In 2012 a musician and sound engineer much beloved by the scene named Jamie Duffy was taken too soon. In an effort to pay tribute and help his family, a group of bands collaborated to create a music festival. Eight years later it has continued to grow and thrive as a celebration of music, counter culture, and dancing. Somehow in those previous seven years I have never attended this festival. This year I am changing that. I figured I would create a preview of each of the four days line up. Then try to share them before I head to Gotham City this weekend. Friday is sold out but tickets are still available for the other days and I would love to share my Cold Waves deflowering with as many of you wonderful people as possible.
Day 2 was the first day to sell out and it is an amazing lineup. I will be charging to the front of the stage like the big goth Saint Bernard while I am dancing like a 42 year old demon in sensible shoes. Lets break down this lineup.
On the Smart bar side Physical Wash from Portland OR. Susan Subtract of High Functioning Flesh does a synth slither dance groove with obscure samples and growling chant vocals. Some lovely heavy pad work here.
Patrick Codenys of Industrial forefathers Front 242 does an EDM DJ set spun by a master of the craft. If this doesn’t get you shaking you might need to hit yourself with the paddles because you are dead.
At Metro Chicago’s own Wing Tips are an amazing retro dream flow of beauty playing a party in the post modern world. The duo of Vincent and Hannah transport you to the dark parts of science fiction and high school melodrama. I’m so excited to finally see them live I may spin myself into a tizzy.
Klack is our most recent review of Madison WI dynamic duo of Matt Fanale and Eric Oehler. They mix fierce dance beats, witty humor, and electric energy with an old school flair and dynamic grinding style. There is a chance I might loose my shit for this so be forewarned and give space.
Just wow, Shannon of Light Asylum is a force of nature. Crackling explosions coupled with the rawness and elegance both of Grace Jones and Patti Smith. The odds of Rachel having a fan girl breakdown during this performance is currently 10/1 and I will not be betting against that action.
When Haujobb had to cancel IVardensphere of Alberta stepped up to fill some big shoes with there pounding rhythmic sonic assault. Furious beats fired at you through a particle accelerator.
Metro closes out with Electronic music deities Nitzer Ebb . I think the last time I saw them was in Chicago in the 90’s and it is a experience which changed my view of music. An engine of burning sound running red straight through your bloodstream . Even if you didn’t save anything this will be a shot of pure adrenaline.
Food trucks are available, lay down a base. Stay Hydrated. Bring your most comfortable footwear. By day two this will be a marathon not a sprint and you will not want to miss a moment.
