The lineup seems to be getting back to the basics, no electronic -nu groove style-jam bands this year, and so far, not even Keller Williams will be playing (but there is still time). The bands that are jamming out on stage at this years vibes seem to be a lot more mellow and alterna-jammy style. We have Phil Lesh and friends that seem to make it to every Vibes lineup,. There are also some old friends making on-stage appearances this year with something new and exciting. we have Mike Gordon who was the bassist and co-founder of the band Phish, who ended their touring in 2004, with a new solo band that I know I am excited to see. Phish had one of the most dedicated followings of any band I have ever seen, so although I was unable to see them in the past, I can at least catch a glimpse with Mike Gordon's solo set.
Another old friend is the Grateful Dead's drummer and founding member, Bill Kreutzmann with his new trio that includes guitarist Scott Murawski of the band Max Creek as well as bassist Oteil Burbridge of the Allman Brothers. There is also Deep Banana Blackout who usually spice things up on the 2nd night at Vibes, they get down and oh yes, they bring the funk. More of this years line up includes the usual but always looked forward to: Derek Trucks & Susan Tedeschi, The Black Crows, Assembly of Dust, (the always amazing) Dark Star Orchestra, Strangefolk, Donna Jean and the Tricksters, and many more to be announced. There is car-side camping which can always be expected at Vibes, as well as a beautiful Seaside Park to run around and play in all weekend while the music moves your feet.
If you need to hitch a ride just get on the Vibes trolley to take you to your next destination, and if you're roasting in the sun or just want to go for a swim, seaside park has a gorgeous beach, volleyball nets, an on-site beach stage for the afternoon smaller bands, and plenty of other activities like the Karma wash, body/face painting, an area designed for the little ones of all ages, and yes, actual bathrooms and showers onsite at this venue. So this years vibes so far seems to have a little old with a side of a little new, and some mixed in to create a whole new spin on the classic bands that we love and would never fully want to let go of.
As far as the weather at vibes it is generally beautiful and sunny, but there are always at least 1 rainy day at a festival. So don't forget to bring lots of extra clothes and rain gear. I made the mistake of not packing these items last year, and let me tell you, you're 100 feet away from the beach with the sun going down and the rain coming down hard, things get wet and freezing (things meaning everything), and you do not want to get stuck with cold wet clothes all weekend. So if you will be attending this festival strap on your sandals, pack enough to survive, let your guard completely down, have fun, get ready to jam out and dance your face off, and let your freak flag fly.
