At most music festivals, the headliners are typically the acts that draw you in, getting you to invest your time and money into watching two or more days of live music in some of the most random locations around the world. However, festivals are also all about discovering new music, and yes, that means getting there early. Take a peek at our short list of bands playing earlier in the day at Hangout Fest that you absolutely cannot miss...then come find us at the festival and dance with us during these sets. 

Rainbow Kitten Surprise

As the old saying goes, don't judge a book by its cover. You also shouldn't judge a band by its name...at least in this case. Hailing from Boone, North Carolina, Rainbow Kitten Surprise blend unique vocal tones with infectious, melodic riffs for a sound completely different than what you'd expect based on their band name. And man, do they know how to put on a live show. Catch them playing Fitz's Stage at Hangout Fest on Saturday at 2:30PM.

For Fans Of: Lewis Del Mar, Alt-J, Modest Mouse, Sir-Sly

Start With: "Cocaine Jesus" and "Devil Like Me"

A R I Z O N A

Having only been around for about a year, this trio of producers from Jersey are blowing everyone's expectations out of the water. With catchy choruses and their clean production style, the band has earned their huge streaming audience (they have over 9 million monthly listeners on Spotify).  A R I Z O N A's debut album actually comes out the first day of Hangout Fest, so they're sure to pack even more energy into their set than usual. Get to know more about this new band by checking out our interview, then go see them at Hangout on Saturday at 1:30PM on the BMI Stage. 

For Fans Of: Kevin Garrett, FRENSHIP, LANY, Jack Garratt

Start With: "I Was Wrong" and "Oceans Away"

Strand of Oaks

The multi-talented, singer-songwriter and producer Timothy Showalter, (AKA Strand of Oaks) leaves his stamp on his diverse and dynamic songs with his distinct voice. With some songs that lean more towards the folk realm, and others like "Everything," with its amped up guitar layers, Showalter's set will be sure to have a little something for everyone. Make sure you get down to the Mermaid Stage at 2:45PM on Sunday to catch him! Get ready for the show by listening to the newest album, Hard Love. 

For Fans Of: The Lumineers, Big Thief, Band of Horses, Bright Eyes

Start With: "Radio Kids" and "Shut In"

Foreign Air

The somewhat mysterious duo Foreign Air craft hypnotizing tunes with infectious melodies that will be sure to have you moving. With a debut EP, called For The Light, and a new single under their belt, there's no telling what will be in store for Foreign Air once they release their debut album. Head down to the BMI Stage on Friday at 4PM to dance on the beach to the sweet sounds of Foreign Air. 

For Fans Of: Glass Animals, Foals, Local Natives, Sylvan Esso

Start With: "In The Shadows" and "Call Off The Dogs"

White Reaper

Louisville, Kentucky based rockers are taking 2017 by a storm with their new album The World's Best American Band. Live, the band exert incredible energy, putting everything they've got into delivering an unforgettable rowdy and electrifying performance. If you want to blow off some steam with some good ol' fashioned Rock'N'Roll, go see them at The Mermaid Stage at 2:30PM on Friday.

For Fans Of: Twin Peaks, Ty Segall, The Orwells, Fidlar

Start With: "Judy French" and "The Stack"

Check out the full Hangout Fest line up here, and make sure you follow us on all our social media to get real-time updates next weekend!