Even after the first day, we were blown away. Chemical Brothers, Paul Van Dyk, Pretty Lights – we couldn’t really ask for anything more.
The setup was similiar to Lollapalooza, but a bit more unfamiliar – which definitely added to the mystique behind the new conquering festival, entering Chicago as a mystery. We arrived there first to watch the whole setup and to hear the first sounds, a christening of something which, in our minds, was sure to stay for at least a few more years.
Everything was extremely well organized, and every musical act seemed to kill it. Especially Nas & Damian Marley. Even though the temperatures were a bit chilly all weekend, the music and energy that was resonating kept everyone warm.
After the last day, and three straight days of hearing new incredible music (we enjoyed getting an earful of The Ills) and rushing home to inquire more about all the amazing music we discovered, we knew this festival was going to impact a lot of fans, and the response is going to be big.
For an introductory event, North Coast Music Festival knocked this one out of the ball park. The professional and organized realities which made the surreal possible – was worth it all. We can’t wait to check it out next year.