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Kris Rothstein's Blog

Pickathon Festival Report: Saturday

Kris Rothstein

Armed with lessons learned from yesterday, I drank more water, less cider, walked slowly and stayed in the shade whenever possible.

Everywhere I looked folks were having a good time - they were friendly and ready to chat. They appreciates the music and they were VERY willing to try new auditory experiences. Young kids and seniors alike danced and headbanged to LA glam/psych band Meatbodies. I had asked frontman Chad Ubovich if he planned anything more folky for Pickathon and he said, hell no, he would be rocking out, and hard. This even though I have many times seen him play in a pair of overalls. This time he wore a cape. The tunes were huge.

I then entered the steamy Galaxy Barn for Billy Strings and Don Julin, a bluegrass duo who were joined by standup bass player. This was real hootenanny territory but too notch playing and modern lyrical material. There was much whooping and it was well deserved.

I take back what I said about bands tailoring to their stage. The heavy bands I love just rocked out intensely. Ty Segall was insane in the tiny steamy Galaxy Barn. Wand played their psych rock with extra jams, extra noise and extra intensity. I don't think it was intentional, but it was perfect for early evening at the Treeline Stage.

In the glades, kids and adults alike jammed on guitars, banjos and even trombones. This was midway through the festival and things geared up accordingly. It was a busy day full of so many different kinds of music and everyone was energetic - enjoying the sounds, the craft beers and the food trucks. I couldn't even mind the wild times which seemed to be going on all night.

Next. Late nights bands and a more sedate Sunday.

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