Back In The Sun Havin’ Fun @ Forecastle

Forecastle is a gem of a festival! Waterfront Park is a perfect location for the expanded festival, with lots more room for interactive art installations and fun smaller stages. The crowds were large, but not as stifling as the massively large crowds at Bonnaroo. I started yesterday on the Harbor Lawn’s East Stage with the Black Diamond Heavies. They played a smokin’ set (how can just two people make all that massive music?) and DJ Nick James’ fiancée and I took turns trying to imitate lead singer Reverent James Leg’s distinctive gruff voice. Next I headed over to the West (main) Stage to catch most of Grace Potter And The Nocturnals show. The size of the crowd steadily increased during their set, and I really enjoyed the show they put on. Then it was time to get set for one of the bands I really love, Cake. I was a bit disappointed in their show, especially compared to one I saw at the Palace Theater several years ago. I believe this wasn’t all Cake’s fault; some bands (The Flaming Lips for example) make great festival bands. They’re big, flashy with lots of interactive things going on like lasers and giant balloons rolling around. Cake’s music is more subtle and John McCrea’s lyrics are chock full of sly humor and imagery. This gets lost in an outdoor setting where there’s tons of people watching going on. Throw in talking to your friends and running back and forth to get liquid refreshments, Port-A-Potty stops, and before you know it you’ve stopped paying attention to the music. DEVO grabbed everyone’s attention (maybe it's the suits) and put on a fine, fun show. My husband has been singing Jocko Homo’s chorus ever since: “Are we not men? We are DEVO!” Lots of blue DEVO helmets could be spotted among the crowd, and of course, I had to buy one. My friends and I had a blast taking pictures looking totally DEVO. After their show I had to retire (missing We Were Promised Jetpacks & The Smashing Pumpkins sucked!) but I get up at 5:45 am to do my Saturday morning show on WFPK. I must admit going home to my own shower and air-conditioned bedroom was a perfect end to a perfect day of music. Thank you Forecastle! I’ll be back to see She & Him, Spoon and The Flaming Lips tonight.