Summerfest Day 2 Preview
Illiterate Light - 4:00 PM @ Generac Power Stage
Bombargo - 4:30 PM @ Miller Lite Oasis Stage
Before even getting to the music, this band deserves your respect. For three shows this summer (in VA, MD, and NJ) the rock duo will complete the 700 mile tour via biking, a dream sparked by the sight of bikes lined up at the Newport Folk Festival in 2019. All shows are free and they are inviting fans to bike along with them. That is pretty damn cool.
The band’s spotify description describes Jeff Gorman (Guitar) and Jake Cochran (drums) as “Farmers-turned-rockers”. I’d argue to take that description a step further because these two are more than just “rockers”. Versatility is a given in their music, so I am eager to hear what they pull out of the bag for their early Saturday set.
A similar choice during roughly that same time slot is the Canadian-bred band Bombargo. What sticks out most about this group is their crispy clean production, which amplifies their sounds of pop-soul to a new level. Lead singer Nathan Thoen leads the group; his energy is a steady pulse that steers the band higher and higher. “Let It Grow” is a great example of this.
6 PM - Substitute: Tales from the Who @ Uline Warehouse Stage
6:30 PM - Eggy @ Miller Lite Oasis
You really can’t go wrong with any of the Indie acts on Friday. Eggy joins the list. The group will bring some floaty melodies that will pair well with (hopefully) a perfect summer evening at Summerfest.
Or, you could choose to revert back to an older sound and check out the cover band - Substitute: Tales from the Who. This will set you up nicely for the next marquee show I have listed: Grand Funk Railroad.
Grand Funk Railroad @ Uline Warehouse Stage 7:30 PM
Choo, Choo Baby! A classic American band will be stopping by the Uline Stage Friday night to give the Summerfest crowds a much-needed, always accepted dose of 70s Rock. With a show like this, usually what happens is the longer the band plays for, the more songs you’ll recognize. Best enjoyed with tailgate food and a beer in hand.
Mike Posner @ Miller Lite Oasis Stage 10 PM
No lie, I woke up to the tune of “Cooler Than Me” playing in my head this morning. The announcement of Mike Posner was a late pull for this year’s lineup, and summerfest is bound to get their money’s worth. Posner backs his music (especially his pop hits) with a certain swagger that lets you really feel what he is saying. He owns his sound, undoubtedly. And that sound has taken a more laid-back style with his recent releases, so I am interested to see how his show comes together.
Hozier - 7:30 PM @ American Family Insurance Ampitheater
Hozier is tonight’s headliner at the Amphitheater. He seems to have played a show in this slot at every music festival I have ever been to, and this year is no different. In attendance will be some of Hozier's ultra-loyal following, so good luck matching their energy if you get the ticket.
