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, the true veterans are back for more memorable performances that cement them as Bonnaroo legends!
Primus (9:15pm-10:45pm on Friday):
On the same stage the trio played 7 years ago, Primus will fulfill many Rooers dreams of returning to Manchester. Les Claypool has been a part of Bonnaroo in one form or another since the festival's inception, but this will only mark Primus' second Bonnaroo performance. Bringing along former drummer Jay Lane and their first album in 12 years, their 90-minute set is destined for greatness. Personally, the second best show I ever saw on the farm was Primus in 2004. It may have something to do with Les Claypool’s lack of sobriety and a surprise Adrian Belew appearance. Either way, this band grows sweeter over time and this should be on your “Must See” list.
String Cheese Incident (12:45am-3:00am on Saturday):
Alluded to in the introduction, String Cheese is synonymous with Bonnaroo after playing twice in the first three years and once more in 2007. Their style is a nice balance of skill and rhythm, often avoiding the wankery and tempo gaffs caused by some jam band’s self-service. Sure, their light show isn’t expensive and they lack in the instant gratification other acts will be delivering across the grounds, but Cheese brings a whole level of fun and good vibes unable to be produced or crafted outside of the live arena. Although the set list varies greatly from night to night, the bottom line of having a good time is always achieved.
Galactic (3:30pm-5:00pm on Sunday):
Galactic is one of those bands that can completely knock you out in seconds flat. Their infectious funk and jazz fusion matches incredibly well with the furious drumming of Stanton Moore, brewing into the foamy danceable goodness that is Galactic. The band is taking over the main stage for a daytime Sunday set, hopefully one filled with better weather than some of their unforgettable night performances. This will be their third year in a row for the New Orleans sonic saints and eight overall, making Galactic the true kings of Bonnaroo and still one of the best lineups in modern American music.
Stay tuned to Examiner.com all this week and next for some great Bonnaroo coverage and check out the Examiner.com Music Guide for all things festival related!
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