deal for me was the cover of poppa Bob Marley's "Could You Be Loved." I have always thought that Damian sounds the most like his father of any of the sons. The blue sky and green trees surrounding the stage made for a perfect afternoon of thinking I was in fact at a Bob Marley concert.
But to not be out done, the rock and roll f-bomb laced intensity of Tenacious D delivered grandly between Nas and Damian Marley on the What Stage. I had never seen Tenacious D before but after this performance I would love to see them again. The backing band for Jack Black and Cage was very talented and kept the guitar heavy rock smoothly going. Entertainment value alone this show was top notch. Jack Black's facial expressions are a work of art that cause me to crack up when I just see him grinding his ax. Absolutely loved Tenacious and highly recommended to anyone looking to be entertained and rocked out of mind at the same time.
As for today, Saturday, I am most looking forward to Jay-Z, Mumford and Sons, The Avett Brothers, The Dead Weather, and Deadmau5. I am sure today will be another great day of music. I hope the sun takes some pity on my shoulders. I didn't think I would be saying this, but rain would be very refreshing today. It has been blazing hot and sunny, which is amazing yet brutal.
I will do my best to keep updating all you Triple M fans and listeners as to what is going down here on the farm.
-Sam Ryan
Hello Triple M fans! What a night...
Last night was the first official night of Bonnaroo 2010. Â Despite my high expectations, the music along with atmosphere was/is amazing. Â Some first impressions of the atmosphere include the pure size of this festival along with the wide array of interesting people.
The festival grounds are absolutely massive. Â At least 5 huge stages with tents covering the area in front of the stages. Â The largest stage, named the What stage, did not have any performances on it last night so I am looking forward to seeing the epic crowd at the What stage later tonight.
There are vendors of all kinds including a "Broo" tent where you can try some of the finest micro-brews in the Tenneessee region. Â I have not been able to explore all the areas of Centeroo because by the time I was in Centeroo and listening to music the sun was setting making exploration slightly more difficult. Â Today should be a great day of exploring Centeroo and experiencing some of the best people watching in the world.
As far as music goes, my highlights of the night include Local Natives, Mayer Hawthorne and the County, and finally Afrojack. Â The Local Natives sounded beautiful as they played through nearly every song of their freshman release Gorilla Manor. Their sound was crisp, the band was energized and thankful for the Bonnaroo crowds support. Â I recommend giving Gorilla Manor a listen if you have not yet.
Mayer Hawthorne and the County is neo-R&B band from Ann Arbor lead by the smooth singing mastermind Mayer Hawthorne. Â I was not expecting a great set from the young band for some reason. Â I guess I was expecting a slightly watered down sound, but Hawthorne delivered. Â The band has so much energy and was rocking harder than I anticipated. Â If you like a poppy soul and R&B sound give Mayer Hawthorne a listen.
And finally, my night cap last night was Afrojack. Â This dutch DJ absolutely destroyed his set making the masses groove and boogie the night away. Â I have known about Afrojack for a while now, but I had the feeling last night that even within the large crowd many were not familiar with Afrojack or the artists he included in his set. Â Despite this hesitance the crowd was fully on board rocking out. Â I think and hope that this country will soon embrace the party music of choice as electronic. Â I sadly lost a pair of sunglasses in the chaos of Afrojack, but that is a small price to pay for the fun I had.
As far as today goes, my plan is to explore the Centeroo area while trying to stay cool in the hot humid Tennessee sun. Â My most anticipated shows for today include Damian Marley and Nas, Kings of Leon, Daryl Hall and Chromeo, and LCD Soundsystem.
I will continue to update Triple M fans and listeners as best I can. Â The internet is slightly spotty along with cell reception, but I will do what I can. Â I hope all is well in good old Madison, WI and I look forward to a great day of music.
-Sam Ryan
Dear Fellow Music Enthusiasts,
For those of you unable to attend the Bonnaroo Music Festival this year, I hope these blog posts allow you to live vicariously through a 22 year old college student on her long-awaited pilgrimage. Hopefully Iâll inspire you to embark on your own musical odyssey. For me, the countdown is nearly at zero. Weâre all packed up and ready to go and weâll soon be en Roote to Bonnaroo!
I couldnât be more excited to head down to Tennessee. I am an obsessive planner, so Iâve be reviewing the lineup and stage schedules for weeks. However, my friend Gregor will be taking a more focused approach: get Zooey Deschanel to dump Ben Gibbard so they can run away together. Weâll see if that plan works out....  Perhaps Regina Spektor is available instead.
Thanks to generous friends and family, weâll arrive and camp at Bonnaroo in style. Iâm not an avid camper, but I think Iâm ready for anything. Now the trick is weighing who to see. Decisions, decisions!
My MUST see:
Miike Snow, Stevie Wonder, Phoenix, Regina Spektor, Weezer, She & Him, Jay-Z, and Kings of Leon
Artists new to me that are of serious interest:
Disco Biscuits, Tokyo Police Club, Japandroids, The Temper Trap, and Les Claypool
With pit stops at the Silent Disco and the Brooery, weâll see if I have time to sleep!
Iâll be posting throughout the festival and sending photos too, so be sure to check back! Thank you to all who voted for me, thanks to you my dream is coming true! Here we go! Wish us luck!
Abby Braatz
Hello Triple M fans and listeners. Â My name is Sam Ryan and I am the digital content producer intern for Triple M radio here in Madison, WI. Â Through this position I have been extremely fortunate and have been given the opportunity to cover this weekends Bonnaroo music festival in Manchester, TN.
The idea of going to Bonnaroo has been in the back of my mind for the past couple years, but has usually fallen short due to lack of time, money, or some other issue within members of a group. Â But finally I am able to go and I can't express my excitement for this experience enough.
To cover Bonnaroo I am bringing my good friend and recent UW graduate Justin Dean, known to most friends simply as Dean. Â Dean too has a love for music and it will be great being able to share music knowledge and experience with him and the other tens of thousands at Bonnaroo.
When I found out I would be heading to Tennessee as the representative for Triple M this year, I instantly went to the active forums of Inforoo and weeded through topics and finding good-to-know nuggets from experienced 'roo-ers. Â I have thrown together a list of items to bring that is very similar to other packing lists I have seen on the internet. Â Some of my note worthy must haves are a flagpole with "motion W" UW flag for flying high at our campsite and marking the great city of Madison's territory at the fest, a 30gb ipod loaded with strictly Bonnaroo performer music, instant coffee for the caffeine fix, and a selection of vintage NBA jerseys for the (cross my fingers) beautiful sunny days.
I have a tendency to try not to look at the projected weather for more than a couple days before an event, but yesterday I had to look at the ten day forecast for Manchester, TN. Â I will admit, my findings were not great. Â It looks like scattered thunderstorms are likely for my four days in Tennessee. Â Could be interesting, but as the Local Natives say, "Who knows, who cares." Â Regardless of weather, I am sure Bonnaroo 2010 will be an experience of a lifetime.
Moving on to the main purpose for a Bonnaroo weekend, the music!  The lineup for Bonnaroo is absolutely amazing.  For the first six or seven glances at the lineup I was still finding artists I did not see before.  The depth of the number of great artists is amazing as well as the large breadth of genres covered. The festival begins Thursday afternoon and caps off Sunday night as Dave Matthews wraps the festival up. As I look over the schedule here are my most anticipated sets for the weekend.
Thursday
@7pm-8pm Local Natives
@7:30pm-8:30pm Miike Snow
@10pm-11pm The Temper Trap
@11:30pm-12:45pm The xx
@1am-2am Afrojack
Friday
@2:30pm-3:30 Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
@4pm-5:30pm Nas and Damian Marley
@5:45pm-7:15pm The National
@9:30pm-11:30pm Kings of Leon
@12am-1:30am Daryl Hall and Chromeo
@2:30am-4am LCD Soundsystem
Saturday
@3:30pm-5pm Jimmy Cliff
@4:45pm-6:15pm The Avett Brothers
@5pm-6:15pm Mumford and Sons
@6pm-7:30pm The Dead Weather
@8:30pm-10:30pm Stevie Wonder
@11:30pm-1:30am Jay-Z
@2:15am-3:45am Deadmau5
Sunday
@2:45pm-4pm Jamey Johnson
@3pm-4:15pm Regina Spektor
@7:15pm-8:45pm Phoenix
@9pm-11:30pm Dave Matthews Band
Link to the Official Bonnaroo Schedule if interested.
Interested in some Bonnaroo tunes?
As readers can see, there will be more than a few scheduling issues that will arise over the four days of music. I will navigate around these issues to the best of my ability and take note of as much as I can. Again, I am very excited for this experience and I look forward to giving Triple M listeners and readers a view from 'Roo!
5/28 - Bier Garten Opening Night @ The Capital Brewery Feat. The Westside Andy / Mel Ford Band, 6pm, The Capital Brewery (Middleton)
Blues Brother Dan Aykroyd calls Andy Linderman âone of the most dynamic electric harmonica players of our generation.â Jazz performer and producer Ben Sidran calls Mel Ford âone of the finest blues players in the Midwest if not the country.â Put âone of the most dynamic electric harmonica playersâ on the same stage as âone of the finest blues players in the Midwest if not the countryâ and you have one of the most exciting blues groups in the country: The Westside Andy & Mel Ford Band. more info
5/30 - Madison Marathon, Madison Capital Square (Start and Finish), 7am
The Madison Marathon is an annual 26.2 mile foot race that covers much of the city of Madison. Along with the 26.2 mile run, there is a half marathon, a half marathon walk, a quarter marathon, a kids race, and a wheelie race. The race starts and finishes around the scenic Capital square in the heart of downtown Madison. For more information and registration click here.
5/31 - Monona Memorial Day Parade, Route from Monona Drive to Pflaum Road, 10am
Join the Celebration of 55 years for Wisconsin's largest and longest running Memorial Day Parades will consist of more than 100 units. For everone's enjoyment there will be military color guards, clowns, marching bands, live animals, fire trucks, scouts, floats, antique autos, local elected officials, dance groups and much more. The 1.5 mile parade route will start just past Monona Grove High School and travel south on Monona Drive left on Pflaum Road disbanding at Sennett Middle School. more info
5/28-5/31 - Bratfest, Willow Island â Alliant Energy Center, more info
Brat Fest is 4 days filled with music, food and fun in the heart of downtown Madison, Wisconsin. The Worldâs Largest Brat Fest is held every Memorial Day weekend â rain or shine â with all proceeds benefiting the local charities that help to staff the event. Brat Fest is also about enjoying good food at great prices while celebrating Wisconsinâs heritage and the people who make Madison a great place to live.
Date
Time
Performance
Stage
Friday, May 28th
11:10 AM - 12:10 PM
Art SchlosserArt Schlosser is a street musician from Madison, WI specializing in novelty songs.
Axley Brynelson Stage
Friday, May 28th
12:40 PM - 1:40 PM
Mud Angels Mud Angels are a blues rock band from Madison, WI.
Metcalfe's Entrance Stage
Friday, May 28th
4:10 PM - 5:20 PM
Selfish GeneSelfish Gene is a three-piece rock band from Madison, WI.
Madison Blues All-Stars
Local Madison blues artists together at Bratfest!
Metcalfe's Entrance Stage
Sunday, May 30th
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Lucas Cates and Friends: Josey Wails Duo, Mike Tecku, Katie ScullinLucas Cates brings his pop-rock sound to Bratfest and is joined by friends including the Josey Wails Duo, Mike Teku, Katie Scullin
Axley Brynelson Stage
Sunday, May 30th
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Mark Croft
Local singer/songwriter Mark Croft set to perform a pop-rock set
A new music festival is scheduled this summer in Milwaukee. The Verge Music Festival is a two day alternative rock music festival scheduled for June 4 and 5 at Summerfest Grounds along the lake in Milwaukee. The Verge lineup includes both local and national artists including Weezer, She & Him, Cold War Kids, Rogue Wave, Locksley, and more.
Here are some videos to tide you over until June 4-5.
She & Him "In The Sun"
Rogue Wave "Lake Michigan"
-Sam Ryan
Lollapalooza created quite a buzz this year by revealing their lineup one letter at a time. Today, the wait is finally over...the lineup is here and is shaping up to be pretty awesome! Lollapalooza takes places in Chiacgo's Grant Park Aug 6-8.
* Soundgarden
* Green Day
* Lady Gaga
* Arcade Fire
* The Strokes
* Phoenix
* Social Distortion
* MGMT
* Jimmy Cliff
* Hot Chip
* The Black Keys
* The National
* Spoon
* Devo
* Cypress Hill
* Cut Copy
* The New Pornographers
* Erykah Badu
* Slightly Stoopid
* Grizzly Bear
* Gogol Bordello
* Chromeo
* Wolfmother
* Yeasayer
* X Japan
* MUTEMATH
* Metric
* Dirty Projectors
* AFI
* Mavis Staples
* Matt & Kim
* The xx
* Drive-By Truckers
* Blues Traveler
* Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
* The Temper Trap
* Jamie Lidell
* Frightened Rabbit
* F**k Buttons
* Deer Tick
* Blitzen Trapper
* Stars
* Raphael Saadiq
* The Cribs
* Minus the Bear
* Switchfoot
* The Walkmen
* Mumford & Sons
* Wild Beasts
* Rogue Wave
* Los Amigos Invisibles
* The Big Pink
* The Dodos
* Hockey
* Cymbals Eat Guitars
* B.o.B
* Dawes
* Warpaint
* The Antlers
* The Soft Pack
* Rebelution
* Balkan Beat Box
* Wavves
* American Bang
* The Ike Reilly Assassination
* Company of Thieves
* Nneka
* Harlem
* The Constellations
* Miniature Tigers
* Mimicking Birds
* The Kissaway Trail
* HEALTH
* Javelin
* The Morning Benders
* Foxy Shazam
* Violent Soho
* Royal Bangs
* Freelance Whales
* Semi Precious Weapons
* Dan Black
* The Band of Heathens
* Dragonette
* My Dear Disco
* Shawn Fisher
* Neon Hitch
* Skybox
* The Ettes
* Jukebox the Ghost
* These United States
* MyNameIsJohnMichael
I'm not sure why Pete Yorn decided to name his new music project after a European cave dwelling aquatic salamander, but if he stops by to play us some songs in Studio M, we'll have to ask him.
The Olms is a collaboration between Pete Yorn and...
Today's song was written by Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary. It was inspired by the 1957 novel Doctor Zhivago. No one was inspired by the song this morning. It was rejected by almost all the listeners.
Today is World Goth Day, a day to celebrate the post-punk, anti-establishment, dark clothes-wearing subculture.
I'm pretty sure I was a Goth for at least for little while, for two reasons.
1) I almost hardly ever wear pastels.
2) I used to...
Hello to all from Nfusion. Another round of challenges has moved beyond us all. Congrats to those of us lucky enough to have survived to this point. Sad to see the others eliminated as they were all very creative and talented. Good Bye to our new friends...
This morning it seemed like just about everyone was in the mood for some Funky Cold Medina...except Kitty. This ridiculous song made it all the way to number 3 in 1989. Jonathan says any song that references advertising dogs from the 80's has got...
Madison's summer music festival season kicks off this weekend with Brat Fest at Willow Island, where there are more bands than you can shake a bratwurst at! Check out the Brat Fest website to plan your itinerary.
Next up is the Marquette...
John Fogerty is making the talk show rounds this week, stopping in to see David Letterman Tuesday and Wednesday, and the ladies of "The View" on Thursday.
He's promoting his new album, "Wrote a Song For Everyone" which comes out next Tuesday...
It's a miracle that both Jonathan and KItty wanted to hear Barry Manilow this morning. They were not alone. Plenty of Fanilow's called in to vote yes. One caller claimed to have seen Manilow in concert 25 times!
I'm not sure why Pete Yorn decided to name his new music project after a European cave dwelling aquatic salamander, but if he stops by to play us some songs in Studio M, we'll have to ask him.
The Olms is a collaboration between Pete Yorn and...
Today's song was written by Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary. It was inspired by the 1957 novel Doctor Zhivago. No one was inspired by the song this morning. It was rejected by almost all the listeners.
Today is World Goth Day, a day to celebrate the post-punk, anti-establishment, dark clothes-wearing subculture.
I'm pretty sure I was a Goth for at least for little while, for two reasons.
1) I almost hardly ever wear pastels.
2) I used to...
Hello to all from Nfusion. Another round of challenges has moved beyond us all. Congrats to those of us lucky enough to have survived to this point. Sad to see the others eliminated as they were all very creative and talented. Good Bye to our new friends...
This morning it seemed like just about everyone was in the mood for some Funky Cold Medina...except Kitty. This ridiculous song made it all the way to number 3 in 1989. Jonathan says any song that references advertising dogs from the 80's has got...
Madison's summer music festival season kicks off this weekend with Brat Fest at Willow Island, where there are more bands than you can shake a bratwurst at! Check out the Brat Fest website to plan your itinerary.
Next up is the Marquette...
John Fogerty is making the talk show rounds this week, stopping in to see David Letterman Tuesday and Wednesday, and the ladies of "The View" on Thursday.
He's promoting his new album, "Wrote a Song For Everyone" which comes out next Tuesday...
It's a miracle that both Jonathan and KItty wanted to hear Barry Manilow this morning. They were not alone. Plenty of Fanilow's called in to vote yes. One caller claimed to have seen Manilow in concert 25 times!
Although summer is nearing an end and schools will soon be starting a near year, you still have opportunity to fully enjoy your summer right here in Madison!
This weekend is the Orton Park Festival presented by the Marquette Neighborhood Association. Â This year will be the annual festival's 45th year and will feature a diverse lineup of performances. Â The Orton Park Festival has purpose of creating and growing community and friendship. Â The festival is free of charge, but funds raised throughout the festival will go to implement community projects and organizations.
What is a festival without music? Â Well we are in luck because Orton Park Festival will feature a great lineup of music and other performers. Â The schedule for the four day event is as follows.
Thursday, August 26th
Family Night (Ice Cream & Soft Drinks for sale):
Ride the Drive
Sunday August 29
Downtown Madison/John Nolen Drive (
Art Fair on the Square
Capitol Square, Saturday July 10 (9am-6pm) and Sunday July 11 (10am-5pm)
Art Fair on the Square is an event organized by the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art that brings artists from across the country to downtown Madison to present and share their works. Of the over 1600 applicants from across the nation, 450 artists were selected to join Art Fair on the Square and 30 percent of this years artists are first time participants.
Art Fair on the Square will contain a vast array of arts including ceramics, drawing, graphics, prints, glass, sculpture, mixed media and much much more.
Be sure to check out the Triple M Music Stage while at Art Fair on the Square. There will be great music all weekend long pumping from our stage on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. The schedule for the Triple M Music Stage includes...
Independence Day is right around the corner and the celebration is happening at Warner Park right here in Madison, WI on Saturday July 3rd. Rhythm & Booms 2010 has returned for the 18th year, and this year will surely be as great as past years. Rhythm & Booms is an annual Fourth of July celebration that draws over 250,000 people a year to Madison to enjoy the festivities.
This year there will be some great music on the Leinie's/WOLX stage including Road Trip from 2-4pm, followed by Super Tuesday from 5-7:40pm, and finally Creedence Again from 8-9:30 and then 10-11:30.
Remember to bring your radio and don't miss the fireworks at dusk choreographed to music broadcast on 94.9 WOLX!
So, if you are in or around Madison this weekend and are looking for a good way to celebrate America with your fellow country men and women, head to Warner Park on July 3rd.
For more information and complete details regarding Rhythm & Booms, 
5/28 - Bier Garten Opening Night @ The Capital Brewery Feat. The Westside Andy / Mel Ford Band, 6pm, The Capital Brewery (Middleton)
A new music festival is scheduled this summer in Milwaukee. The 
