On the surface, not much changes from seasonal festival to seasonal festival here in Bend. Like clockwork, streets are closed off, artisans sell their wares, food carts sprout up and music is played.
It’s really the lineup of bands that makes one festival better than another. This year’s Fall Festival, held Oct. 5, 6 and 7 in downtown Bend, is poised to stand out. Expect to see some of Portland’s best talent, funk from 3,000 miles away, and a favorite local band that’s been away far too long.
If you hear something that sounds good as you shop for some pottery, taste some wine or eat your favorite meat-on-a-stick—chances are it will be coming from one of these recommended bands.
Radiation City
Friday, Oct. 5, 5 p.m.
The Peak 104.1 Mainstage
Portland’s aristocrat-styled electro-pop group, Radiation City has found a formula that works. The band has landed on the Tender Loving Empire record label, which represents such successful regional acts as Jared Mees and The Grown Children, Typhoon and Y La Bamba. Their hollowed-out samples and sophisticated lo-fi vocals have just enough pop drizzled over them to brighten up their sound. So don’t be surprised if, as the sun sets on the festival’s kick-off concert, you feel like you’re in a dark, velvet ensconced ‘70s Vegas hotel room.
Photo taken by Mike Harper.
Sophistafunk
Friday, Oct. 5, 7 p.m. & Saturday, Oct. 6, 5:30 p.m.
The Peak 104.1 Mainstage
Double your pleasure with two sets from Syracuse New York band Sophistafunk. Don’t let the name of this band fool you. While their reggae-inspired funk is clearly not lower-brow, their music is more primal and raw than it is perfect for a pinky-in-the-air afternoon tea. Lyrics are delivered via quick tempo raps, and both shows will likely morph into giant dance parties.
Photo taken by Dan Gottesman.
Larry & His Flask
Saturday, Oct. 6, 7:30 p.m.
The Peak 104.1 Mainstage
Larry and His Flask, Central Oregon’s very own banjo-rock-and-roll band, is in the middle of an East coast tour but will take seven days off and return to town long enough to set the Fall Festival mainstage on fire. The rock-hard folk sound of LAHF makes bands like Mumford and Sons feel flaccid. Harmonies pack a big punch and, unlike Mumford, the songs refuse to become whiney. Don’t miss this show.
Photo taken by Lisa Johnson.
