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 moshing music. 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.
Ganser | 12:25 at the Radicals Stage
Mosh Factor: too busy contemplating
Expect post-punk artistic tendencies from this Chicago band. Their soundscapes are like watching angry French films. The vocals come through a haze of reverb, and the guitar/bass is central to the sound.
Kali Masi | 1:30 at the Rebel Stage
Mosh Factor: We will be disappointed if there isn’t. No pressure.
They have all the bravado/fun and all the angst/rage. Kali Masi’s a band that is as much fun to watch as they are to listen to. Coming off a tour with Less Than Jake (3:00 at the Rise Stage), playing Riot Fest is a great way for them to cap off summer 2019.
Sincere Engineer | 3:40 at the Rebel Stage
Mosh Factor: Stand and let the music bend you
Sincere Engineer is another Chicago band gracing today’s lineup, and also among the newer groups on the scene, having formed in 2017. They have a fresh set of angst to get you, and lead vocalist Deanna Belos has a killer growl as she bellows.
Against Me! | 3:55 at the Riot Stage
Mosh Factor: Anger this epic must be expressed
One of our favorite transports to Chicago, Against Me!’s Laura Jane Grace, has given us one of our new favorite anthems to our fair city, “I Hate Chicago.” (Admittedly, it was released under her self-named band, but I have seen Against Me! perform that song.) Sadly, we will not likely hear it as they are doing two full album performances. Can’t be sad to sink your teeth into these:
American Football | 5:30 at the Rise Stage
Mosh Factor: Slow moving mass to chill
This band has a lot more air in their music than the typical punk band. Elements of jazz overwhelm their sound. Although they seem like a band that should have been at Pitchfork, we think it’ll make for a nice contrast towards the end of the fest. (I wouldn’t be surprised if they go a little harder when they’re surrounded by all that thrash.)
The Raconteurs | 7:25 at the Roots Stage
Mosh Factor: Crowdsurfing is a definite
This band brings an indie blues rock sound to the Riot Fest lineup. And Jack White. Need we say more?
Bikini Kill | 8:30 at the Riot Stage
Mosh Factor: As if there is no tomorrow
Since the lineup was announced, this is the one people have been talking about. If only one headlining band will be female led, at least they picked a good one. Feminist with every word, thrash, and bead of sweat.
Riot Fest Official | Facebook | Lineup | Schedule | Tickets