The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is days away, with most of the excitement surrounding the Guns N’ Roses reunion and the return of LCD Soundsystem after a two-year absence.
All that hype can make it easy to overlook other acts that are participating.
Here’s our under-the-radar guide to Coachella 2016.
The medium to fine print of this year’s lineup has some amazing performers who may not be instantly recognizable.
Leading the charge is The Kills, the duo whose four records have all garnered critical praise. Their current record, “Ash & Ice,” was released this year featuring their usual raw and edgy sound but more refined. The duo’s live performances create a hypnotic aura that pull you in and doesn’t let go.
An act hidden among the hoards of performers is Rhye. This little-known duo is yet to release a follow-up to “Woman,” their fantastic 2013 disc. A quick listen to this Canadian/Danish duo makes it hard not groove on their charm. Songs like “The Fall” and “Open” are perfect, romantic soul tracks. Rhye plans to drop some new tracks on their set at Coachella that will definitely be on their next record.
The third act on this is list is Deerhunter. The band led by Bradford Cox has been known for unpredictable performances, sometimes brilliant and others just weird. Their most recent album marks a shift in their sound; the band explores new sonic territory leaving behind their more abrasive sounds for a hint of mainstream.
A pair of local bands will be representing San Diego and Tijuana at Coachella.
You will not want to miss San Diego’s very own Prayers. The self-proclaimed creators of the Cholo-Goth sound have generated a lot of buzz, not only because of their collaboration with Blink 182’s Travis Barker, but because their sound is truly unique. Prayers is an acquired taste but definitely worth the time. They mix up synthesizers and throbbing beats with lyrics about gang and street life.
Mint Field representing the other side of the border. This noise pop trio from Tijuana has garnered plenty of attention from Mexico after their debut extended play “Primeras Salidas.” Although very young in age, the band’s sound is well beyond their years. Inching away from the very familiar shoegaze that can be found from a myriad of Mexican bands right now, Mint Field is a true up-and-comer that deserves every bit of your attention.
There are plenty of performances that you will not want to miss at this year’s festival but there will always those diamonds in the rough. These are all the hidden gems and not so hidden that you will want to check out.
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, Calif., over two weekends, April 15-17 and 22-24.
