Author: Eric Jensen, Managing Editor
You know that political bumper sticker that reads, “If you’re not outraged, then you’re not paying attention”? Well it’s advisable to adopt the opposite sentiment when it comes to this year’s Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival line-up. If you are outraged, you’re just not paying attention. The headliners, of course, are a colossal disappointment.
Throughout the months leading up to the big announcement, rumors of David Bowie and Radiohead leading the glorious sonic carnival that is Coachella gushed between steadfast fans of the annual event, which has been held outdoors in sweltering Indio, California, at Empire Polo Field since 1993. Most were unafraid to indulge in such high expectations after experiencing 2007’s strong set of main acts, including Rage Against The Machine, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Björk.
So when the indisputably boring Jack Johnson, little-known Portishead and an ambiguous act involving Pink Floyd singer and bassist Roger Waters appeared in the largest print on the line-up list, many felt horribly betrayed, perhaps rightfully so. But it would be foolish to reject an event that hosts literally hundreds of bands based solely on disappointing headliners. The rest of the list is packed with freak-out-worthy artists: Fatboy Slim, Aesop Rock, Death Cab for Cutie, The Streets and Bonde Do Role.
Even if those names don’t excite the whole crowd, one of the best things about Coachella is that it’s the perfect opportunity to get into new or lesser-known bands. Headliner Portishead, while less recognizable than past acts like The Beastie Boys or Nine Inch Nails, is allegedly one of the most requested bands on the event’s online message boards.
Other foreign bands also get the chance to spread their popularity. Pendulum-originally from Perth, Australia, and now relocated to the UK-already have a huge following overseas.
“They’re massive in England,” English exchange student Will Stroud said. “Their live show is absolutely mental.”
The general experience of Coachella is further impetus to let the underwhelming headliners slide. Especially for those who haven’t been before, there is something extremely life-affirming about seeing three days of great shows in the middle of a desert. Ultimately, the good of Coachella makes up for any shortcomings—even the only-moms-like-my-CD uncoolness that will inevitably accompany Jack Johnson.
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