Here’s a quick-and-dirty guide to the Forecastle Festival, with some suggestions for non-headlining bands.
Friday —
Bassnectar is today’s headliner, on the Mast Stage, but if you like actual songs played by a real band, then you’ll be at another stage. If the thought of a sub-20 hz bass drop makes you insanely happy, however, this guy is the reason you bought a ticket. For something similar, but more interesting both musically and intellectually, try Flying Lotus (Red Bull Stage).
Rock and indie-rock fans will have more fun on Saturday and Sunday, but there are some strong choices today with Lucero and Beach House (Boom Stage), Dean Wareham and Cherub (Starboard), and Sleigh Bells (Mast).
The Port Stage is dedicated to Kentucky bands, and today’s schedule is pretty phenomenal from start to last. Nerves Junior, Houndmouth, Wax Fang and Sleeper Agent perform, in that order, from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m.
Saturday —
My Morning Jacket is the headliner, and the Mast Stage is pretty stellar all day, with Andrew Bird, Dr. Dog, Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Everest.
But you’re going to want to stray to the smaller stages for sets by The Features and Futurebirds (Starboard) and, if you’re really feeling the festival vibe — drinking, dancing, floating — Galactic and Girl Talk (Boom Stage) or Washed Out (Red Bull) should do the trick.
The Port Stage is great again with King’s Daughters & Sons and Daniel Martin Moore.
Sunday —
Today’s theme is, loosely, alternative Americana, but with some substantial diversions.
Wilco is the day’s headliner, and there isn’t a better live band. Kindred spirits such as Neko Case and Deer Tick will join them on the Mast Stage, while old friend Kelly Hogan will be on the Starboard Stage (and likely making appearances on the Mast).
Random sets well worth a listen include Clutch (Boom), Cloud Nothings (Mast), Fruit Bats and Ben Sollee (Starboard) and Minnesota (Red Bull).
