As summer winds down, we have one last big fest–Riot Fest–and it’s packed with bounce and thrash and passion. Punk is an attitude, an energy; there is not just one way to embody it. Though it can be hidden in recordings, when you’re watching a band live, it’s undeniable. Riot Fest 2019’s lineup sports a blend of new and old punks—punks that might also be classified as pop, hardcore, rap, or psych.
There’s something for everyone, whether you can’t enjoy a show without the possibility of a bloody nose or don’t think concert-going should be a contact sport. We used our (completely fallible) crystal ball to predict the mosh-inducing factor of these bands’ performances and shared the highlights below. If we know anything about punks, though, they can turn any music into a mosh pit. We hope you’ll get in the thick of it and throw your body against another human. This is what it is to feel alive, just come at it with joy and a sense of community and watch out for each other.
Three more (quick) pieces of advice:
- Go early to see some of the best up-and-coming.
- Pace yourself. This fest requires endurance.
- Drink water, not just beer and other people’s sweat.
Monarchy Over Monday | 12:00 at the Rebel Stage
Mosh Factor: They have the energy, but it might be too early for the crowd
Formed in 2016, these guys are among the newest bands all weekend. They bring a soaring psych guitar sound to a driving punk sensibility. Show up early and cheer on our hometown!
Masked Intruder | 12:15 at the Roots Stage
Mosh Factor: Slack jaw amazement might outweigh need to mosh
We’re suckers for a good concept album, so when you make a concept band, we are all in. Most of their songs have some sort of reference to law breaking. Even love songs! “We were meant for each other, beyond a shadow of a doubt”- brilliant! And they wear primary color ski masks! They go by the color of their mask, Red, Blue, Yellow, and Green, which brings to mind the Power Rangers. There is just too much. We cannot miss seeing this in person.
Cherry Glazerr | 1:45 at the Rise Stage
Mosh Factor: This music is more about turning the violence inward
We did a review of them, which really says it all. Lead vocalist Clementine Creevy is a rock god worthy of your worship. Come see for yourself.
Turnstile | 1:55 at the Roots Stage
Mosh Factor: Elbows and knees will be thrown
This band has more energy than a stage can contain. Raw thrash. One of the most chaotically entrancing performances we’ve reviewed. Don’t miss them.
The Selecter | 3:25 at the Radicals Stage
Mosh Factor: Skanking circle is a must
There are only a couple Ska bands on the lineup this year, and this UK band are legend. Perfect blend of bounce and angst.
Grandson | 4:45 at the Radicals Stage
Mosh Factor: Seething horde
Rock with glistening effects and electronic elements that come together for an angry, thrashing, body-moving package.
The Struts | 6:00 at the Rise Stage
Mosh Factor: Rocking bodies might find an excuse for contact
GLAM!!! We are hoping they will give us something pretty to look at along with their throwback rocking music.
Rise Against | 7:25 at the Roots Stage
Mosh Factor: Anger will be unleashed
Highly political and thoughtful hardcore. This Chicago band doesn’t turn away from a tough topic, but instead creates harsh beauty out of it.
Andrew WK | 7:30 at the Rebel Stage
Mosh Factor: Party hard, mosh hard
If you’d rather just party, skip Rise Against for this guy. He has an energy that must be seen to be believed.
Riot Fest Official | Facebook | Lineup | Schedule | Tickets