Pitchfork Music Festival 2023 Highlights
Black Belt Eagle Scout’s Head-Thrashing Poetics
Katherine Paul, the creative force behind Black Belt Eagle Scout, delivered a captivating performance at her inaugural Pitchfork festival appearance. Initially, she maintained a straightforward approach, presenting swirling indie rock melodies that explored themes of grief, marginalization, and queer longing. With a knowing gaze and a playful smirk, she set the stage with a modest lighting backdrop of blue lights. However, as her set progressed, the energy escalated. The guitars became increasingly wild and loud, culminating in a moment where her cascading black hair obscured her face as she engaged in fervent head-banging. This cathartic experience reached a poignant peak when raindrops began to fall during her performance of “Don’t Give Up,” as she repeated the phrase “the land, the water, the sky,” seemingly conjuring the elements around her. —Cat Zhang
Hang Time With MJ Lenderman
MJ Lenderman brought a down-home vibe to the festival, arriving in casual sunglasses and a t-shirt alongside a band that radiated a relaxed, basement-jam atmosphere. His ensemble included notable musicians, such as Spencer Tweedy, the son of Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy. Together, they presented a rollicking set filled with tunes from Lenderman’s album, *Boat Songs*, along with his latest single, “Rudolph.” The performance was infused with his signature wry storytelling and rich, inviting riffs, transporting listeners to a carefree scene of floating down a river with a beer in hand. The sunny ambiance and the sight of festival-goers in baseball hats enjoying the music made it a joyful experience. —Cat Zhang
The Smile’s Big Experiment
The Smile, a supergroup featuring Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, and Tom Skinner, showcased their adeptness at festival performances, executing a meticulously crafted set. Greenwood’s guitar work was nothing short of mesmerizing, with his use of a violin bow and fervent strumming evoking the power of a locomotive. Yorke, with his signature wizard-like presence, commanded the crowd effortlessly, while Skinner provided a precise and steady rhythm from behind the drums. The inclusion of saxophonist Robert Stillman added an intriguing layer to their sound, blending seamlessly into the performance. Their setlists, while consistent, were intellectually stimulating, featuring intricate compositions such as Greenwood’s classical-inspired solo in “Under Our Pillows” and a progressive rendition of Yorke’s solo track, “Being Pulled Apart By Horses,” which closed the night. Great experiments, indeed, are those that remain replicable. —Anna Gaca
Conclusion
The Pitchfork Music Festival 2023 was a celebration of diverse musical expressions, showcasing powerful performances from artists like Black Belt Eagle Scout, MJ Lenderman, and The Smile. Each artist brought their unique flair, creating moments of connection and catharsis for the audience. From the raw energy of indie rock to the intricate soundscapes of experimental music, the festival proved to be a vibrant tapestry of modern music culture.
FAQs
What is the Pitchfork Music Festival?
The Pitchfork Music Festival is an annual music festival held in Chicago, featuring a diverse lineup of artists across various genres, including indie rock, hip-hop, electronic, and more.
When did the Pitchfork Music Festival 2023 take place?
The Pitchfork Music Festival 2023 took place from July 21 to July 23, showcasing a range of performances from both established and emerging artists.
Who were some of the standout performers in 2023?
Standout performers included Black Belt Eagle Scout, MJ Lenderman, and The Smile, each delivering unique and memorable sets that resonated with the audience.
Is the Pitchfork Music Festival suitable for all ages?
Yes, the Pitchfork Music Festival is generally suitable for all ages, although certain performances may contain content that some parents might find inappropriate for young children.
How can I attend the Pitchfork Music Festival in the future?
To attend future festivals, keep an eye on the official Pitchfork Music Festival website for announcements regarding dates, ticket sales, and lineup information.
