Chicago-based music tastemakers Audiotree may be best known for some of their studio sessions with your favorite bands, but this past Friday and Saturday, they took over downtown Kalamazoo to bring some of those musicians to one stage for their annual festival. Although Audiotree, a big part of the crowd, and a few of the acts on the lineup all hailed from Chicago, the festival did a great job of curating local fare by bringing in Michigan based food trucks and beer from local breweries. The curators also succeeded in booking a diverse lineup that featured everything from psych rock to rap music. While there was never a dull moment over the course of those two days, here are the moments that stole the show.
Noname Drew in the Friday Evening Crowd
Chicago's on the rise spoken word artist/vocalist/rapper Noname has already had an unstoppable year, playing major festivals like Osheaga and Lollapalooza. Her sunset performance at Audiotree Music Festival on Friday evening completely hooked the small, but mighty festival crowd with her compelling cadence. Her 45 minute set included some of her most popular tracks like "Diddy Bop" and "Reality Check," as well as some shoutouts to fellow Chicagoans like Saba and Kanye West. One of the most memorable moments in her set happened only a few songs in when she told the crowd they could move up, and there was a notable shift of everyone rushing forward to soak in the magnetic performance. Noname will be performing Concord Music Hall in November as part of Red Bull's 30 Days in Chicago, so make sure you catch her there if you missed her summer festival performances!
Noname performing during her sunset slot at ATMF
Lizzo Activated and Instilled Confidence in the Crowd
Hip Hop singer Lizzo brought a vivacious and energetic performance to the Audiotree Festival stage, but her nonstop show also featured a powerful message. While she encouraged the crowd to dance and sing along to her songs like "Phone" and "Water Me," she also encouraged everyone to take a stand in the world. Mentioning some of the current problems of the world, Lizzo said the only way to get through the horrible happenings is to come together and activate. She also instilled the confidence in her audience that they can all do whatever they put their mind to, no matter what anybody says. She put on an inspiring show just a couple weeks back at Loufest, but every time she hits a stage, Lizzo spreads positivity and love. You can also catch her in Chicago this November with Red Bull Sound Select's 30 Day festival.
Lizzo and her ladies getting Friday night at ATMF going
Campdogzz Warmed Up the Crowd During the Day's Peak Heatwave
Chicago's own Campdogzz warmed up the stage on the second day of Audiotree Music Festival. Although the seasons technically shifted into Fall a few days ago, the temperature during Campdogzz's set was reminiscent of the dog days of Summer, reaching mid 90s...with humidity. Although the temperature during their 30 minute set was nearly unbearable, lead singer Jessica Price's unique voice and the chemistry displayed between the band members still got the crowd engaged. The group flawlessly performed new songs off of an upcoming album, which all held onto their signature sound, but showcased their development and expansion as musicians since their last album.
Jessica Price of Campdogzz on Saturday afternoon
Liz Cooper's Set Brought on a Wind Tunnel
The Nashville based nomad Liz Cooper and her band (aka The Stampede) kept it cool while they played through their laid back, country-tinged rock tunes. Throughout the set, the band's easygoing nature shone through, especially when Liz made the most of the fan onstage, which gave her a natural windswept look as she sang her songs with her signature earnest and raspy vocals. Throughout the set, you could tell Liz and her bandmates were enjoying themselves, which translated to the crowd getting lost in the moment too.
Liz Cooper and her windswept look on Saturday
Active Bird Community Made Their Michigan Debut
NYC's Active Bird Community has been playing together since they were in middle school, for more than ten years, but when they hit the stage on day two of ATMF, they mentioned that the festival was their first time playing in Michigan. Although they'd never played nearby before, the music hungry crowd eagerly absorbed songs from the band's earlier days and their 2017 album called Stick Around.
Active Bird Community's frontman Tom D'Agustino during their Saturday set
Charly Bliss Played New Songs While Jetlagged
The Brooklyn based four piece fronted by Eva Hendricks also performed in the peak of Saturday's heat wave, but they still got the crowd into their show and moving in the sun. Decked out in a baby pink dress, Hendricks completely rocked the stage with her bandmates, even though they'd just gotten back from a tour around The U.K. Hendricks told the crowd they'd be performing a few new ones, and they went over incredibly well despite the jet lag.
Pinegrove Got Shady
Pinegrove frontman Evan Stephens Hall took the stage during Pinegrove's late afternoon set donning green sunglasses that matched his t-shirt, due to the blazing hot sun still beaming down on the audience and stage. After a few songs, Hall told the crowd that he wished he didn't have to wear the sunglasses because "eyes are the best way to show you mean it" but he asked the crowd to trust him anyways. Despite the sunglasses barrier, Hall and his bandmates still managed to connect with the crowd, who were all ardently echoing the words back to songs like "Old Friends" and "Cadmium." If you're based in Chicago and missed Pinegrove's set, go see them at Thalia Hall this November, where Hall will be performing sans sunglasses.
Evan Stephens Hall and his sunglasses during Pinegrove's set
Twin Peaks Played Some Sweet Singles
The energy of day two at Audiotree Music Festival peaked (pun intended) when Chicago legends Twin Peak hit the stage with a surge of energy that never lulled. Their hour long set included some of their most popular tracks like "Butterfly," "Walk To The One You Love," and "Making Breakfast," but the band also performed some of their "Sweet '17 Singles" like "Tossing Tears" and "Shake You Lonely" for one of the first few times. Twin Peaks always steals the show when they're part of a lineup, but this refresh to their setlist added another layer to their usually incredible show. Twin Peaks will be taking over Chicago's Thalia Hall for three nights at the end of December, so ring in 2018 with one of their rowdy performances.
Clay Frankel of Twin Peaks leaving it all on the stage
King Gizzard Dedicated a Song to Charles Bradley
During the early afternoon on Saturday, news broke that the soulful legend Charles Bradley had passed away. A few songs into King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard's 90 minute set that night, the seven piece band dedicated a song to Mr. Bradley, with vocalist/guitarist/flutist Stu Mackenzie saying, "This one's for Chuck." Outside of the heartfelt dedication, their headlining set kept up a pulsating pace that never let up and included several live debuts of tracks from the group's first album of 2017, called Murder of the Universe. Their explosive set acted as the perfect wrap up of Audiotree Music Festival 2017. Some lucky Chicagoans got to witness a similar performance at Lincoln Hall last night, and the super group returns again tonight with Mild High Club.
Stu Mackenzie closing out the night with King Gizzard
Check out the full gallery featuring Noname, Lizzo, SuperDuperKyle, Campdogzz, Liz Cooper and the Stampede, Active Bird Community, Charly Bliss, Pinegrove, BadBadNotGood, Twin Peaks, and King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard!
Already got the post-Pitchfork blues? Relive all the fun with our photo gallery of the incredible weekend, and check out our daily highlights featuring some standout moments during the performances.
Chicago based company Audiotree has become known as a tastemaker over the past few years. Taking artists of all different calibers and genres and giving them a means to showcase their live performances, Audiotree records live sessions in-studio and at local venues, opening up a world of discovery for music fans and a window of opportunities for musicians. In addition to these live sessions, Audiotree also puts on an annual music festival in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and this year they've got their best lineup yet. Headlined by Australian psych rockers King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard and rapper SuperDuperKyle, the two day festival has a little something for everyone. Check out the entire line up below, and grab your tickets here before they're gone. Single day tickets start at a mere $32.50 for GA with VIP options, and you can snag a two day GA pass for $60.
Another year at Union Park has come and gone, with many standout moments in between Friday afternoon and Sunday night. By the time Sunday rolled around, the crowd at Pitchfork had definitely dwindled down (three days of nonstop music can really get to you), but the performances were still topnotch. If you missed the festival and didn't opt to have Pitchfork couch party with the live streams, here's what you missed at the final day of Pitchfork!
Kilo Kish Got Theatrical
The LA based multi-talented Kilo Kish opened up the festival on Sunday, getting a little theatrical on The Green Stage. As Kish took the stage, it almost felt more like a Broadway musical was about to begin, rather than a festival performance. Kish's work as a visual artist definitely bled through into her performance as a musician. The multi-faceted and dynamic performance also featured dancing from Kish and she remained emotive while singing, which made for a perfectly well-rounded start to Sunday at Pitchfork.
One of the many expressive faces made by Kilo Kish
Danny Pudi Watched NE-HI
Chicago's own NE-HI had quite the draw at The Green Stage despite their early slot at 2:30PM on the last day of the festival. Among the thrones of locals coming out to support their own, actor and comedian Danny Pudi, who is best known for his role on Community, was spotted watching NE-HI's set. Regardless of their audience, NE-HI gave the same energetic performance they always do, with guitarist Michael Wells doing his signature high jumps and lead singer and guitarist Jason Balla throwing himself around the stage as he strummed his guitar. If you missed NE-HI at Pitchfork, catch them in the fall with fellow Chicagoans Whitney.
Jason Balla of NE-HI
Vic Mensa and Towkio Crashed Joey Purp's Set
Things got rowdy by 4PM on Sunday when Joey Purp took the stage with the support of his DJ Knox Fortune, Peter CottonTale of The Social Experiment, and a whole lot of bass. The crowd at The Blue Stage immediately went wild, reciting the Chicago based rapper's words back to him. During Purp's set, fellow Chicago rappers Vic Mensa and Towkio made a surprise appearance. Purp's set highlighted the collaborative nature of the Chicago music scene.
Joey Purp rapping to a packed crowd
Pinegrove Practically Hosted a Singalong
Some music festivals draw people in for the fashion or the non-music activities, but at Pitchfork most of the folks are there simply to enjoy their favorite bands. While devoted music fans staked out to see their favorite artists all weekend, none seemed more dedicated than those that watched the New Jersey natives of Pinegrove perform on Sunday evening. From the instant that lead singer Evan Stephens Hall sang the first note, the audience became a backing choir, loudly singing along to every word in songs like "Old Friends" and "Then Again." Hall fed the energy right back the enthusiastic crowd, giving a passionate performance.
Evan Stephens Hall mirroring the energy of the crowd
Jamila Woods Got Moved To The Main Stage
Another Chicago artist at Pitchfork this year, Jamila Woods got a much deserved stage bump on Sunday evening when her set got moved from The Blue Stage to The Green Stage. Unfortunately, The Avalanches had to cancel at the last minute due to a family emergency, so the poet and singer songwriter filled in for their slot on the main stage. Many fans had camped out all day to see Solange, and they got treated to an elegant and well-rounded performance featuring Wood's silky vocals and her boisterous backup singers. The Chicago music scene is alive and well thanks to talented songwriters like Woods, and we can't wait to see what else 2017 has in store for her.
Jamila Woods singing in the sunshine
The festival may be over, but our coverage isn't! Stay tuned for a full photo gallery of the entire weekend, coming tomorrow, and check out our social media for some sneak peeks at photos. Also make sure to checkout our highlights from the firstand second day.
Headliners Solange, A Tribe Called Quest, and LCD Soundsystem close out each night at this year's Pitchfork Music Festival. While we're excited to see these incredible acts who all contribute their own artistry in addition to great music, we're equally as excited to catch these seven non-headlining acts during the annual Pitchfork Fest next week. With so many talented musicians playing over the course of three days, it's hard to narrow down our picks, but these are the acts on the very top our list.
Francis and the Lights
If you couldn't tell from our Eaux Claires highlights, we're big fans of Francis Farewell Starlite and his work. Certain parts of his debut album may be an acquired taste, but once you dive into Farewell, Stalite! it's hard to come up for air from the addictive melodies and Starlite's distinct vocals, which have drawn some comparisons to Peter Gabriel. In recent years, Francis has also collaborated with Kanye, Justin Vernon, and Chance The Rapper. Besides his massive stage presence and smooth dance moves, you may just want to catch Francis's set for the possibility of guest performers. Chance has been showing up during his set at festivals throughout the summer, and at Eaux Claires, Francis invited some of the crowd up onstage to have a dance with him. To make sure you're in on all the fun, catch him Saturday at 5:15 on The Blue Stage.
Credit: Rachel Zyzda
For Fans Of: Bon Iver, James Blake, Blood Orange
Start With: "See Her Out (Thats Just Life)" and "May I Have This Dance"
NE-HI
It's been a whirlwind of a year for the Chicago four-piece NE-HI...putting out their sophomore album Offers in February (including an exclusive vinyl version at Shuga Records), performing on JBTV, and now playing one of the biggest festivals in their hometown after touring consistently. The group effortlessly encapsulates the vintage, fuzzy rock sound and feel-good melodies that has become such a signature feel of Chicago rock'n'roll music. That sound coupled with their high energy performances makes them a must-see on the final day of Pitchfork. Catch them Sunday at 2:30 on The Green Stage. They'll also be playing a special Pitchfork after show at Lincoln Hall on July 15th. Grab tickets here.
Credit: Bryan Allen Lamb
For Fans Of: The Walters, Twin Peaks, White Reaper
Start With: "Stay Young" and "Sisters"
Priests
This post-punk group from Washington, D.C always pushes the limits on their sound, delivering a refreshing and sonically diverse debut album Nothing Feels Natural this past January. Since then, Priests has been perfecting their high energy set while touring relentlessly. Catch them bright and early Friday at 1:45 on The Green Stage. They'll also be performing Saturday, July 15th at Schubas Tavern; grab your tickets here.
Credit: Audrey Melton
For Fans Of: Chastity Belt, Sheer Mag, Bully
Start With: "JJ" and "Appropriate"
Frankie Cosmos
Fronted by Greta Kline, who has adopted the stage name Frankie Cosmos, this outfit from NYC craft dreamy, indie pop tunes perfect for a festival. The upbeat melodies paired with Kline's ethereal vocals on songs from their two albums Zentropy and Next Thing will be sure to get the crowd dancing. Don't miss them on Friday at 5:15 on The Blue Stage. Frankie Cosmos will also be performing alongside Hoops at The Virgin Hotels on Friday evening. Get the scoop on that show here.
Credit: Matthew James-Wilson
For Fans Of: Japanese Breakfast, Alvvays, Diet Cig
Start With: "Young" and "Fool"
Pinegrove
Another east coast group, Pinegrove, has been all over the place this year, touring in support of their 2016 record Cardinal. The album features a raw approach to capturing frontman Evan Stephens Hall's vocals; their sound standing out from other indie rock outfits thanks to their slight country twang. The New Jersey band has also become known for their evolving live lineups consisting of many of their multi-talented bandmates, like Nandi Rose Plunkett, who fronts her own project called Half Waif. Regardless of their set up, their show at Pitchfork is one you won't want to miss. Catch them Sunday at 5:15 on The Blue Stage.
Courtesy of Brace Yourself PR
For Fans Of: (Sandy) Alex G, LVL UP, Whitney
Start With: "Old Friends" and "New Friends"
Angel Olsen
The Chicago via St. Louis singer-songwriter Angel Olsen puts a raw and retro spin on her building and often brooding narratives. Her newest album My Woman has received rave reviews from both fans and critics, and Olsen has just announced another tour in the Fall to follow up her current festival run. Her show at Pitchfork will undoubtedly be one of the most captivating performances of the festival. Catch Olsen's performance Saturday at 6:15 on The Green Stage.
Credit: Amanda Marsalis
For Fans Of: Mitski, Molly Burch, Big Thief
Start With: "Unfucktheworld" and "Shut Up Kiss Me"
Vagabon
With her soft yet powerful vocals that instantly hook listeners, Lætitia Tamko (aka Vagabon) will be sure to deliver a compelling set at Pitchfork. Although it's only eight tracks long, the New York based multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter takes listeners on a winding sonic journey during her latest album Infinite Words. You can experience these visceral songs by catching Vagabon on Saturday at 1:00 at The Green Stage. Vagabon will also be performing at The Beat Kitchen on July 15th (tickets here) and The Virgin Hotel on July 16th.
Katie Thompson
For Fans Of: Jay Som, Daughter, Girlpool
Start With: "Fear & Force" and "Cold Apartment"
Check out the entire schedule for Pitchfork Festivalhere to plan out your entire weekend, and don't forget to check our gig calendar for all of the after shows too! 3 day passes for Pitchfork are still on sale, starting at $175. Grab them here.
