sitting in our campsite, listening to the crystal clear sound system on the what stage. we’re probably half a mile away and it sounds like a great stereo in your living room. which happens to be a tennessee farm. moe. is on now and it’s thoroughly enjoyable jam band fare.
today began with coffee in centeroo and a little shopping at little hippie. cute clothes for the kids, if you go for that sort of thing (that thing being kids dressed in pseudo-hippy wear). then it was off to listen to music. a little mike doughty from a distance was beat-happy and nice. brothers past was the wildcard and didn’t make enough of an impression to get out the recording gear or stay beyond three songs.
it was time to get over to this tent to set up for soulive. a great set – revelatory at points – but slightly marred by the appearance of a singer for a few songs. reggie watts? not bad, just not as good as the instrumental onslaught of the core band.
time then for a cold rye ale from terrapin brewery in athens, ga. they’re among several microbrewers from around the country that have set up shop in the brooer’s festival tent. good stuff.
stephen malkmus was an anticipated highlight but ended up disappointing. none of the pavement-esque shuffling melodic charm of the first jicks album… malkmus seemed to be in a noisier more attitudinal mood. stayed for 30 minutes. a little matisyahu on the walk back for inspiration and then a warm shower to prep for the evening.
which brings us back to the present… waiting for phil and friends tonight at 8:30 pm. and after that, it’s the end until next year. which is perfect timing actually. at bonnaroo, you get so much—music, atmosphere, fresh air, sunshine, freaks!—that come monday morning, it’s been just enough. plenty even.
until next year.