3 Weekends -- 3 Music Festivals

As anyone who reads my blog already knows, I am a passionate music fan.  I liberally sprinkle in doses of music in between my digital media & technology posts.  So, indulge me on another one -- because the past 3 weekends have been a music fan's nirvana.  First, Coachella.  Second, Jazz Fest (I already wrote about those). 

And, now, KROQ's Weenie Roast this past weekend.  Strange name.  Great 1-day music festival held in Irvine, California.  KROQ is one of LA's foremost radio stations -- it was THE station I listened to when I lived in LA for years (from '89 to '02).  As always, KROQ -- given its power and influence in the "indie" world (whatever that means these days) -- is able to assemble a powerful line-up.  This year was no exception as Coldplay closed the show.

Yes, Coldplay delivered -- but no surprises there.  I am a fan.  I have seen them before.  Pleasant enough.

The real surprise to me was The Offspring, a long-time SoCal band, which played its umpteenth Weenie Roast and rocked the Verizon Amphitheatre.  The energy was electric.

And, then, of course, there was the Silversun Pickups (pictured above).  I have seen them 2X before, but the band never gets old.  Great new songs.  Great set.  They delivered.

Other "hits" from the show included AWOLNATION (whom I saw two weeks ago at Coachella) and Garbage (always liked their songs).

"Misses"?  Pennywise.  Just can't handle the thrash.  Never could.  Any others?  Yes.  Incubus.  The band held a coveted penultimate slot (right before Coldplay) -- but followed The Offspring -- and essentially sucked the energy out of the amphitheatre.

4 for 4 this coming weekend?  Not a chance.  Time to take it easy one weekend .... unless you have tix for me somewhere ....