As the annual Voodoo Fest is fast approaching, we thought we’d share our Top Ten picks of the best choices for this great weekend of music. This year, as you’ll see, most of the amazing acts are being saved for the large main stage, “Altar.” Sure, there are many, many different flavors sprinkled throughout the bill, but the big acts—and some of the most interesting—are predominantly holding the big slots. Either way, there’s something here for everyone. Just in case you haven’t heard of all of these, now’s the time to do some research. This list has some great electronic acts, some hip hop, and a variety of all-over-the-place rock music. Enjoy the fest!
10. BRAND NEW, Saturday, 7:30 p.m., Altar Stage
One of the great post-punk emo bands of their era, Brand New looks to cap off their solidly profound career with what’s sure to bring a big crowd to the main stage. This band isn’t for everyone, but of all the non-headliner acts playing this weekend, a ton of people are excited for this one.
9. MANNEQUIN PUSSY, Sunday, 12:45 p.m., Wisner Stage
This foursome is still making their way up the ladder, but after seeing them just a few weeks ago at a local bar, I can say that this fiery, female-fronted band is not to be missed, assuming you can make it out for their early start time. They’re a combo reminiscent of early Nirvana in terms of their emotion and their Hole-like style. This will be a great chance to see what the band is capable of bringing to an early-day set full of viscous energy.
8. KEHLANI, Friday, 5:00 p.m., Altar Stage
Mixing a sultry voice and great aesthetic, Oakland-born Kehlani will bring her unique brand of danceable, soulful hip hop to the main stage just as the sun starts to descend. Expect some sing-alongs and audience participation as she entertains the crowd with her pure and gorgeous voice. She might be a relative newcomer in the mix, but she’s steadily rising and is a must-see.
7. THE BLACK ANGELS, Saturday, 3:30 p.m., Altar Stage
For years I’ve heard the name, but it wasn’t until their excellent album Death Song came out this year that I truly understood how good they are. Combining a dark, bluesy overtone with a singer with a hypnotic and eerie voice, The Black Angels will assault the crowd with a thick sound that fits like a glove in the murky culture of New Orleans.
6. CRYSTAL CASTLES, Saturday, 8:30 p.m., Wisner Stage
Expect lots of strobes, wild energy, lights, and sheer pandemonium when the chaos that is Crystal Castles arrives for their first Voodoo set. With new singer Edith Frances in the lead, expect more new songs than old, though from what I hear, the energy is on par with the early days of the band. Stay back if you’re prone to seizures or will be bothered by more smoke than a house fire.
5. MARIAN HILL, Friday, 3:00 p.m., Altar Stage
Last year at Bonnaroo, the on-stage trio gradually built upon their modest accomplishments to sway the crowd and get them in their corner. Since that early show, the band has had a string of successes, including the radio hit “Down.” Marian Hill’s real power is how well the vocalist Samantha Gongol is able to cultivate an aura that is as necessary to watch as the music is to listen to. Expect a soulful performance for a full crowd on opening day.
4. FOO FIGHTERS, Saturday, 9:30 p.m., Altar Stage
Simply put, one of the greatest rock bands of our generation. If you saw their set a few years ago, you already know these dudes know exactly how to ensure an incredible experience for all in attendance. After playing for nearly three hours a few years back, they have significantly less time this year, but I still anticipate a fun, free-spirited sing-along set with all of the best hits that they have at their disposal.
3. KENDRICK LAMAR, Friday, 9:30 p.m., Altar Stage
Easily one of the more prominent and dominant hip-hop artists of the last decade, Lamar will headline the opening night with a mix of inspiration, antagonistic attitudes, and social relevance that is desperately needed in our current culture. Each album builds on the strength of his message, and he has many hits he can use to fuel his energy, as well as the crowd’s. Be sure to have a spot for what is likely to be one of the most talked-about sets of the weekend.
2. LCD SOUNDSYSTEM, Friday, 7:00 p.m., Altar Stage
Since reforming last year, the James Murphy-led LCD Soundsystem has mostly been headlining various festivals. Recently, the band released their first post-reunion album, American Dream, which continues the excellence that band has delivered since their first record all those years ago. Prepare for tons of energy, heavy-hitting dance tracks with a punk attitude, and if recent shows are any indication, an epic rendition of the band's crowning achievement in songwriting, “All My Friends.”
1. THE KILLERS, Sunday, 7:30 p.m., Altar Stage
According to some, this Vegas foursome has slowly dwindled in genuine hits and inspiring music. But those people likely haven’t heard the newest record Wonderful Wonderful. With Brandon Flowers at the helm, the Killers will be ready to close out their first Voodoo Fest appearance since 2004, when they played the very first set of the day on the main stage. What a long way to come in just 13 years, but it’s well-earned. I’m sure the massive crowd will be thrilled to sing along to “When You Were Young,” “All These Things That I’ve Done,” and the multitude of other classic tracks the band has under their belt.
