Escapism from Ogygia
Escapism from Ogygia
Share Dialog
Share Dialog
Subscribe to Ogygia Radio
Subscribe to Ogygia Radio
<100 subscribers
<100 subscribers
To continue the Bonnaroo magic, I continuously think of the memories I made while on that farm feeling earthly extremes that make my immortal self feel closer to human. As time passes, those glasses get more saturated by that rose-colored hue. Still, some aspects remain the same: People Smiling, Beers Shotgunned, Positivity Radiated, Friday High Fived, Dancing from Dusk till Dawn, Warmness of Love, Overwhelming Emotions, and Unique Memories.
To be quite honest, there is way more to Bonnaroo (at least in music festivals generally) that goes beyond just the core reason you went there, listening to music. You (singular or plural) went through a lot of effort to get to that point by the motivation of music.
The act of going to the farm requires a lot of ramp-up, and plenty of runway to feel like you will have a successful take-off. In that planning comes mapping out the lineup schedule, deciding on the sets/activities, and making tough choices over time clashes. This aspect of preparation is the most crucial, and kinda of the point of why many go to music-oriented festivals (it's all about that sweet sweet lineup baby!)
But, when it was all said and done you were left with the experiences that leave unique memories, and that is always drawing you back (even if it is reminiscent memories) because that is now something that can never be taken from you.
The best part is many of those memories were unplanned, spontaneous, and the farm/universe fully meddling with your fate. It is similar to going to ride a rollercoaster, you've journeyed to the amusement park, bought the ticket, prepared yourself, queued, and got strapped in. After all that effort to set yourself up for this moment, now it is just time to let go put your damn hands up, scream, smile, feel, and enjoy the ride.
Contrary to literally what was just said, my dear friends, I am a planner. I love to strategize, prepare for all outcomes, and egregiously plan the music festival's daily set schedule. While I maintain a good idea of what I am capable of, sometimes excitement takes over, and you find yourself a tad over-scheduled. So, to continue this reflection in honor of letting go let's look at the planned vs. unplanned daily set schedules.
~Circled in white were the expected sets to see and the reality sets seen, and the little white star marks were they absolutely had to see. ~
Day 1: Touching Grass
Expectation
Reality
Things went immediately haywire, but hey it was officially time to let go! An unofficial event in the arch entrance of Centeroo at 2 pm was to collectively shot gun a beer. Shotgun-a-roo kicked things off in an amazing way, it led to seeing old friends, making new friends, and making the impromptu plan to get merch early.
However: Michigander, Eggy, and Medium Build were the first set of casualties.
I heard they all were great, just got distracted it was my first time in a while getting off Ogygia, gosh!
Nation of Language, for Cal, was the perfect way to kick off Roo musically. Their ability to integrate the synth 80s sound and modern indie, while getting the people going chefs kiss, and I made my neighbor an immediate fan contrary to her early skepticism.
On my way back from the restroom to see Chris Lake, I ran into some newly made friends at the Other during It's Murph,
Day 2: All in
Expectation
Reality
Rip in Peace 49 Winchester and Japanese House I wanted to see y'all but this was a purely energy-saving move to see Grouplove.
The Driver Era was fantastic, with great vibes, and excellent sound, looked very happy to be there, and I... um.... couldn't .... keep my eyes off Rocky, next!
Can we talk about Grouplove? Because I want to talk about Grouplove!!! WHAT A PHENOMENAL SHOW, this was my end-all-be-all be-all show that I did not care what happened to me, I could leave with a successful Roo. As a long-time fan, they exceeded expectations, I have never seen so much positivity, and I gladly lost my voice for the following two weeks for them 10/10 recommend it if you never want to be the same again.
TV Girl, recovering from the highest high, TV Girl was a perfect follow-up at This Tent. Straight vibes I'm talking about romanticism, melancholy, humor, self-awareness, and blue hair.
So still recovering from Grouplove lol. It was time for a little breakey break aka shower finally. Maggie Rogers's hopes were quickly diminished. In a trend now that if it breaks I fear the fates, the coldest shower possible left me quite literally revitalized, eating what felt like the best camp ramen ever, and transitioning into wook attire. Reentering Centroo with a full health bar, I was able to catch the last half of
Day 3: Go Hard
Expectation
Reality
As in the title Saturday was my dedicated go-hard day. Roo is a marathon, not a sprint and with that many people will choose a day where all that conserved energy gets released.
Naturally the first three acts (Ryan Beatty, The Maine, and Ethel Cain) were not seen. Just too hot, and like sailors listening to a siren it was hard to not listen to the forest filled with hammocks calling for Cal.
Imagine the stunning powerful vocals of Brittany Howard, sitting under a shade tree, surrounded by strangers, sipping on a summer shandy. That was pretty close to the ideal summer day one can get.
Test your friends to a vibe check with Neil Frances and Kasablanca. Hypnotic, Trance, and househead lovers are more than welcome. Despite seeing Kasablanca many times, they remain a solid option that never turns stale.
Again having seen Cage the Elephant before they never disappoint. An Energetic lively performance that is grounding, and hits a deep chord within.
Day 4: All out
Expectation
Reality
Chappell Roan aka Chappell Roo, was the most anticipated and exciting performance to cause a buzz on the farm beyond the bees on the left side of What stage. Her upgraded slot to the Which stage was an absolute necessity, and every roovian was thankful for the event listening to their people. Despite the oppressive sun and heat, Chappell and her band of nurses ate, left no crumbs, and harbored a haven. Chappell was a quintessential representation of what the spirit of Bonnaroo was about, and the sacred environment the farm provides. Everyone is a Pink Pony girl <3.
In need of relief, a summer shandy and shady tree was the necessary medicine for Cal. Attempting some shut-eye, I listened to Yves Tumor's set from a distance. The music was fine, but there was some controversy about behavior, disrespect towards camera operators/equipment, and off vibes about the overall performance. Either way, I was happy to take the remainder of Sunday super easy. After all, this was all bonus festival time for me post Grouplove and Chappell.
Post cool-down break, it was time to enjoy Carly Rae Jepsen! She was fantastic, sounded beautiful, and was tragically interrupted by a passing storm. Loved her wrapping up her remaining time for her set with Kollage of course Call Me Maybe.
Back on Which Stage, was Goth Babe. He was one of my most anticipated had-to-see performances for Sunday. To which (haha punny me), he had exceeded all expectations with this groovy beach party vibe, his father's day performance playing with his dad, and just being amazingly happy to be there it was infectious.
HAPPY ROO!
To continue the Bonnaroo magic, I continuously think of the memories I made while on that farm feeling earthly extremes that make my immortal self feel closer to human. As time passes, those glasses get more saturated by that rose-colored hue. Still, some aspects remain the same: People Smiling, Beers Shotgunned, Positivity Radiated, Friday High Fived, Dancing from Dusk till Dawn, Warmness of Love, Overwhelming Emotions, and Unique Memories.
To be quite honest, there is way more to Bonnaroo (at least in music festivals generally) that goes beyond just the core reason you went there, listening to music. You (singular or plural) went through a lot of effort to get to that point by the motivation of music.
The act of going to the farm requires a lot of ramp-up, and plenty of runway to feel like you will have a successful take-off. In that planning comes mapping out the lineup schedule, deciding on the sets/activities, and making tough choices over time clashes. This aspect of preparation is the most crucial, and kinda of the point of why many go to music-oriented festivals (it's all about that sweet sweet lineup baby!)
But, when it was all said and done you were left with the experiences that leave unique memories, and that is always drawing you back (even if it is reminiscent memories) because that is now something that can never be taken from you.
The best part is many of those memories were unplanned, spontaneous, and the farm/universe fully meddling with your fate. It is similar to going to ride a rollercoaster, you've journeyed to the amusement park, bought the ticket, prepared yourself, queued, and got strapped in. After all that effort to set yourself up for this moment, now it is just time to let go put your damn hands up, scream, smile, feel, and enjoy the ride.
Contrary to literally what was just said, my dear friends, I am a planner. I love to strategize, prepare for all outcomes, and egregiously plan the music festival's daily set schedule. While I maintain a good idea of what I am capable of, sometimes excitement takes over, and you find yourself a tad over-scheduled. So, to continue this reflection in honor of letting go let's look at the planned vs. unplanned daily set schedules.
~Circled in white were the expected sets to see and the reality sets seen, and the little white star marks were they absolutely had to see. ~
Day 1: Touching Grass
Expectation
Reality
Things went immediately haywire, but hey it was officially time to let go! An unofficial event in the arch entrance of Centeroo at 2 pm was to collectively shot gun a beer. Shotgun-a-roo kicked things off in an amazing way, it led to seeing old friends, making new friends, and making the impromptu plan to get merch early.
However: Michigander, Eggy, and Medium Build were the first set of casualties.
I heard they all were great, just got distracted it was my first time in a while getting off Ogygia, gosh!
Nation of Language, for Cal, was the perfect way to kick off Roo musically. Their ability to integrate the synth 80s sound and modern indie, while getting the people going chefs kiss, and I made my neighbor an immediate fan contrary to her early skepticism.
On my way back from the restroom to see Chris Lake, I ran into some newly made friends at the Other during It's Murph,
Day 2: All in
Expectation
Reality
Rip in Peace 49 Winchester and Japanese House I wanted to see y'all but this was a purely energy-saving move to see Grouplove.
The Driver Era was fantastic, with great vibes, and excellent sound, looked very happy to be there, and I... um.... couldn't .... keep my eyes off Rocky, next!
Can we talk about Grouplove? Because I want to talk about Grouplove!!! WHAT A PHENOMENAL SHOW, this was my end-all-be-all be-all show that I did not care what happened to me, I could leave with a successful Roo. As a long-time fan, they exceeded expectations, I have never seen so much positivity, and I gladly lost my voice for the following two weeks for them 10/10 recommend it if you never want to be the same again.
TV Girl, recovering from the highest high, TV Girl was a perfect follow-up at This Tent. Straight vibes I'm talking about romanticism, melancholy, humor, self-awareness, and blue hair.
So still recovering from Grouplove lol. It was time for a little breakey break aka shower finally. Maggie Rogers's hopes were quickly diminished. In a trend now that if it breaks I fear the fates, the coldest shower possible left me quite literally revitalized, eating what felt like the best camp ramen ever, and transitioning into wook attire. Reentering Centroo with a full health bar, I was able to catch the last half of
Day 3: Go Hard
Expectation
Reality
As in the title Saturday was my dedicated go-hard day. Roo is a marathon, not a sprint and with that many people will choose a day where all that conserved energy gets released.
Naturally the first three acts (Ryan Beatty, The Maine, and Ethel Cain) were not seen. Just too hot, and like sailors listening to a siren it was hard to not listen to the forest filled with hammocks calling for Cal.
Imagine the stunning powerful vocals of Brittany Howard, sitting under a shade tree, surrounded by strangers, sipping on a summer shandy. That was pretty close to the ideal summer day one can get.
Test your friends to a vibe check with Neil Frances and Kasablanca. Hypnotic, Trance, and househead lovers are more than welcome. Despite seeing Kasablanca many times, they remain a solid option that never turns stale.
Again having seen Cage the Elephant before they never disappoint. An Energetic lively performance that is grounding, and hits a deep chord within.
Day 4: All out
Expectation
Reality
Chappell Roan aka Chappell Roo, was the most anticipated and exciting performance to cause a buzz on the farm beyond the bees on the left side of What stage. Her upgraded slot to the Which stage was an absolute necessity, and every roovian was thankful for the event listening to their people. Despite the oppressive sun and heat, Chappell and her band of nurses ate, left no crumbs, and harbored a haven. Chappell was a quintessential representation of what the spirit of Bonnaroo was about, and the sacred environment the farm provides. Everyone is a Pink Pony girl <3.
In need of relief, a summer shandy and shady tree was the necessary medicine for Cal. Attempting some shut-eye, I listened to Yves Tumor's set from a distance. The music was fine, but there was some controversy about behavior, disrespect towards camera operators/equipment, and off vibes about the overall performance. Either way, I was happy to take the remainder of Sunday super easy. After all, this was all bonus festival time for me post Grouplove and Chappell.
Post cool-down break, it was time to enjoy Carly Rae Jepsen! She was fantastic, sounded beautiful, and was tragically interrupted by a passing storm. Loved her wrapping up her remaining time for her set with Kollage of course Call Me Maybe.
Back on Which Stage, was Goth Babe. He was one of my most anticipated had-to-see performances for Sunday. To which (haha punny me), he had exceeded all expectations with this groovy beach party vibe, his father's day performance playing with his dad, and just being amazingly happy to be there it was infectious.
HAPPY ROO!
The gyoza was fighting back, so it was time to call it a night. Leaving the GWAR set after like 20 minutes I caught some of the Chris Lake on the way out, (I low-key wish I was able to catch more of his set) and moseyed my way to camp Calypso.
I was majorly turned into a fan of Seven Lions, but with the impending sleep debt needing to be paid, it was time to call it a night. After all, I saw Grouplove everything else was a bonus, and Day 3 was my chosen go-hard day!
I still need confirmation if the Red Hot Chili Peppers were chilling at the Manchester Waffle House. Now I just want to listen to By the Way while devouring a Chocolate Chip Pecan Waffle smothered in Peanut Butter and Syrup.
Everyone was talking about this conflict between Parcels, Diplo, and Melanie Martinez. Who are you seeing? Followed by a strong petition from the inquisitor to go with their choice. I was leaning towards Parcels, but after many convincing arguments for Melanie, I ended up seeing her. Her performance was so unique, well-executed, and just awesome. The full-face prosthetic and listening to her live was just ...WOW. After feeling seen by Nymphology, it was time to make moves around the farm. Next was the Silent Disco experience, which I wanted to check off my list this go around after not making it happen the year prior. Highly recommend it to just some silly goofy time and club-dependent classics.
This was then followed by seeing Diplo, and then Pretty Lights for their sunrise sets. They were super enjoyable especially while rocking out with a lamb shawarma. However 4 am rolled around, and Cal was turning into a limp noodle.
My only closest regret, was not seeing Parcels. That show and all the comments post-show looked popping, and reminded me of experiencing Big Wild two previous times. Which everyone needs to see Big Wild, and now I will hunt down another opportunity to see Parcels.
Fred Again.. and Again, and Again, and Again. While I was a skeptic at first, I always kept my heart and mind open to his performance; and was won over. Fred and Tony KILLLLLLLLLLEEEEEDDDDDDDDD. Fantastic job boys, you closed this festival in the best way possible, especially with the mix into we've lost dancing. Beautiful, and now I understand why everyone was telling me all weekend that he was a must-see live, and many people's sacrifices just to see him at Roo were well worth it.
Not listed above, but happened as the unofficial official last act of the night and weekend was Alison Wonderland in Where in the Woods. Again just another bonus to the entire weekend, that makes you extremely grateful for experiencing Roo, as she leaves with some Valerie by Amy Winehouse.
The gyoza was fighting back, so it was time to call it a night. Leaving the GWAR set after like 20 minutes I caught some of the Chris Lake on the way out, (I low-key wish I was able to catch more of his set) and moseyed my way to camp Calypso.
I was majorly turned into a fan of Seven Lions, but with the impending sleep debt needing to be paid, it was time to call it a night. After all, I saw Grouplove everything else was a bonus, and Day 3 was my chosen go-hard day!
I still need confirmation if the Red Hot Chili Peppers were chilling at the Manchester Waffle House. Now I just want to listen to By the Way while devouring a Chocolate Chip Pecan Waffle smothered in Peanut Butter and Syrup.
Everyone was talking about this conflict between Parcels, Diplo, and Melanie Martinez. Who are you seeing? Followed by a strong petition from the inquisitor to go with their choice. I was leaning towards Parcels, but after many convincing arguments for Melanie, I ended up seeing her. Her performance was so unique, well-executed, and just awesome. The full-face prosthetic and listening to her live was just ...WOW. After feeling seen by Nymphology, it was time to make moves around the farm. Next was the Silent Disco experience, which I wanted to check off my list this go around after not making it happen the year prior. Highly recommend it to just some silly goofy time and club-dependent classics.
This was then followed by seeing Diplo, and then Pretty Lights for their sunrise sets. They were super enjoyable especially while rocking out with a lamb shawarma. However 4 am rolled around, and Cal was turning into a limp noodle.
My only closest regret, was not seeing Parcels. That show and all the comments post-show looked popping, and reminded me of experiencing Big Wild two previous times. Which everyone needs to see Big Wild, and now I will hunt down another opportunity to see Parcels.
Fred Again.. and Again, and Again, and Again. While I was a skeptic at first, I always kept my heart and mind open to his performance; and was won over. Fred and Tony KILLLLLLLLLLEEEEEDDDDDDDDD. Fantastic job boys, you closed this festival in the best way possible, especially with the mix into we've lost dancing. Beautiful, and now I understand why everyone was telling me all weekend that he was a must-see live, and many people's sacrifices just to see him at Roo were well worth it.
Not listed above, but happened as the unofficial official last act of the night and weekend was Alison Wonderland in Where in the Woods. Again just another bonus to the entire weekend, that makes you extremely grateful for experiencing Roo, as she leaves with some Valerie by Amy Winehouse.
No activity yet