In its 17th year, the Noise Pop Festival is even more fierce than previous years. The festival, which runs Feb. 24 to March 1, 2009 in venues throughout San Francisco, brings together some of the best local artists with an incredibly impressive lineup of indie acts from out of town.
There are simply too many great shows to mention, and some of them are already sold out unless you buy a full festival badge. But here’s a small sample of some of the highlights.
Kicking things off Tuesday night is what promises to be a highlight of the festival, with Deerhunter and Lilofee at The Mezzanine. This show (get there early, folks — this one is free with RSVP) begins at 10pm and showcases one of the biggest buzz bands in the indie world. Their latest album Microcastle received rave reviews as a break-out album for this previously under-appreciated ambient rock group. Combined with local electro-pop band Lilofee, this show should kick-start the festival with a bang. If you’re looking for a more mellow festival appetizer, Antony and the Johnsons will play at 8pm at the Nob Hill Masonic Center.
Wednesday, let the games begin. The first full night of shows is packed with music with a John Darnielle solo set at Swedish American already sold out. However, one of the most exciting shows of the night, Stephen Malkmus (most widely known for his work with Pavement, but now performing with The Jicks) will perform a solo set at the Great American Music Hall at 8pm. The Jicks’ latest album, Real Emotional Trash, was released in March of last year to mixed reviews. Malkmus occasionally slips into old shoes and performs Pavement material at shows, but one can only guess about this show. Kelley Stoltz, Peggy Honeywell, and Goh Nakamura will open for this legendary indie rocker.
Sold-out shows continue into Thursday with Josh Ritter performing solo with a string quartet at the Great American at 8pm. It’s clear why concertgoers would immediately see the value in this show — Ritter’s tender folk rock will surely be breathtaking backed by a string quartet. And with Laura Gibson, Dave Smallen and Tiny Television opening, it promises to be a night of amazing up-and-comers. Ritter released a self-titled record in April of last year that consists of 12 songs he wrote in college. He will continue to tour nationwide through Spring. Two great local bands will also headline other venues that night — Thee Oh Sees and From Monument to Masses. As for all sold-out shows, hope is not lost! You can gain access to these shows by purchasing the ever popular Noise Pop Festival Badge which will grant entry into all shows during the festival.
