Virgin Festival Preview: five artists you need to see (perhaps without even realizing it)

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August 8, 9:27 PM

by David Isaacson, Indie Rock Examiner

 

 

Andrew Bird (Chicago, IL):

Also known by me as the bird man, Andrew Bird is one of the most talented musicians around today. He's been creating music for a while, but his 2005 release The Mysterious Production of Eggs received critical acclaim and broke him out in the indie world. His other releases, including Weather Systems (2003) and Armchair Apocrypha (2007), are great as well. Besides playing guitar, he plays a nasty violin and is an amazing whistler. I'm proud to say he's from Chicago.

 Time playing:- 1:25 p.m.-2:10 p.m Sunday, south stage. 

(sample) Andrew Bird - "Fiery Crash"

 Myspace

Rodrigo Y Gabriela (Mexico City, Mexico):

Repeat after me, "Do not miss this show." I first saw this talented Mexican duo at Bonnaroo 2007. They blew my mind. They are among the best guitarists I have ever seen, and are a blast to see live. I can't wait to see them again. If you have children, you may need to cover their ears as Gabriela likes to curse between songs--in English.

Time playing: 4:35 p.m.-5:25 p.m Saturday, north Stage

(sample) Rodrigo Y Gabriela - "Tamacun"

Myspace

The Black Keys (Akron, Ohio):

Just saw them at Lollapalooza and had a great time at their show. This is worth your time. 

Time playing: 5:15 p.m. -6:15 p.m Sunday, South Stage

(sample) The Black Keys - "I Got Mine"

 Myspace

The Swell Season (Ireland):

Co-stars in the movie Once, Glen Hansard(The Frames) and Markéta Irglová make some beautiful music. The Swell Season album is a delightful blend of quiet piano, guitar and cello interplay and the perfectly complimenting voices of Irglová and Hansard. In addition to being featured at both Coachella and Bonnaroo this year, the song “Falling Slowly” was featured in the movie Once and was nominated for both an Oscar and a Grammy. I'm excited for this show.

Time playing: 2:15 p.m.-3:05 p.m Saturday, north stage. 

(sample): The Swell Season - "Falling Slowly"

 Myspace

Wilco (Chicago, IL):

If you read my column: Duh. If you are new to my column: Hello! See them.

Time playing: 7 p.m.-8:15 p.m Saturday, North Stage

(sample) Wilco - "I Am Trying To Break Your Heart"

 Myspace

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