The second day of Pitchfork started much like the first with an angry sky that interfered with my listening. After getting a late start I managed to get to the fest just as Cults were sound checking through the rain drops. Then the music festival gods decided enough was enough and the sun welcomed Madeline Follin to the stage.
After a slow start to the first song balance wise and taking into account the large tarps covering many of the speakers to prevent damage from the rain, this band gave the crowd exactly what was needed, as evidenced by a group of girls standing just behind the photo pit barricade screaming every word — with one girl claiming she could now die happy. I’ve had the pleasure of shooting this band live several times in the past 2 years and each time they showthey get better and better.
It was then time to boogie my way across the fest grounds to the Blue Stage to catch Youth Lagoon. Hands down best decision I made yesterday. I only discovered this act when I saw their name on the lineup for the festival. Needless to say, I’m already a fan. Trevor Powers’ tattooed hand reads “be still.” and that is such great summation of his music. Airy, trippy, pretty music drifted through the mostly tree covered area and the fans soaked up every second. This is an act that I would easily go see again and I’d highly recommend the same for you.
Wild Flag was next on the list and these gals killed it. The band, hailing from Portland, captivated the audience and commanded your attention. The energy grew throughout the set and helped with the transition from hot middle of the day to an evening of high energy acts.
Energy is exactly what I got during Sleigh Bells’ performance. I wasn’t a Sleigh Bells fan when the day started, but frontwoman Alexis Krauss changed my feelings. It was impossible to not be blown away by her. Performing the whole set with a giant ear to ear smile in between head banging, jumping, and high kicking, It was clear she was having fun. This has been the stand out performance for me so far. Fan or not, they put on a great set with the fog machine, leather jacket, spiked bracelets and all. This was a rocking set.
The sound quality wasn’t as great as I would have liked. From where I was standing, the vocals were overpowering at times. But, that did not stop me from enjoying every second of the set and I was definitely not the only one. A nice sized dance circle broke out next to me in a giant mud pit. That provided some of the best people watching and entertainment of the night. Imagine 20 or so people ranging in age bouncing and grooving to Hot Chip while gradually losing articles of clothing. One could only assume the drugs they most likely were enjoying were slowly starting to kick in. After the amazing dance display and hearing Hot Chip do “Over and Over”, I knew it was time to call it a day. Time to go and try to wash the majority of the mud off. Only to know, I will most likely be covered again by days end on Sunday.
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