One of the most amazing aspects of living in the Palm Springs area is the diverse array of special events, shows and festivals. When it’s not blazing hot, there’s an event for almost everybody on any given weekend. This week finds the Coachella Valley in the middle of week one and week two of the Coachella Music Festival, one of the biggest events in the desert. Tom and I ventured into the unknown (for us) territory of modern music festivals at Coachella last year with our VIP wristbands, and we are excited to be heading there again this weekend!
When I mention to most people about our age that we are going to Coachella, you can see the visible roll of their eyes. Sure, they wouldn’t mind catching Steely Dan and AC/DC, but that’s about it. I’m not sure what kind of music they think is being played at the festival, but whatever their notion, I think it’s mostly misinformed. Of course, some dismiss Coachella simply because it’s full of loud music and rowdy young people. I have to admit, we like our VIP pass, up close to the stage and away from much of the craziness. The truth is, however, Coachella is a very unique experience for the 45+ audience… and it’s a blast!
Up close, to the left of the stage, we could see the craziness behind us on the screen!
While most older mature folks believe that Coachella features an abundance of really loud, head-banging bands, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Most of the music is rather tame indie rock that’s catchy and easy to appreciate and savor. Last year I wasn’t familiar with a majority of the band names. Then I realized that I actually knew the songs of many of them (due to the Alternative Endurance station on Pandora that I listen to while jogging), but I simply didn’t know the names of the bands. So this year I decided to be a more informed Coachella fan, and I’ve done my homework. If you are 45+, attending Coachella, but not certain which stage to head to at various times of day, read on to learn about my recommendations! I will also share with you one or two of my favorite songs for each of these bands.
Hozier performs at sunset. Coachella 2015 week one. (Photo courtesy of a friend).
Steely Dan and AC/DC
There’s obviously no need for me to elaborate on these two. Coachella’s two blasts from the past are sure to have us reliving our high school days!
Hozier
He’s been called a bona fide star and consummate showman. Week-one Coachella attendees had glowing reports of this act. Everyone knows his hit, Take Me To Church, but I’m looking forward to what else he brings to the stage!
St. Lucia
I began to listen to St. Lucia about six months ago, and I’m really excited to see this band! It’s beachy. It’s easy to sing along and dance to. It’s fun. I love every St. Lucia song. My personal favorite is All Eyes on You.
Fitz and the Tantrums
This is another one of my favorites. LA-based Fitz and the Tantrums is sure to command the stage with their upbeat, addictive sound. Their two songs I’m most looking forward to are The Walker and Out of My League.
alt-J
I’ve always liked bands with singers that have out-of-the-ordinary voices. (One of my all-time faves is the Crash Test Dummies!) And that’s one reason alt-J has been on my radar for a few months. But I also appreciate the style of music. Their song Breezeblock is quirky and awesome! My 20-something son Patrick says they don’t play a bad song.
George Ezra
I’ve heard 21-year-old, British singer/songwriter George Ezra on Pandora many times with his song Budapest. But I also really like the sounds of Blame it on Me. His folk-pop sound and amazing, raspy voice are mesmerizing.
Night Terrors of 1927
This band is a new one for me, but while doing my homework, I stumbled upon this band. Awesome! They remind me of the New Wave music I listened to in the late ’80s. Check out their tune When You Were Mine.
Vance Joy
Vance Joy is another I’ve heard on my Pandora workout station. This Aussie’s music is beachy and likeable. Listen to Riptide and Mess Is Mine to get a feel for his unique sound.
Saint Motel
This band is one I just discovered, and I’m really hoping to make their early-ish performance on Sunday. I love the horns in the LA-based Saint Motel’s music. Check out my favorite of their songs, My Type.
Chet Faker
He apparently won over the crowd at Coachella week one. This Australian is best known for his electronic music and his soulful sound. I’ve been familiar with him for months and look forward to No Diggity and Drop the Game.
Who Are Your Favorites?
There are so many more great bands playing at Coachella 2015. Share your favorites below!
xoxo,
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Aw, I would have like to have seen Fitz .. we have a house in Indian Wells and I always say, “Coachella next year” .. lol.
Monica.
You should do it! It’s so much fun. 🙂
Our daughter always comes out for Coachella with nearly a dozen of her friends staying in our home. We live closer to the festival than any other golf club in the area. She decided to not attend this year and I miss them all. Her friends were always sweet and respectful of our rules (which were not many). I miss cooking for all of them and visiting with each one. They always wanted me to join them and I never had the desire until I just read Andrea’s blog. It would be fun to join you and Tom!!! Oh well, next year!!!
Oh my goodness! That would be awesome! We would have SO much fun together!