Summer in Houston, Texas is not for the weak and that’s why Free Press Summer Fest has always been a beast. However, it’s a beautiful celebration of music and community that’s in it’s 8th year of existence. FPSF is an event that basically proved to everyone that Houston needed and wanted a big music festival. I’m happy to brag that I’ve attended every year and look forward to sweating it out this weekend with thousands of others. Here’s a quick guide to bands that you should check out.
Saturday
Walker Lukens & The Side Arms – Neptune Stage. 11:30
Lukens & crew REALLY know how to stir up a whirlwind of soulful rock and or roll that will be sure to kick off your festival the right way. His latest single “Lifted” is a pretty good representation of what he’s got in the toolbox. Mixing sampled vocal loops, punchy keys, howling vocals and most important, hair whips.
The Coathangers – Neptune Stage. 12:30
These three ladies pack more attitude into their music than you can probably handle…Yeah, that’s a challenge. They just released a terrific album named “Nosebleed Weekend” Let them punch you in the face with their punk rock and I’m sure you’ll leave bleeding, but smiling.
Chicano Batman – Venus Stage. 2:10
These guys take a heroic leap across genres mixing funk, latin, vintage tropicalia and soul into tasty psychedelic fun. You’ll want to bring your smile and a dance partner.
Zola Jesus – Mercury Stage. 4:10
Incredible voice and my GOSH always such a strong on and off stage presence. Nika is intense and adventurous using electronic orchestration to build a mood that’s undeniably infectious. Her incredible collaboration with J.G. Thirlwell named “Versions” on Sacred Bones Records is nothing short of a masterpiece.
White Denim – Venus Stage. 6:50
Holy guitar riffs Batman! If you haven’t checked out the latest from White Denim named “Stiff” you’re missing out. Such strong, feel good songs that’ll make you move. Nothing is holding this band back from being a big dang deal.
Matt & Kim – Saturn Stage. 7:10
If you want to leave the fest smiling, this is the duo to check out! Such a positive energy pouring off the stage. That’s really all I can say, they are great and you’ll dance.
Sunday
Another Run – Mercury Stage. 12:00
Houston, TX. You’re very lucky to have a band this good in your city. Progressive rock with a lot of heart. This performance will be their homecoming off a big cross-country tour. They’re worth heading to the festival early. Say hey to Bob for me.
Matthew Logan Vasquez – Neptune Stage. 1:20
Front man of Delta Spirit who’s bottled up his creative energy and released a brilliant collection of songs on his own in “Solicitor Returns” released earlier this year. He brings the same fun energy that you’d expect. Don’t miss this!
San Fermin – Venus Stage. 2:10
This band stands alone….meaning that NOBODY is doing what they’ve set out to accomplish. Two vocalists and an onslaught of horns, keys, strings, etc. Absolutely brilliant live and rock and roll in an entirely different category. Their release “Jackrabbit” from 2015 was complex and amazing.
Against Me! – Venus Stage. 5:40
Not too many bands out there pushing the limits of social and political commentary in a very approachable way. Fist pumping music in it’s highest form.
Big Grams – Mars Stage. 6:30
Absolutely love collaborations and this is a good one. Big Boi from Outkast with those incredible folks from Phantogram! My gosh.
Violent Femmes – Venus Stage. 7:30
What am I supposed to write here except “Big hands, I know you’re the one.”
Free Press Summer Fest takes place at NRG Park June 4-5 2016
Tickets and information can be found here WWW.FPSF.COM