The thirteenth edition of the annual moe.down will take place August 10-12 in its original location, Snow Ridge Ski Area in Turin, NY. This year’s festival features some of the best talent in the jam band scene, with the likes of Umphrey’s McGee, Grace Potter & The Nocturnals, Galactic, and The Wood Brothers joining hosts moe. for a weekend of great music, here’s a taste of what’s to come (and for more on the event, check out the Jambands.com interview with the host band’s Vinnie Amico).Umphrey’s McGee: “Hajimemashite” *
There are few songs as powerful and poignant as the Umphrey’s McGee classic “Hajimemashite.” While everyone knows them for their long improvisations and excellent musicianship, a song like this showcases a skill that not many jam bands have- songwriting. The powerful vocals of guitarist Brendan Bayliss combined with the driving drums of Kris Myers make this one of the best true songs you could hear at moe.down.
Grace Potter & The Nocturnals: “The Lion The Beast The Beat” *
The title track off their latest album, this song shows a more progressive side and a certain amount of growth that will launch Grace Potter & The Nocturnals higher than they can ever imagine. While their image may be moving more towards the mainstream feel, the music has taken a progressive turn that will get all of those in attendance moving around.
Galactic: “Funky Bird” *
No festival is complete without some New Orleans funk, and Galactic brings that and more to the stage. This song, “Funky Bird,” from their debut album Coolin’ Off, is a perfect introduction to Galactic if you’ve never heard them before. This song combines infectious rhythms with funk infused horns over the top carrying the groove. Sit back and enjoy the sweet sounds of the Bayou.
SOJA: “Everything Changes” *
The Arlington, VA/Washington, DC reggae outfit combines high energy with crafty songwriting in their live shows. This song, off their Everything Changes EP, showcases both of those qualities with poignant lyrics and energetic music to get the crowd into it from the first note.
North Mississippi Allstars Duo: “Mississippi Boll Weevil” *
Made up of Luther and Cody Dickinson, this duo packs a punch both in their cohesive improv ability as well as individual chops. This tune, “Mississippi Boll Weevil,” is a great example of what to expect during their set at moe.down.
More from moe.down XIIIThe Wood Brothers: “Midnight Rider” *
Some of the best acoustic work you’ll see all weekend, The Wood Brothers are some of the most thoughtful and soulful musicians out there. Their unique cover of the Allman Brothers classic, “Midnight Rider,” showcases that musicianship perfectly.
The Bright Light Social Hour: “Back and Forth” *
A big winner at the annual SXSW Austin Music Awards, this Austin, TX rock band is rising faster than anyone else in the scene right now. You’ll be pulled in immediately with their infectious rhythms and melodies.
Kyle Hollingsworth Band: “Crosseyed and Painless” *
Most noted for his work in String Cheese Incident, Kyle Hollingsworth brings that same type of fearlessness and experimentation with his solo band. This is no more evident than in the famous Talking Heads song, “Crosseyed and Painless.”
Marco Benevento: “Greenpoint” *
There are no musical limits for a musician like Marco Benevento, who is constantly reinventing the modern rock piano with each album he releases. You never know what you’ll hear when Marco gets on stage, so check out this tune “Greenpoint” which highlights many different sounds that make Marco Benevento one of a kind.
Timbre Coup: “Spider of Doom” *
Timbre Coup will feel right at home, as the Upstate New York natives take the stage near their hometown to deliver their particular brand of progressive rock. With influences from the likes of Tool, Umphrey’s McGee, moe., and King Crimson, it won’t take long for this group to prove itself to the moe.down crowd. Check out a live cut of “Spider of Doom” from earlier this year.