Bonnaroo has historically been perceived as a hippie festival, bringing all the jams bands together for one gigantic marijuana cloud and hacky sack convention. Over time, however, the landscape has changed and all genres are showcased alongside bands like String Cheese and Phish. This year, more than any other, the electronic and DJ side of music is making a huge splash down on the farm. Here are a few must-see electronic acts this year!
Bassnectar (12:30am-2:00am on Friday):
This basshead is a staple amongst digital connoisseurs and his addition to Bonnaroo signifies how serious the Roo organizers are about bringing top-tier talent to the farm. After Tiesto, Oakenfold, and other headliners have spun their records there before, Bassnectar shoots at a different angle and will gobble up all the people roaming around after Arcade Fire’s headline set. Expect some antique 808 beats, well-crafted dance anthems, and more wobble than a party bus.
Pretty Lights (2:15am-4:30am on Friday):
Derek Smith brought his unique blend of old-school beats and new-school flavor to Tennessee in 2009 and stole the show for the late-night crowd. This year, he’s bringing a new stage set-up, a different live drummer, and a whole different catalog of beats to display for the eager Bonnarooers. His time-slot is perfect for those coming from Bassnectar or The Black Angels.
STS9 (2:30am-4:00am on Saturday)
A wise man once said “STS9 sounds like Jesus and a computer on acid.” Whether you choose to walk by and bob your head or brave the front row for glory, STS9 will give you the continual groove that a jamband normally provides while shooting musical lasers directly into your brain with guitars and synth. This is the band’s fourth trip to Manchester and after opening up for everyone from Disco Biscuits to Jay-Z, this Santa Cruz group now has enough fans to overflow That Tent after midnight.
Sadly, a few of these bands are playing next to one another, but the glory that is Bonnaroo allows most bands to play for nearly 2-3 hours so you should be able to grab a piece of anyone you like!
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