Ahh, Athens in the summertime. It’s like living inside a wimpy Swede’s sauna… 
without the relief of jumping into a snowbank. Therefore, its only natural (or masochistic) that we hold one of Athens’ largest annual events in the midst of this slow roast.
We are, of course, referring to AthFest, 5 days of what our humble hometown is famous for: music, arts, film… and kids? That’s right- you’re partying for a good cause! AthFest is a non-profit organization, and proceeds from your $15 wristband (also available at Schoolkids, Wuxtry, Cine, Musicians Warehouse, and Athens Welcome Center; $20 at AthFest) is supporting local schools!
While folks spend a lot of time and money perfecting their starving artist look, many Athens residents don’t need the pomade or artfully torn clothes. Athens-Clarke County has one of the highest poverty rates in the nation. By attending AthFest, you’re not only getting access to some of the best music, film, and art available; you’re also contributing to local education and, in turn, Athens’ next generation.
With over 150 bands throwing down in the next 3 days, its impossible to attend all of the shows. Here’s a list of the Friday shows where UGAStyle will be grooving; stay posted for our Saturday and Sunday picks!
Friday, We’re In Love:
Cars Can Be Blue (Cine BarCafe, 1 am, 18+)
Nate Mitchell and Becky Brooks can guarantee an interesting live show. Not only are their songs irreverent and hilarious, but their onstage banter gives you a concert experience that verges on stand up comedy. If you want to end your night on a high note (that’s heavily suffused with dirty humor), Cars Can Be Blue is the band to see.
Our New Silence (New Earth Music Hall, 10 pm, 18+)
Kai Riedl
Our New Silence is the genre-bending child of local musicians Kai Riedl (of Macha) and Suny Lyons (of Hope for Agoldensummer), whose Javasounds project took them to Java, Indonesia to record local musicians. Our New Silence builds on those recordings, remixing and reworking the distinctive sounds of the gamelan ensemble into songs that range from sweeping, electronic orchestration to playful, danceable beats.
Suny Lyons
Our New Silence has become a trio with the addition of local percussionist Jeremy Wheatley, whose bangin’ talents are in high demand in Athens. In fact, he’ll be working a double shift at New Earth – Wheatley also plays with LeMaster, who immediately follows Our New Silence. The trio will be joined by chanteuses Maria Taylor (of Azure Ray) and Kara McKinney (of The Premonitions).
Bananafish (Rye Bar, 10 pm, 21+)
Hailing from the land of Mickey (Orlando, FL), Bananafish sounds more Pacific Northwest than Florida orange groves. They’re often compared to Fleet Foxes, and there’s some truth to that reference. Our favorite track is “Walden Pond”, which evokes the exotic gypsy-folk tones of Beirut. Bananafish is in control of its own sound and is in no way a poor imitation of artists its compared to. In fact, one of the most refreshing things about these guys is that with a name like Bananafish, its clear that they aren’t taking themselves too seriously.
Followed by: Beauvilles, 11 pm; Woodfang, 12 am; Laissez Funk, 1 am
We’ll also be scoping out:
Thayer Sarrano
- ‘Powers/Bambara/Pride Parade/Cinemechanica (40 Watt Club, 10 pm-til, 18+)
- Thayer Sarrano/Major Love Event/Hope for Agoldensummer (Flicker Theatre, 10 pm-til, 21+)
- Easter Island/Creepy/Ramone/Engineering/Immuzikation & Twin Powers (Go Bar, 10 pm-til, 21+)
Check out the AthFest website to download the schedule or pick up this week’s Flagpole for a handy insert. Overwhelmed by the sheer volume of performers? OnlineAthens has provided a rundown on every single act…we’re writing them a thank you note.
Jun 24 2010
-Party time, excellent- Friday night @ Farm 255
-Salute their shorts! The four-eyed force behind Quiet Hooves- David (28, from Roswell, GA) doesn’t look to shabby with the sweetest arm candy Athens, GA has to offer: behold, Beth (25, from Athens, GA) the girl who is easily adored.
-Parks and Jeff of Mans Trash.
-Somehow Erin (23, from Atlanta, GA) makes a hot summer night, even hotter with a sexy floral jumper.
