Austin City Limits Music Festival Weekend 2 Day 3 at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
ACL Festival features a diverse lineup of acts every year with 9 stages, over 100 performances, and two weekends. The festival takes place on 46-acres in Zilker Park, the crown jewel of Austin's public green spaces. This huge space is required to accommodate the massive crowds that flock to Austin for the experience, an estimated 75,000 people attended each day of Weekend One. Festival-goers will have no problem getting their steps in for the day, as it takes approximately 15 minutes to make the 0.7 mile trek between the Honda and American Express stages.
There were plenty of photo ops for festival-goers to snap the perfect pic in front of. Most notable was the iconic array of colorful flags that tower over the festival grounds. Other popular attractions were the giant “ACL” block letters and the giant photo frame stamped with #ACLFEST, both of which maintained a steady crowd of impromptu models. Staff were present at all photo ops to assist in taking photos for groups and individuals alike. Another attraction was the “Dome Rx”, an art installation located on the south side of the festival grounds. Inside, viewers admired images projected on the wall while relaxing on luxurious cushions in the air conditioning.
A couple of ACL Festival Satellite Stores were scattered around the premises, each with a variety of official merchandise available for purchase. Located centrally in a booth adjacent to the iconic staggered ACL FEST sign was a conglomerate of local vendors. Here, Exhibit82Art featured Austin-themed merch, quirky candles, cup holders, socks, and more. Other booths included Espacio Handmade (featuring everything leather), Lisa Crowder (fine handmade jewelry), Mutiny Market (crocheted clothing), Slow North (scented oils made in Austin), and more.
Barton Springs Beer Hall offered a shaded and spirited environment for Longhorn fans to watch UT’s 24 - 21 victory against Iowa State. This game followed last Saturday’s 49-0 sweep against long-time rival OU at the Red River Showdown, UT’s first victory since 2008. The bar was cashless for attendees who chose to register their wristband with American Express. Registering for ACL Cashless has additional benefits, such as a one-time $5 bonus and access to the Card Member Lounge. Some unique drinks were frosé at the ACL wine lounge.
The four touch-free Hydration Stations were efficient, sanitary, and encouraged use of reusable water containers. There was hardly ever a line, and those who refilled their reusable water containers were rewarded with cool mist from a fan.
In addition to drinks, ACL Festival is known for its diverse selection of tasty food. Everything from shawarma and empanadas to nachos and ice cream was served, with many vegan and gluten free options also available. Many local Austin favorites were featured in this year’s food lineup: Austin’s Pizza, East Side King, Tiny Pies, Voodoo Doughnut, and more. Black’s BBQ celebrated their 90th anniversary.
The ACL Bonus Tracks stage was tucked away in a grove of trees adorned with colorful banners. On Sunday afternoon, the stage was dominated by “A Drag Comedy Show” with The Beckies. The performance was full of crude humor and impressive acts by Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, and Dolly Parton of ATX Drag. Before the show began, viewers were warned: “If you’re easily offended, you’re at the wrong fucking music festival”. Next door to Bonus Tracks was Austin Kiddie Limits. This area featured a “drum zone”, family services, and kid-friendly catering to keep the little ones happy.
Various companies hosted booths with unique merchandise and exciting free prizes for guests. At the Coke Studio, eager participants scratched off electronic lotto tickets to win various prizes: a headband, a refreshing cool cloth, or an ice cold can of Coca-Cola. Tito’s Vodka consistently had the longest line as fans waited their turn to have a spin at the Tito’s Snag the Swag claw machine. Here, guests had the chance to win the coveted ticket to the Tito’s tent where they would receive free alcohol and water, air conditioned restrooms, and access to the side stage area of the Tito’s stage.
The Honda Watering Hole was located directly behind the “ACL FEST” sign. The area featured three sparkling Honda vehicles—a brand new 2022 Honda Passport, CR-V hybrid, and HR-V Sport. Those not interested in cars could step next door to the Honda Tattoo Parlor and receive a complimentary airbrushed ACL-themed tattoo. At Miller Time Social, fatigued festival-goers could pick up a buzz at the bar and chill out under refreshing fans. The area was scattered with umbrella-d picnic tables to provide shelter from the relentless sun. The tables were also equipped with complimentary charging stations, free wi-fi, and hand sanitizer.
ACL Festival takes many measures to prioritize the convenience and comfort of guests, as demonstrated by the abundance of public restrooms. As far as festival amenities go, the port-a-potties at ACL are some of the nicest ones around. Featuring a gap between the door and the roof to allow for ventilation and a button to flush waste down the drain, these bathrooms were surprisingly clean and odorless. Best of all, urinals were available for the men to use, which some guests feel greatly increased the cleanliness of the other restrooms. ACL Festival also takes care to accommodate people with disabilities by providing ramps, viewing platforms with chairs and spaces for wheelchairs, and sign language interpreters at certain stages.
The medical staff was amazingly attentive and quick to respond to those who needed medical attention. Security staff helped to ensure comfort and safety of festival-goers by tossing boxed water into the crowd between performers and in the midst of long shows. Sober Park served as a safe place for those abstaining from drugs or alcohol, in recovery, acting as designated-drivers, or just looking for a place to sober up a little between artists. Next door, Ascension Seton volunteers administered Pfizer’s bivalent Covid-19 booster vaccine. A physical copy of one’s vaccination card was not needed, as medical staff were able to look up vaccination history in M-Track. Overall, over 100 Covid-19 vaccines were administered at the tent during weekend 2 of ACL!
Two T-Mobile charging stations offered peace of mind to people whose phone batteries were quickly draining from filming and taking photos in the Texas heat, but didn’t have access to a portable charger. Users chose a password and locked their electronics in a secure cubby while their devices charged. Best of all, this service was offered at no cost.
ACL does their best to make getting to the festival convenient, cheap, and stress-free. They offer a variety of transportation methods, such as complimentary ACL Music Festival Shuttles, Cap Metro, Uber, car pooling, biking, walking, and taxis. Perhaps the most unique way to get to Zilker is by a bike-powered cab cart. Each driver’s cart is a reflection of their own personality, as evidenced by the unique costumes, decorations, and music blasting from each cab. If you’re looking for a fun and fast way to enter or exit the crowded streets near the ACL festival grounds, consider a pedicab as your mode of transport! As stated on austinpedicab.com, “It's more than just a Pedicab Ride, it's an Experience.”
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Red Hot Chili Peppers performing on the American Express stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
To many, the Red Hot Chilli Peppers are more than just a Los Angeles rock band from the '80s, they're musical pioneers who took the world by storm with their eclectic blend of funky, alternative punk rock laced with hip-hop that sounded unlike anything anyone had heard before. The band first formed in Los Angeles in 1983 and quickly gained a following large enough to sell 300,000 copies of their debut self-titled album. Over the next few years, the band experimented with different musical genres and went through lineup changes, proving themselves to be one of the most innovative and resilient rock groups in recent history.
In 2022, the Grammy-winning band released Unlimited Love, their 12th studio album and first one with original guitarist John Frusciante since 2006's Stadium Arcadium. Celebrating the release of the new album, the band hit the road for a global tour featuring all four original members, vocalist Anthony Kiedis, bassist Flea, drummer Chad Smith, and Frusciante.
Great venue, wonderful band. Chili Peppers were so fun to watch and listen to and they are amazing live. Super clean venue with great sound and good movement throughout the area.
These guys rock it! They are still amazing. Put on one of the best shows of my life. The music was great. The entertainment was great. I am so happy I got to see them.
You know when people really love each other because the music produced clicks on all levels. This show was a stunning performance of peace and love through the gift of song.
Zhu
Zhu performing on the Miller Lite stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Enigmatic LA-based singer and producer ZHU has taken the electronic music world by storm ever since breaking onto the scene in 2014 with his red-hot debut single "Faded". As the track burned up charts in the US, UK, and Australia, ZHU chose to remain anonymous, foregoing live performances and avoiding interviews as buzz surrounding his identity swirled.
Only after "Faded" was nominated for a 2015 GRAMMY did ZHU begin to open up about himself, but details about the young producer remain murky. What we do know is that since ZHU started performing, his sets have become the stuff of late-night legend thanks to his seductive vocals, bleeding-edge blend of originals and remixes, provocative video projections, and insane laser light shows. Fans looking for a taste of what's next in electronic music won't want to miss the chance to dance with ZHU as he performs his slick, stylish brand of deep vocal house in concert.
Zhu was amazing, all his classic songs and new. best!
Loved this set. It was such a personal experience compared to the typical festival sets.
Been listening to ZHU for a couple months and I was excited to feel how he'd perform live. It was one of the best shows I've seen! His house-y style with a couple trap songs were mixed so well with some live instruments, and the visuals made everything come together. The volume was perfectly loud so you could hear all the highs and lows, and the bass kicks into your soul. I'd definitely go see him again! ZHU is the vibe.
Paramore
Paramore performing on the American Express stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Losing two founding members is enough to make most bands throw in the towel. Not the case for Tennessee-based emo rockers Paramore, who emerged from the setback stronger than ever with chart-topping Paramore. While the new lineup seems to be exploring new genres (synthpop, gospel), their legion of loyal fans will be happy to find that the hard-hitting, emotional sound the band is known for is still there, along with singer Hayley Williams’ iconic flame-colored hair. From the frenetic aggression of pop-punk lead single "Now" to the bubblegum hopefulness of "Still Into You," Paramore the LP encapsulates the best of the band’s work and proves that changes aren’t always a bad thing.
I have always loved Paramore but now my daughter does too. She loved it so much she cried and said it was the coolest moment of her life. She is 12 so this was a big deal. The music was great. Dancing, attitude, atmosphere, and everything was on point. Thanks for being so great!
Did not disappoint! They were great and exciting! One of my favorite all time shows!
The show was epic! It brought back all of the feels! I am so glad I was able to get tickets! I am looking forward to the next time they come to the area.
Japanese Breakfast
Japanese Breakfast performing on the T-Mobile stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
When the album written to memorialize your mother becomes your calling card, where do you turn for your second act? For Japanese Breakfast’s Michelle Zauner, it involved diving deeper into herself to evolve as an artist. With the release of her sophomore album Soft Sounds From Another Planet, Zauner expanded the breadth of the shimmering bedroom pop displayed on her debut Psychopomp. Her voice and vision came clearer into focus as she used the extended metaphor of outer space to observe the pain that defined the first part of her career.
Soo good! We were lucky enough to have spots right in front of stage and her outfit, her chemistry with her husband and band on stage were just so lovely to watch! I’ve never heard Heft before but I’m so glad they played it live that night the guitar solos were ahhhh!
This was a fun night of music! This is the second time I've seen her perform live and she delivered again! The show featured a mix of new and older material and I loved hearing the crowd singing along. The crowd had a great time! I'm looking forward to her next show!
Japanese Breakfast is a road worthy and time tested band. With an excellent light show creating the central hub and visual complement. Japanese Breakfast is the Earth Moon & Sun of Rock & Roll.
Big Wild
Big Wild performing on the Miller Lite stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
As Big Wild, Jackson Stell crafts lush soundscapes and sweeping melodies that lay the foundation for his wide range of vocal stylings.
In February 2019 Big Wild released his critically acclaimed debut album, Superdream, on Counter Records. The project received high praise from the likes of NPR and Billboard, as Stell pushed himself not just as a producer, but as a songwriter, lyricist, and vocalist. The diversity of sound and themes from song to song represent the dynamic nature of not just Stell's story, but of our own. Superdream broke new ground for the artist, setting the stage for a career led by his voice.
Looking forward into 2022 and beyond, Stell continues to expand his musical horizons by looking inward for more honest self-expression. With curiosity at the helm, Big Wild is already well down the path of his own stylistic creation.
Great atmosphere created by the band, big sound and fun times.
It was just so awesome, he is really talented. Played so many different instruments, had the crowd involved the whole time.
What an incredible show. Big Wild took us on a journey and created a truly beautiful experience. Great music, great venue. Good times had by all!
Jackson Dean
Jackson Dean performing on the BMI stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Odenton, Maryland native Jackson Dean is a singer/ songwriter known for his old school, gritty style of Country. Mature beyond his years, Jackson has a daring and carefree spirit, having moved out at 18 years old to live in a cinderblock, concrete floor, one-room shack on the back of his grandfather’s property with no heat and no plumbing.
Bringing that same sense of adventure to his songwriting, Jackson writes both independently and alongside outliers like Luke Dick, classic writers like Casey Beathard and everyone in between. Gearing up for his debut collection to be released via Big Machine Records this year, Jackson shows people how real music can be as he captures the reality of the life he has lived. Following an early career of local performances in his hometown, Jackson has joined bills with artists such as Kane Brown, Jake Owen and Brothers Osborne.
The best singer, the sweetest person. Can't wait to see him again and so proud to be a fan!
Jackson Dean is the best country singer out there today! Was amazing!
Kind of back to his roots as a Maryland guy even though he grew up closer to the Bay than the mountains. Super great concert, such talent in those 4 young guys and amazing Jackson is only 21 years old, they'll quickly go to the top of country talent like our other MD band, Brothers Osbourne!
The Marias
The Marias performing on the Barton Springs stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Formed in Los Angeles in late 2016, The Marías are the psychedelic-soul lovechild of LA native, Josh Conway and Puerto Rican-bred, Atlanta-raised María. A smooth rendezvous of jazz percussion, hypnotic guitar riffs, smoke-velvet vocals and nostalgic horn solos, there’s something undeniably sensual in the group’s dreamlike fusion of jazz, psychedelia, funk and lounge.
With María on lead vocals and Josh on drums, the couple is joined by two of their closest friends and fellow musicians. On guitar, Jesse Perlman, born and bred of LA, with ‘tones that can melt steel,’ say his bandmates. On keys, Edward James.
I've seen them three times now and each time, I feel hypnotized by the band's performance. Magnetizing, yet calming!
I refuse to miss a show in the future. Such a beautiful experience. They’re so talented.
Been a fan since around 2018 so it was great to finally see them live. The sound was great and didn’t feel like I was going to suffocate unlike other concerts I’ve gone to.
Magdalena Bay
Magdalena Bay performing on the Tito's stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Embracing the volatility and vulnerability of the real world, LA-based indie-pop duo Magdalena Bay create a reality of their own - one that is equally shimmering as it is self aware. The band have used social platforms to dispatch their music, and what you might call their philosophy, in hypnotic, ephemeral bursts. To Mica Tenenbaum and Matt Lewin, reality can be unmade, manipulated beyond all recognition; their project is as much musical as it is an experiment in pop persona and visual aesthetics.
In October 2021, Magdalena Bay released their debut full-length LP, Mercurial World, via Luminelle, to critical acclaim. Written, produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by the duo, Mercurial World proposes an abstract theory of time and explores the staggering "what ifs" that make up the human experience. With roots in prog-rock and inspired by bleeding edge producers like Charli XCX and Grimes, the duo creates striking yet self aware soundscapes and visuals that are becoming their true Magdalena-Bay-world signature.
With a live show as captivating and dimensional as the music itself, 2022 boasts a sold out North America headline tour, and support dates with the likes of Flume, Porter Robinson and Charli XCX. Approaching actuality as a construct allows Magdalena Bay to enact their own, one that is committed to nothing but expanding the possible.
The performance was great.
The sound and world building of Mercurial World transferred to the stage and both Matt and Mica were at the merch stands meeting fans after the concert and even some before which was really nice.
What a absolute blessing being able to see to see them for a second time! They brought all the energy and it was another amazing experience. I love them so much and I'll be counting the days until I get to see them again.
Bia
Bia performing on the Miller Lite stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Hip-hop artist, emcee, and television personality, BiA (aka Perico Princess) incorporates Latin and trap music into her brand of rap. Rapper Fam-Lay discovered the Boston native and immediately introduced her to super-producer Pharrell Williams.
Lying bandaged and unable to walk after experiencing a near-fatal motorcycle accident, Pharrell called her for a verse on an upcoming project. Despite her physical state, she insisted she could work, proving her skill and determination.
Faye Webster
Faye Webster performing on the Barton Springs stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Faye Webster loves the feeling of a first take: writing a song, then heading to the studio with her band to track it live the very next day. When you listen to the 23-year-old Atlanta songwriter’s poised and plainspoken albums, you can hear why: she channels emotions that are so aching, they seem to be coming into existence at that very moment.
Webster captures the spark before it has a chance to fade; she inks lyrics before they have a chance to seem fleeting. Her signature sound pairs close, whisper-quiet, home-recorded vocals with the unmistakable sound of musicians together in a room.
Seeing Faye Webster on top of a mountain is ideal. Really hard to top.
Saw Faye for the first time with a friend and they were awesome, it was such a fun night!
The anticipation was insane. The blowup bust grew as did the applause. She is a great performer. Wore all of the hats that fans threw on the stage and conversed with the audience. Beautiful voice. Great vibes all around.
Urban Heat
Urban Heat performing on the BMI stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Urban Heat is a post-punk synth-pop band from Austin Texas. Their modern take and production on classic sounds is gaining attention and 2022 looks to be a promising year for the group.
Wilderado
Wilderado performing on the Tito's stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Indie rockers Wilderado blend elements of their Southern roots with touches of sunny California dreamin'. This sound very much reflects the band's own evolution: Its members grew up in Oklahoma and Texas, then cut their teeth in Los Angeles, before moving back closer to home. But it was their time on the West Coast that helped establish Wilderado's soaring, muscular indie rock.
The group originally released a handful of singles under the name Bird Dog before dropping their debut EP ‘Misty Shrub' in early 2016. The EP runs on steady, propulsive rhythms, moody acoustic licks, and rich harmonies reminiscent of bands like Band of Horses, Fleet Foxes, and Kings of Leon. But soon, after performing shows in Brooklyn, they were forced to change their name (by request of another Bird Dog band). The first day back on tour is when inspiration struck: Driving late at night, they passed through a small Texas town called Wildorado. They decided to swap the "o" out and became Wilderado. With a new name, the band soon slimmed down from a quintet to a quartet and unveiled their new moniker with a second EP, ‘Latigo,' recorded in their own home studio in Malibu. The four-song set further highlights their emotive, folk-tinged rock with anthemic tracks like "Morning Light."
Lead singer/guitarist Max Rainer, bassist/vocalist Colton Dearing, guitarist/vocalist Tyler Wimpee, and drummer Justin Kila would eventually take this sound on the road, grabbing key slots at major festivals like Bonnaroo and Austin City Limits. During this time, they'd work on solidifying their next EP, ‘Favors,' with producer Phil Ek (Father John Misty, Fleet Foxes, The Shins), giving their anthemic rock some punches of Americana twang and Laurel Canyon mysticism. In the process, they'd settle back in their homebase of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and head back on the road in 2018 alongside art-pop quartet Sure Sure.
This is the best live show I have been! Max sings every single piece of the music to the ends, their music is way much better than what you listening to on Spotify with all the vibes, I will love this band forever.
Wilderado was absolutely amazing! The venue, the people and most importantly the best songs. They totally delivered! Can’t wait to see them again.
Always a great show! Original, creative, and genuine! Wilderado is as real as it gets, gifted songwriters and musicians who perform every show as if it's for a group of their friends. Catch them live anytime you can!
Yungblud
Yungblud performing on the American Express stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Emerging from the gritty north of England Yungblud brings to the stage an explosion of raw energy and thought-provoking lyrics. He has created his own blend of alternative rock: poetry, guitar-hooks and break-beats with a fierce determination to make a dent in pop-culture. Dangerously sexy, startlingly bold yet emotionally grounded Yungblud drops a grenade on his audience members imprinting himself in their minds.
Going to the Yungblud show was awesome, it was my son's first concert and my first concert as well. The only thing that sucked was the venue was so small that my son couldn't dance and jump around like he wanted to to really enjoy the show. Looking forward to going to another concert.
Went and saw Yungblud twice on this tour and he put on a great show both times. Seeing him come to life on the stage and seeing how he treats his fans makes me want to go back again and again. The music is great, the crowd is supportive of all, it is a great fun time to be apart of.
That night was my first ever time seeing Yungblud and he was phenomenal! Had an absolute blast at the show and getting to meet him outside the venue afterwards! I also made lots of friends in the audience. I would definitely go to another one of his shows in the future.
Buffalo Nichols
Buffalo Nichols performing on the Tito's stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Since his earliest infatuations with guitar, Buffalo Nichols has asked himself the same question: How can I bring the blues of the past into the future? After cutting his teeth between a Baptist church and bars in Milwaukee, it was a globetrotting trip through West Africa and Europe during a creative down period that began to reveal the answer.
“Part of my intent, making myself more comfortable with this release, is putting more Black stories into the genres of folk and blues,” guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist Carl “Buffalo” Nichols explains. “Listening to this record, I want more Black people to hear themselves in this music that is truly theirs.” That desire is embodied in his self-titled debut album—Fat Possum’s first solo blues signing in nearly 20 years—composed largely of demos and studio sessions recorded between Wisconsin and Texas.
Loved his set. Super talented guitarist. Will definitely try and catch one of his other shows.
Joshua Ray Walker
Joshua Ray Walker performing on the BMI stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Joshua grew up listening to the 80's and 90's pop country that played on his parents car radio like many young Texans did at that time, but he was more interested in the records played in his grandfather's garage, where he spent most of his free time as a child. His grandfather, Ray, had a large collection of Rag-time, Bluegrass and folk music from the Smokey Mountains, where he grew up but played almost as often were Ray's "dance" records.
He and Joshua's grandmother, Gail, had been professional dance instructors in Manhattan, where they met, before moving to Texas in the 70's. They brought along stacks of old salsa, meringue, rumba, bossa nova, cha-cha and even some South African penny whistle and choral music. This shaped Joshua's early career as a musician. His first instrument was Ray's four string tenor banjo. He soon graduated to a five string and then, at eight years old, a classical guitar after taking interest in flamenco music. At nine he was placed in his first formal lessons with a blues guitarist at a local music store. It didn't take long for him to want an electric so he could emulate the style he had seen his teacher play. Due to family financial issues Joshua could no longer take lessons and so began his self education as a musician.
Joshua Ray absolutely killed it last night! Just learned of him last year and I've loved every song Outlaw Country has been playing but his performance blew away my expectations. Great songwriter and guitarist with an unbelievable voice. The whole band put on a great show. Highly recommend seeing them.
I had been following Joshua for a few months and looked forward to hearing him live. I had not realized that this was part of Dosey Doe's "Real Life - Real Music" series which included a very talented interviewer as part of the performance. Even though it slightly reduced the number of songs performed, learning his backstory and influences in his own voice was really enjoyable. I got to meet him after the gig and thanked him for not being cookie-cutter.
Great voice, good guitar playing, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing him. I wish he was more well known!
Tom Odell
Tom Odell performing on the Barton Springs stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Chichester, England-born Tom Odell studied classical piano as a child and started writing songs at age 13. After high school he abandoned plans to attend university and instead focused on music, performing at open mic nights around the Liverpool area. He enrolled in the Brighton Institute of Modern Music shortly after and started the band Tom and the Tides, but ultimately decided to go solo.
He got a break in the early '10s when British pop sensation Lilly Allen saw one of his London performances and signed him to her label, resulting in his 2012 debut EP Songs from Another Love. He followed up in 2013 with his first album Long Way Down, a No. 1 smash on the UK Albums Chart that produced a string of popular singles including the Top 10 hit "Another Love." A slew of accolades followed, including the BRITs Critics' Choice Award and a nomination for the prestigious BBC Sound poll.
Tom was amazing! He’s the best singer!
Goosebumps moments guaranteed. Very intimate and genuine performance.
His deep voice brings up some raw emotions! This artist is underrated, his live performance (voice, piano, emotions) are such much better than his recorded audio. I was sad when the concert was over. I could’ve stayed and listen to his voice more. I can’t wait for him to come back.
Me Nd Adam
Me Nd Adam performing on the Tito's stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Me Nd Adam is the depraved result of a relationship between a self-loathing egotist and a boisterous, red-headed emotional wreck. After meeting in New Orleans and hating each other, Adam & Vince parted ways. Unfortunately, there can be no despair without hope, no discord without union, no darkness without light. Thus, Adam & Vince came to realize they had no choice but to embrace their differences and craft the emotionally turbulent, electropop duo, Me Nd Adam. Now living the dream in a small apartment in Brooklyn, they're sharing their hope-tinged despair with the world.
Spectacular “Over The Top” ACL show by Me nd Adam. Don’t ever miss seeing and hearing this band. One of many more to come.
The show was fantastic! Great songwriters and musicians! Adam, Vince, Bobby, Marcel and Ian give the audience everything they’ve got. Loved the grittiness of the lyrics, the polished production, and energetic stage presence of the band. Our group of friends had the best night ever dancing and singing along. Can’t wait to see Me nd Adam again!
Badass! Every single show!
Taipei Houston
Taipei Houston performing on the Honda stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Two-piece Taipei Houston, comprised of Myles and Layne Ulrich, have shared their debut single, "As The Sun Sets" via C3 Records. The intoxicatingly thrilling track is balanced between a distorted bass and tight, snappy drums briskly breaking for a swift proclamation at the chorus. With the song's release, the band also unveil the dizzying and electric music video directed by Victor Grossling.
Taipei Houston are a duo from the Bay Area in Northern California. Comprised of brothers Myles (drums, guitar) and Layne Ulrich (lead vocals, bass), who play drums and bass respectively, the band was born out of both brothers coming back to their childhood home during the pandemic. They then moved down to Los Angeles, and once able to perform live again, started playing shows throughout Southern California.
Taipei Houston viscerally tap into all of the best parts of the last 30 years of rock 'n' roll, layering garage rock's frenetic sparsity with grunge's fuzzy overdrive, and psych rock's effortless instrumental sprawl. The band's megawatt, slinky songs instantly conjure other iconic duos, such as The Kills, Death From Above 1979, and, of course, The White Stripes.
Flora and Fawna
Flora and Fawna performing on the Miller Lite stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Flora & Fawna are diving back in with their second single off of their forthcoming EP, “Never Mine”. Hot off the heels of their latest release “Long Shot”, “Never Mine” is its polar opposite. Produced alongside L.A.-based Misha Hercules (Maggie Rogers, Wavves, Steve Lacy, Rostam Batmanglij), The song weaves a twisted look into longing for what will never work out.
The song begins amidst swirling, chopped piano loops that build into a dark driving bass. The choruses breach into a brash supersaw, mirroring an internal plunge- the cool thrill of breaking into a pool at night. Structurally, the song has intense highs and vulnerable lows that lead to a rollercoaster of emotions, and lyrics that let you come up for air.
Siena Liggins
Siena Liggins performing on the BMI stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
In two years Siena Liggins has gone from an unknown behind-the-scenes songwriter to one of Billboard's Top Ten Rising LGBTQ+ artists sharing stages with the likes of Lizzo, Doja Cat, King Princess, Baby Tate, and Tkay Maidza.
Siena’s much-anticipated debut album, "Ms. Out Tonight", arrived complete with fast-paced, sensory overload visuals for every song, coverage from The FADER, Buzzfeed, Refinery 29, and Earmilk to name a few, an album premiere experience in Atlanta, and has now surpassed 2.5 million streams with features on playlists across every streaming platform including Spotify's New Music Friday, Fresh Finds and the cover of Tidal’s Rising: Pop playlist.
Pleasure Venom
Pleasure Venom performing on the Barton Springs stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Explosive experimental garage punk outfit Pleasure Venom of Austin, Texas, explores topics of love, sex, resentment, and the general “absurdity of it all,” consistently blasting audiences with a firehose deluge of fierce femme-punk rock led by singer, Audrey Campbell on vocals, Thomas Valles on drums, Chase Dungan on Guitar and Jordan Emmert on bass.
Danielle Ponder
Danielle Ponder performing on the T-Mobile stage at the ACL Music Festival on October 16, 2022. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
"A sound that serves as the perfect voice of a movement: anthemic while compassionate; soulful while bold and strong. She reverberates with a goose bump-inducing passion" — NPR All Songs Considered
Danielle stole our heart! I just looked at my wife and we both said this is an incredible performance. I just hope that people will continue to discover the beautiful performer who will shake their world. I'm looking forward to our next concert seeing this legend in the making...it's happening now!
Wow! She is so talented! It was a huge treat to get to know her music! Powerful voice! Keep an eye out for this one! She will be big!
For anyone who loves music, Danielle Ponder is a name you should get to know. She is going to take the world by storm with her incredible soulful voice, lyrics that tap into what so many are feeling and/or going through. Seeing her live is a treat, esp in a small intimate setting.
Austin City Limits Music Festival
The Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival is an annual music festival held in Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on two consecutive three-day weekends. Inspired by the KLRU/PBS music series of the same name, the festival is produced by Austin-based company C3 Presents, which also produces Chicago's Lollapalooza.The ACL Music Festival has eight stages where musical groups from genres including rock, indie, country, folk, electronic and hip hop perform for fans. The concerts continue until 10:00 PM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the festival with various stages spread out in the park. Approximately 450,000 people attend the festival each year. In addition to the music performances, there are food and drinks, an art market, a kids area for families, and other activities for attendees.
Austin City Limits Music Festival
web | facebook | twitter | instagram
Words and photos by Makayla Arvesen
facebook | twitter | instagram
Photos by Ralph Arvesen
web | facebook | twitter | instagram
