Now that Jazz Fest is just about behind us, it’s time to start looking ahead to the summer festival scene. In one of the great annual injustices, two of the best May festivals fall on the weekend of the 18th. If you’re looking for an excuse to head down to the coast to Gulf Shores, Hangout Music Fest is the place to be. If you’re staying a little closer to home, Bayou Boogaloo has you covered.
This year Hangout returns with headlining sets from Kendrick Lamar, The Chainsmokers and The Killers. They will be supported by the likes of SZA, Portugal. The Man and St. Vincent. These groups of performers are some of the best acts currently touring. SZA and St. Vincent have stunning records out and Portugal. The Man are riding the wave behind the two biggest hits of their career. All of these performances are a perfect soundtrack to the beach party that is Hangout Fest. In addition to the headliners, Hangout always really excels in the small print bands that they invite out. This year you can catch Sunflower Bean, Son Little, Noname and Caroline Rose among others.
Local favorite Tank and the Bangas will be there as well. If you haven’t been out to Hangout, I suggest making the trip. It is close and convenient and could not be a better time.
If your speed is a bit closer to home on the bayou, stay in town for Bayou Boogaloo. This year you’ll find Marc Brussard, Leo Nocentelli (with The Funkin Truth) and Deacon John (with The Ivories) out on Bayou St. John. These folks will be supported by the amazing Ghanaian drummer Paa Kow as well as Toubab Krewe (I’d love to see a collaboration between these two), Walter “Wolfman” Washington, Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes, Alex McMurray, and Magnetic Ear. Make sure to check out Cha Wa while you’re there.
Playlist of mentioned bands available here.
MAY 1
Waxahatchee rock Gasa Gasa
MAY 1
Beach House drift into The Civic
MAY 5
Built to Spill and Afghan Whigs co-headline The Civic
MAY 4
Galactic funk up The Joy
MAY 5
Big Freedia bounces into Republic
MAY 16
Dirty Projectors harmonize at Republic
MAY 16
Dr. Dog and Son Little psych out The Joy
MAY 29
Front Bottoms punk the House of Blues
MAY 30
A Place to Bury Strangers drown Gasa Gasa
Dates are subject to change; email Mike@MyNewOrleans.com or contact him through Twitter @Minima.
