Pickathon Music Festival 2024: Embracing a New Wave of Sound and Community
(Featured photo: Nehemiah Sliwoski)[Get your Pickathon 2024 tickets here!]
As we sweat through the warmth of mid-summer and dip into the dreamy haze of August, the stages are set for another extraordinary four-day weekend at Pickathon 2024. Nestled in the serene embrace of Pendarvis Farm in Happy Valley, Oregon, this enchanting festival promises a transcendent celebration of music, nature, and community. Featuring a stellar lineup of headliners (including a beloved return act) and emerging talents across various genres, Pickathon 2024 is poised to deliver an unforgettable weekend of sonic exploration and camaraderie. This year, the festival also brings an enhanced focus on wellness, art, and comedy, ensuring a holistic and vibrant experience for all attendees.
Stage-blazing Headliners:
Courtney Barnett: This Australian indie rock queen returns for a second go at Pickathon, a decade later. ELEVEN asked her about the vibes last time:
CB: “I thought it was an amazing festival. Every festival is kind of different [either] city or forest-y or on a farm and Pickathon was just a very memorable place. It was good vibes. The setting and the mood that the setting seemed to create. Everyone was in a really positive and friendly mood. The atmosphere was good. It makes a huge difference [compared to] a total rock and roll thing where everyone is taking lots of drugs and trying to bash each other up and shit.”
Courtney is known for her witty lyrics and captivates audiences with her blend of garage rock and folk, bringing her introspective yet powerful sound to the forefront. Her performance on Sunday night at The Paddock will be one to stay for.
Bonnie “Prince” Billy: The enigmatic Will Oldham, performing as Bonnie “Prince” Billy, will grace Pickathon with his poignant and evocative songwriting. His unique blend of indie folk and alt-country, coupled with his deeply emotional delivery, promises a soul-stirring experience for all attendees.
Durand Jones: A modern soul revivalist, Durand Jones brings the heat with his powerful voice and captivating stage presence. Expect an electrifying performance filled with heartfelt emotion and classic soul vibes that will transport the audience to a higher plane of musical nirvana.
Elephant Revival: This Colorado-based band is known for its genre-transcending sound, blending elements of Celtic, Americana, Folk and Indie Art Rock. Their harmonious melodies and spiritual lyricism will create an ethereal atmosphere, perfect for a festival set in the natural beauty of Pendarvis Farm.
Tantalizing Talent Aplenty:
Beyond the top billing, Pickathon 2024 always boasts a treasure trove of hidden gems and about-to-explodes, eagerly waiting to share their unique sounds and talents with the world.
Vacations: This Australian indie rock band will weave a dreamy spell over the audience with their lo-fi guitar riffs and evocative lyrics. Their hazy melodies and nostalgic soundscapes are sure to create an atmosphere of introspection and connection.
Cocorosie: The avant-garde duo of sisters Bianca and Sierra Casady, known as Cocorosie, will enchant festival-goers with their eclectic mix of folk, opera, and electronica. Their unique blend of genres and hauntingly beautiful vocals promise a truly unforgettable performance.
Adi Oasis: With a fusion of neo-soul, funk, and jazz, Adi Oasis will get the crowd moving with her infectious grooves and sultry voice. Her dynamic performances are a treat for the ears and feet alike, turning the stage into a dancefloor.
Vincent Neil Emerson: This Texas-based singer-songwriter brings a refreshing blend of Americana and folk. With heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies, Vincent Neil Emerson’s performance will create an intimate connection with the audience.
A Global Musical Odyssey:
Pickathon 2024 takes pride in its dedication to showcasing a diverse range of music from different corners of the globe. The festival is a treasure trove of musical cultures, offering attendees a unique opportunity to embark on a global musical odyssey.
Geese: Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Geese brings their vibrant indie rock sound to the Pickathon stage. With a blend of post-punk energy and modern rock sensibilities, their performance promises to be a high-energy highlight of the festival.
The Soul Rebels: Straight from New Orleans, The Soul Rebels will infuse Pickathon with the infectious rhythms of brass band music, blending funk, soul, and hip-hop into a dynamic and joyous performance that will have the entire crowd dancing.
Irreversible Entanglements: This Philadelphia-based avant-garde jazz collective will take festival-goers on a sonic journey with their politically charged and improvisational performances. Their music is a powerful blend of free jazz, spoken word, and experimental sounds.
Melissa Carper: Known for her classic country sound and timeless songwriting, Melissa Carper’s performance will transport the audience to a simpler time, filled with heartwarming stories and soulful melodies.
Beyond the Stages:
At Pickathon, the music doesn’t stop with the headliners and scheduled performances. One of the festival’s greatest delights is the spontaneous collaborations and performance sessions that spring up throughout campsites, hidden groves, and wooded offshoots.
Art Installations: The festival’s picturesque setting is adorned with art installations that complement the natural beauty of Pendarvis Farm. Attendees can immerse themselves in a world of creativity, exploring interactive art and installations scattered throughout the grounds.
Food and Drink Delights: Pickathon prides itself on offering a diverse range of culinary delights to satisfy every palate. From local delicacies to international flavors, food vendors ensure that festival-goers can indulge in delectable treats and stay energized throughout the event.
Eco-Consciousness and Sustainability: True to its ethos, Pickathon prioritizes eco-consciousness and sustainability. With composting, recycling initiatives, and encouragement for carpooling and public transportation, the festival targets a zero-waste footprint, reminding everyone of the importance of preserving nature so we can do this every year!
A Community of Music Lovers:
Pickathon’s allure is as much about the music as it is about the sense of community that thrives throughout the festival. The intimate setting encourages connections and friendships to blossom, as strangers become friends and music enthusiasts become kindred spirits both on and off the farm. Pickathon Family is real.
Workshops and Discussions: Pickathon isn’t just about watching performances; it’s also about learning and growing together. Workshops and discussions covering a range of topics, from music production to sustainable living, provide a platform for artists and attendees to engage in meaningful conversations.
Neighborhoods: A Harmonious Fusion of Music and Nature:
Pickathon 2024 isn’t just a music festival; it’s an immersive experience that celebrates the harmonious fusion of music and nature. The enchanting setting of Pendarvis Farm, surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking landscapes, provides the perfect backdrop for artists and attendees to connect with their surroundings and each other. This year’s setup continues the tradition of unique neighborhood stages, offering a magical and distinct experience at each one.
The Cherry Hill Stage: Formerly known as the Treeline stage and nestled among towering trees, the Cherry Hill offers initiates an inspired atmosphere for unique sets and introspective performances. Here, artists and audience members come together, creating a magical ambiance that stays connected long after the festival ends.
The Woods Stage: “Hidden” deep within the forest, the Woods Stage feels like an otherworldly sanctuary for musicians and listeners alike. Surrounded by towering trees and dappled sunlight, artists create ethereal performances, weaving their music into the natural rhythms of the woodland.
The Refuge: As a place of relaxation and reflection, the Refuge provides a calm and peaceful space for attendees to unplug and recharge, and even get a massage!
Let’s Freaking Go:
As the curtains rise on Pickathon 2024, music lovers find themselves at the threshold of this magical musical wonderland. From headliners lighting up the night sky to the rising stars sharing their glow, the diverse lineup promises a vibrant tapestry of sounds and emotions. On the sunny pine-kissed farm, Pickathon offers more than just music; it’s a chance to connect with like-minded souls, embark on a global musical journey, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
[What are you waiting for? Get your Pickathon 2024 tickets now!]
