Bringing the noise to Union Park on July 15, Pitchfork Music Festival continued to explore a range of music on the weekend.
One DJ who performed was even titled The Range, coincidentally enough. Pop star Carly Rae Jepsen played a bit early that date just after 6 p.m., but that worked out well for the many families that brought young folks out to see her. She dedicated "Call Me Maybe" to some wee fans she met backstage, and closed with "I Really Like You." Many attendees admitted they were surprised how much they liked her set.
Canadians Broken Social Scene filled the stage with musicians afterward, creating a wall of sound.
The Blue Stage has gained the reputation over the years by featuring up-and-coming artists, and genderqueer artist Shamir—who does not identify as male or female—creatively captivated a new generation of fans under the trees. For the second year in a row, Shamir showed that being original can pay off—and originality is Pitchfork's calling card. At one point, Shamir stated, "I don't have a set list so we will all be surprised as we go along."
Jeremih not only represented for Chicagoans as local talent, but was the most radio-friendly with "Don't Tell 'Em." Chance the Rapper came along for the ride and J's mother brought him bottled water on stage, where he had everyone wish her a happy birthday.
Soul singer Miguel played directly after Jeremih's set. His band, all dressed in white, had fun with the packed audience July 17 on the Red Stage.
At the same time, Grammy winner Thundercat brought out his huge bass to entertain the troops that gathered around the Blue Stage.
Many were worried that rain would dampen the festival but the weather surprisingly caused no problems this year. FKA Twigs closed the three-day party—and did it with style. Smoke machines, synchronized dancers and falsettos showed the minions what the hype is surrounding her.
Performer Oneohtrix Point Never competed with Twigs' set on the opposing Blue Stage, but worked with her on some of the new material so there is obviously no beef.
See PitchforkMusicFestival.com for next year's lineup. The festival continues to be a very LGBT-friendly arena to experience new artists.
