Night Two at the Big Turn Music Fest in Red Wing, Minnesota. After a great on Friday, I raced home for the radio show on Saturday (so much fun with DL Demonica and Langen Goldstein!) but that means I got a late start on Saturday – but the weather was so much better than I expected, and the lineup was fierce!
The Double Down Daredevils – a great start, selected because it was close to the Airbnb, but it was perfect. The harmonies and folky sound washed the rush of an hour-long drive right out of my system.
Jeremy Messersmith – can’t believe my luck in catching him, because I was still taking path of least resistance. The church was filled like Christmas morning. HIs music is clever and uplifting. Shifted my mood from calm to raring to rock.
Lena Elizabeth – a treat to see Lena. She doesn’t play out as much as she used to, and we love having her as a guest years ago. Her bluesy voice complements her smart lyrics.
Alexandra Green – best promo picture award goes to Alexandra Green – hands down. Her music was equally enjoyable. Her music was entirely new to me, and I’ll be sure check her out again – even if it means a drive back to Red Wing.
TimisaRocker – I’ve been hearing about how amazing this band is for years – yet I think this is my first experience. It will not be my last. Great punk rock and fantastic theatrics.
The Customers – delighted to catch a band I always enjoy. They had a few folks out dancing and the crowd, at a place I have seen be picky, seemed to just love them – deservedly so!
Small Town Sindrome – another new band to me and I just learned they come from Grand Rapids MN, one of my favorite towns. What’s not to like?
Wiggin – a Red Wing band was a shift to quieter, thoughtful music. Staged in the Framing Shop, it was a welcome, peaceful reprieve.
Favourite Girl – it was a delight to see Katy Vernon’s new band in a glorious church. The sound filled the space, The music is uplifting, feminist anthems and touching personal songs.
Dessa – do I need to say more? She played the biggest venue and the venue was full. But the nice thing about a festival – it’s rotating full, which means I got in for a few songs. She is not overrated! The sound, the passion – whoa.
Candy Cigarette – a young band from Wisconsin and man could they play. You wonder how some folks can get decades of guitar experience into a 15 your old body!
Pullstring – who isn’t pulled by Pullstring. Plenty of opportunities to see them in the Cities but where better place to get nostalgic vibes than Red Wing. You can always count on solid rock from them.
The Nunnery – I will never pass up the opportunity to see The Nunnery in a church. I saw her last year (maybe year before) and loved it. Loved it again. It’s mystical and fun with the audience helping to make the music.
Willows – this was a super bonus band for sure. Their picture was a little misleading but the band was great and I hear the folk in the music but I can also see some night club music.
Portside Dive – Loud fast rules with a great young following. Lots of backtrack and fancy gizmos behind the hard code music but it was great once it got going.
Corey Medina & Brothers – the good news/bad news about the show – I couldn’t get close to the band. I was delighted to see it for Corey and turns out you can hear him even when you can’t see him. Always a favorite!
HIAHLI – I’ve seen them before and liked them. I still like them. The music is intense, hip hop but grungy enough to catch my attention. The energy alone is worth it.
Speakeazie – always mesmerizing. I love her story, her music and her vibe. It’s fun to watch the audience react to the different levels of the performance. Fun to watch the dad of a preteen decide one layer was enough – but not until the song was done.
Valors – I’ve always liked Ian Valor but I think I like them more each time I see the band. It’s smokier, rockier, louder or something but I’m here for it.
Hastings 3000 – it’s always fun to see Hasting 3000. I feel like there were some technical difficulties but always fun to see him!
Charlie Parr – fantastic to end the night with Charlie Parr and Mikkel Beckman. The room was full and jumping despite two full days of music under our belt. Charlie suits any room.
Mostly Minnesota 