lari

pitchfork-apalooza

Normally I would not be one to add “palooza” to the end of anything but spending 2.5 days at Pitchfork got me pysched for Lolla. However they are most definitely not the same. At all.

PFork vs Lolla:

• Space:
  • Union Park - just the right size, lots of shade.
  • Grant Park - friggin HUGE, barely any shade at all unless you count the thorny trees (ouch)
• Peeps:
  • Pfork - This year seemed a bit older with less trendy, hipster a-holes. Yes they were there, in full force, but so were plenty of aging indie kids (blame it on the Elephant 6 collective).
  • Lolla - douchebags everywhere. Lots of poseurs. Lots of fratboys. Lots of people wearing outfits that do not belong in the sweltering August heat.
• Food:
  • Pfork - Lots of delicious options that are fairly priced (for the most part). Cash only is convenient. Chicago Diner was there this year — awesomeness!
  • Lolla - Lots of delicious options that are over-priced. Not much that is healthy. Have to buy tickets and then get food and its all messed up (I understand the system works for a big fest but it still sucks).
• Drink: (the most important thing)
  • Pfork - GOOSE ISLAND!!! Not only 312 but the IPA as well. Doesn’t get much better than that. Oh wait - it does. $4 a pop for a big cup (might even be a 16oz?)
  • Lolla - OVERPRICED but at least they have wine! However, I did read that this year there is a “beer garden area” that will have better beers available - bottom line: its still expensive
• Music:
  • Pfork - This fest used to be way more diverse in the music lineup. Still is but, for example, there is no longer a DJ tent and the hip hop has been slimmed down a bit (don’t worry I’m not complaining about Public Enemy or Ghostface and Raekwon). Still some good shiz and enjoyed hearing acts I’ve never listened to before.
  • Lolla - Every year is pretty great. Sadly I missed the second year due to lack of funds and I’m still kicking myself. This year should be a blast. Can’t wait. No complaints.
• Overall:
  • Obviously different in breadth, depth and audience, so its no suprise that each can be appreciated for difference things. I prefer Pitchfork’s vibe but appreciate the craziness of Lolla (like trying to decide between your favorite bands, running around like a chicken with its head cut off, etc). And its all in Chicago. Amen to that.

Photos to follow… or check out my flickr sometime in the next day or so.

Im a dead women -

Thank god for old friends

At pitchfork. 4th year here.