Imagine a world where you can watch amazing bands on a desert oasis just an hour from Los Angeles? It’s possible at Desert Daze. Phil Pirrone and Co curated an incredible lineup of psych rock acts including Stereolab, Khruangbin, DIIV and many many more. I went this weekend to cover the fest for MXDWN, and fully intended to see as much as humanly possible. It wasn’t always easy – the heat during the day left me feeling woozy and the cold night air was hard to withstand (note to self, bring a thicker jacket!) and there were times I was just ready for it to be over. “You know what’s underrated? Arriving to festivals late” one of my friends said. And I felt that, but what I got to experience by being on the festival grounds all three days from open to close was nothing short of magical, and those moments in which I found myself feeling particularly grateful – listening to a band I love like Crumb while watching the sunset – made it all worthwhile.
Alvvays
Love Songs to the Heartbroken
So this is a list of songs I’ve carefully compiled over the past couple months — from the depths of Desert Daze to the antiphonies of Cigarettes After Sex — this compilation is sure to draw out any emotion that’s ready to come forward.
This mix is inspired by my breakup, my time at Desert Daze, Beach Goth, and just from seeing movies and TV shows that made me feel… well… anything.
Without further ado, here’s a comp of what I’ve been into for the past couple months:
Music Tastes Good – A Lineup Filled With Flavor
There was literally something for everyone at this year’s Music Tastes Good Festival at the Marina Green Park in Long Beach, CA. Dance/EDM? Check. Hip-Hop? Check. Indie Rock? Check. Dad Rock? Check.
Long Beach pride simply ran through this festival. From the local chefs and restaurants to the liberal use of “what up, Long Beach!” to hype up the crowd, it was clear that people were both surprised and delighted to be there. Continue reading
Indiecation 