Yeah, a few days have passed since MusicFestNW, the massive music festival that takes over nearly every venue in Portland, wrapped up, but that's how long it's taken me to wrap my head around the awesomeness that was this fest.
While it's impossible to make it to even half of the shows on the slate, I did my best to bounce around and capture some video evidence and here's just a sampling. I'll load you up with more video later in the week.
GIVERS (Friday night, Doug Fir Lounge): I missed this Louisiana indie pop act at Sasquatch earlier this summer and was sure to be on hand for this late-night gig at the Doug Fir. Keep an eye on this band of uber-talented act that combines indie rock conventions with some zydeco sounds from their hometown.
Explosions in the Sky: (Saturday, Pioneer Courthouse Square): First off, seeing a show in a public square like Pioneer Square's natural amphitheater setting is a damn unique experience. And if that show features the dynamic instrumental rock symphonics of Explosions in the Sky, that's even better.
Blind Pilot: (Saturday, Crystal Ballroom): Just a few days before rolling out their new album, We Are the Tide, these Portland folk darlings got the sweat flowing in the incredibly hot Crystal Ballroom which included a cover of Simon and Garfunkel's "Cecilia."
Blitzen Trapper: (Friday, Crystal Ballroom): Another Portland band with a new album out, Blitzen Trapper ripped through a classic rock-ish set that I was enjoying before the 110 temperature forced me outside for some fresh air. But still, very impressive stuff.
