To the unexpecting eye, Gainesville could no way host the insanity-filled weekend that is the Fest. But really if you are traveling to Gainesville, it’s got to be for two things predominately; college football or to experience this annual, ever-growing marathon of bands, beer, and beards.
This was my second year attending the Fest and the expectations were even larger just because of the sheer volume of amazing bands playing in this sixth year. The tradition has become something much more important to me. It’s something that, come July or August, I’m usually talking about at least two to seven times a day. But this year, I was on a mission. Last year, I missed so many amazing bands that I got into after the whole shabang was over so I promised myself I would see as many bands as my body and mind allowed.
Ok, everyone, it’s time. After taking some time to go through our pictures, new records and heal our battle wounds (the infamous fest cold has officially struck!), we are ready to recap what was certainly the best Fest yet. Many great bands played, many PBRs were consumed and way too much Checkers was eaten, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. But along with our day to day recaps of the event, we’re going to focus on certain sets we thought were the stand outs for the weekend in our three day coverage special.
We’ll kick it off with our friends in the Measure [SA]. Their show at Fest VI, which was seen by many as the official kickoff for the weekend, was highly anticipated. So much so, that the 1982 bar was filled to capacity by the time the band started their set. So packed that many of their friends were outside the bar, staring in through the large windows, that is until the came through said windows to stage dive.
Make sure to check out The Measure’s track “Portland” in our Mp3 player on the sidebar for some immediate gratification!
Copyright © 2008 Late Night Wallflower
graphics by lauren at blackandredeye | layout/coding by bill
