It is that time. Our most favorite weekend in Louisville: Forecastle. Hipsters and music lovers from around the region descend on our town, and we gladly join them at the waterfront for what is always a fantastic weekend. This years lineup appears initially to be catered directly to what Louisville loves, but there are enough wild cards to keep everyone on their toes and happy.
It is gonna be hot as hell…so be smart out there, kids. Like REAL hot. Hydrate appropriately and don’t shy away from shade. Check the map out now for water locations, etc… Also, note, large backpacks are no longer allowed, but you can bring your water pack!
Aside from the big name artists listed below, we HIGHLY RECOMMEND checking out the Teddy Abrams-curated, entirely Louisville-centric, and relocated WFPK Port Stage. A slew of Louisville artists will be showcased here including Matt Myers, 1200, Wax Fang, Maiden Radio, Michael Cleveland, and The Louisville Leopard Percussionists. The new stage is back in the Kentucky Landing area, which is actually nicely shaded. So go catch a break and enjoy this specialty crafted lineup. While you’re gearing up for the fest, shuffle play the Spotify playlist from the Forecastle Captain – you can also check out the specially curated hip-hop, indie + rock, and electronic playlists as well!
Friday’s Top Picks
Arlie – Boom Stage 2:30 – 3:15pm
Although Arlie has been through town recently, if you haven’t heard of this Nashville band, here is your chance. They’ve got that home grown indie rock feel, that still somehow is catchy and fresh.
I’m With Her – Boom Stage 3:45 – 4:45pm
Fittingly named, the only all-female band of the festival will likely kick off our weekend for these LML gals. Sarah Jarosz, Aoife O’Donovan and Sara Watkins are all notable artists on their own, but together, they are a power house.
Rainbow Kitten Surprise – Mast Stage 6:00 – 7:00pm
I mean, if the name doesn’t catch your attention, I don’t know if we can be friends. Their indie music is so up our alley, and although they’ve been through town before and at festivals we’ve attended, we still haven’t seen them. It is going to be nice to put a face with this beautiful name.
Kurt Vile & The Violators – Boom Stage 7:15 – 8:15pm
Kurt Vile is set to provide us the Friday rock and roll we crave. We are certainly hoping for a Courtney Barnett appearance Friday (or Sunday for that matter, we don’t care) after last year’s collaboration.
Saturday’s Top Picks
Morgan Saint – Ocean Stage 5:00 – 5:45pm
If dream-pop is your thing, Morgan Saint is your girl. She is young and definitely hip. Her sound will carry nicely under the highway and make you feel at least 10 degrees cooler.
Houndmouth – Mast Stage 7:45 – 9:00pm
You have lots of opportunities to get a double, triple or quadruple dip of Houdmouth this weekend while they are in town. You’ve got their surprise Headliners charity show Thursday, the WFPK live lunch set Friday at noon, and a Golden Age listening party at Jimmy Can’t Dance at 1pm on Friday, all on top of their Saturday set. We are excited as always to see these guys show out for the hometown crowd…and trust us, they always do. The new music is really different and for some people the verdict is still out. {Beaver’s Forecastle pun game is on point with their new single, though: “I don’t want to be at this party-COVE!”} Either way, a Houndmouth set in Louisville is always memorable.
T-Pain – 9:00 – 10:00pm
Beaver and Aubrey saw T-Pain’s set from afar at Bonnaroo and, whew, it looked fun. T-Pain is casually on so many songs from our teenage years, and don’t worry, we know all the words.
Sunday’s Top Picks
White Reaper – Mast Stage 3:30 – 4:30pm
We gotsta shout out the White Reaper guys. No matter how hot the day is, be prepared to get sweaty with the local crew.
Khruangbin – Ocean Stage 4:30 – 5:15pm
Khruangbin isn’t about being labeled or put into some cute little musical box. Their amorphous sound can swoon just about any music lover for one reason or another. They’ll do some funky instrumental stuff, then turn around and sound dreamy and soulful.
Punch Brothers – Boom Stage 6:45 – 7:45pm
Chris Thile may be one of the most talented musicians that we’ve ever seen. His new gig as the face of Prairie Home Companion definitely showcases all of his skills. This is exactly the kind of Sunday revival set that I need at Forecastle. After the long, hot weekend, I predict this will be my rallying point.
Courtney Barnett – Boom Stage 8:45 – 9:45pm
Courtney Barnett’s deadpan and frank style is so refreshing to us. We’ve only seen her once, and are excited to hear her new album live at a Festival.
Arcade Fire – Mast Stage 9:10 – 11:00pm
The band hasn’t been in Louisville since their tour kick off for Reflektor in 2014. This hotter weather will make their “suggested” dress code from that show a little more difficult. Anyway, 2017 brought new music for Arcade Fire, so I’m sure this nearly 2 hour set will be full of both old and new. A solid Sunday close out pick, for sure.
Live Music Louisville 