(You’re reading Day 3. Be sure to check out Day 1 and Day 2!)
The third and final day of a festival is always bittersweet: you know you’ll miss the free-spirited, listen-to-music-all-day-instead-of-the-rest-of-your-life vibes, but on the other hand, you’re tired and your feet hurt. It’s your last chance to catch some great set or discover a new artist.
I started at the main (JaM Cellars) stage for Goldie Boutilier because someone told me that she was the “next big thing,” and that I’d regret having missed the chance to shoot her if I didn’t do it now. In truth, I’m not sure I agree. I didn’t connect with her at all. She came across as trying too hard, and I couldn’t seem to locate the human beyond the stage persona.
Later, back at the JaM Cellars Stage, I caught Grace Bowers & the Hodge Podge. I missed seeing them last year and heard from everyone I knew how much they’d enjoyed them. I knew better than to miss them twice, and I completely get the fuss. Bowers is an absolutely gorgeous little blonde thing who plays the shit out of her guitar while simultaneously singing her face off. I was completely captivated by her, and her band (the Hodge Podge) were all excellent as well.
I took a little detour past the Williams-Sonoma Culinary stage just so I could peek at blindingly handsome Antoni Porowski, who I love from Queer Eye. I only stayed long enough to get a few snaps of him (those arms!!), but it was worth my time. He’s adorable.
Later, I went back to the JaM Cellars stage for Allen Stone. I hadn’t seen him in over a decade (since last time he played BottleRock, actually, which was the first year back in 2013). I’d forgotten how phenomenal his voice is – it’s truly something to behold. I particularly enjoyed his cover of Bob Marley’s “Is This Love?” It was a treat to spend an hour with his golden voice wafting on the breeze.
Later, I returned to the main stage for Goose. They played a great set, and it was nice to get to hear more from them, as their music is relatively new to me. They have the kind of lower-energy, excellent musicianship that works so well at a festival in the late afternoon: it was a perfect chance to recline on the lawn with a cocktail and something yummy.
Next up for me was Khruangbin, who I know from their work with Leon Bridges. I wasn’t really sure what to expect, and while I think they’re a great band, they were terribly boring to watch. I heard most of their set from the monitor in the media room and was enjoying it, but I wouldn’t bother to see them live again.
After Khruangbin, the sun started to set, and it got chilly fast. There was an air of tiredness hanging low in the evening, but I couldn’t wait to see Cage the Elephant. I’ve seen them a few times before, but they’re a band whose music I consistently love, so I was anticipating their set. They emerged amid a sea of pyrotechnics, and their energy was incredible. I particularly enjoyed “Cigarette Daydream,” “Come a Little Closer,” and “Neon Pill.” Special thanks to the band for getting me through the rest of my day!
Finally, the wonderful Noah Kahan closed out the weekend from the main stage. I’d seen him once before, but I really enjoy what he does, so I relished the chance to hear him again. It was also fun to watch the throngs of young ladies swooning and crying just like they do for the proverbial heartthrob. They’re so sweet and they love him so much; he’s so kind to them in return. It’s truly heartwarming to watch! A Noah Kahan show is a good time, and this was no different. It was a great way to end a long, fun weekend of live music.
Thanks for joining me. See you next year!
