West Fest – July 7-9
Headliners To Watch
ESG – Formed in 1978, ESG has been a massively influential band on the music scene, combining elements of funk, hip-hop, electronic music, world music and more into an energetic and eclectic style of music. The band will certainly offer an enticing show to watch at West Fest.
Speedy Ortiz – Indie rock four-piece Speedy Ortiz plays a vigorous pop-punk-meets-indie style of music, with a hard-hitting sound that focuses on melodic electric guitars and powerful vocals.
The Undercards
Woods – Brooklyn indie band Woods has been at the top of their game for years, perfecting a sound that blends psychedelic rock with folk and indie overtones. The band puts on an incredible live show, that rock fans would be wise not to miss.
Royal Headache – Australian band Royal Headache blends punk with garage-rock for an absolutely blazing live show. A massive sound with stellar songwriting, these guys will set the perfect stage for Speedy Ortiz’s headlining set.
Local Flavor
Local H – Active since the 80s, Local H has remained a staple of the Chicago area for decades, bringing a bend of alternative, grunge and punk for a heavy, hard-hitting live show with a dedicated fanbase. The group will headline on Sunday.
You Need To Know
West Fest takes place in West Town, on Chicago Ave. between Damen and Wood St. The main stage is curated by Empty Bottle, ensuring good music, and a DJ stage exists as well. The festival can be attended for a $5 suggested donation. Food and retail vendors are on site.
The Bottom Line
Having existed for more than a decade, West Fest is a well-established list with one of the most unique and interesting music lineups of the summer. In fact, there are few acts spread throughout the three days that aren’t worth seeing. A festival based around great music, this one gets our recommendation.
The Lineup
Friday, July 7:
8:30 – ESG
7:00 – Durand Jones & The Indications
5:30 – HUJO
Saturday, July 8:
8:30 – Speedy Ortiz
7:00 – Royal Headache
5:30 – Femdot
4:00 – Cymbals Eat Guitars
2:45 – FACS
1:30 – DEHD
Sunday, July 9:
8:30 – Local H
7:00 – Har Mar Superstar
5:30 – Palehound
4:00 – Woods
2:45 – Post Animal
1:30 – School Of Rock
