The first day on the beach was smooth.
Of course, the infamous hangout security had to give most of us a thorough bother at the entrance to kick things off, but that’s to be expected, and truthfully not a terrible thing… The first thing noted while taking in this year’s festival, as well as chatting with staff, artists, and fans, is that everything is going to plan so far. Knock on wood. All artists started on time, most lines were manageable, and there was no severe weather or heat.
The first artist of the day we saw was Stephen Sanchez, opening the Surf Stage. His stage presence seemed somewhat contained at first, but upon a closer evaluation, Sanchez keeps a real, pent up energy close to his heart. The earnest passion shows itself through variations of whispers like “wow, oh my goodness this is crazy” into the mic. His freshness to his quickly growing following showed through in his awe of the festival, the crowd, and the entire experience. I even bumped into him walking past the Boom Stage right in the middle of the crowd. While his music isn’t the type to leave an audience in shock, his performance was strong and I hope he grows to embody his strengths and push his boundaries.
Two Feet was the first act the BLANK team caught at the Boom Stage. None of us were familiar with the music, but the trio managed to surprise all of us. Their music is a unique fusion of electronic and rock, with a touch of emo. Frontman Bill Dess is capable of shredding a guitar solo and does so often. The Power of the Boom Stage’s bass enhanced the synthesizers and drum machines, and honest lyrics and rockstar level licks had fans totally engaged. Featuring fresh music at a festival that’s typically associated with mainstream acts is especially compelling for Hangouts case as a premier American festival.
Speaking of good bookings, Thundercat packed the Mermaid stage behind The Hangout restaurant to a maximum I personally have never seen before. The courtyard spilled humanity out into every surrounding crevasse, with attendees standing on benches, stairs and light posts around the edges to get a view. That type of fan attention can become consistent for a musician of Thundercat’s caliber. Arguably one of the best bass players touring today, his awesome technical ability locked everyone into the music, as was apparent on all our faces.
At only 23 years old, and having just risen to popularity in 2019, Jordana has a certain nostalgia and air of experience that’s rare, but well received. A high energy, 90’s-drenched indie-rocker, she brought a refreshing and tasteful sound to the Mermaid Stage in a way that made listeners connect in the same way that an old friend would. Jordana’s set built in intensity, while becoming more comfortable, with funny remarks. She even hoisted a Gumby doll up to the sky at one point, lightening her heavy lyrics.
One of the Rock n’ Roll legends of a generation, The Red Hot Chili Peppers played a 90-minute set almost completely made up of chart topping hits.
Filled with energy, personality and amazing talent, it’s hard to ask for more in a night one headliner.
The performance had extra appeal because it included guitarist John Frusciante, who rejoined the band in 2019. They are yet another example of incredible musicianship, and of consistency – which is why there were more attendees with gray hair in the crowd than any Hangout set I can personally remember.
The atmosphere of the day was pleasantly relaxed. There was a sense of comradery amongst the attendees that can only be cultivated by being in the sunshine on the beach, which I only anticipate will grow over the course of the weekend. I interacted with significantly more of the staff and artists than in previous years, and they were impressively calm and at ease for day one. Of course there were gripes and several improvements to be made, but a festival is sort of a microcosm of life and culture, and life sure isn’t perfect either.
SZA headlines The Hangout Stage tonight (Saturday), with a day full of diverse and anticipated performances.
