That’s so VERTEX
Years ago I was dating a guy who literally tossed me into the EDM circuit. I became enveloped in the people, the dancing, the events and even the process of creating music (with lots help, of course). After a good stint of exploring the circuit and the relationship coming to a close, I rarely took further intentional action in participating.
Five years later, that changed. And so had the scene. Or should I say industry?
Two days ago I spent over 72 hours with a random group of people and my boo in a somewhat surreal environment; earlier this summer Corey and I decided to attend VERTEX in Buena Vista, CO. A newer festival with an odd–though very pleasurable–assortment of artists and… experiences. The setup was impressive; minimal but effective. Surrounded by mountains and little else, the connection to nature was palpable (until the trash happened 😕). Given what I’ve witnessed elsewhere, you could say it was somewhat “barebones” in production value. Although this may have been one of the more conscious festivals I’ve been to when it comes to moderation-in-practice, it still screamed big profit. Why?
It all starts with the price of a ticket.
With 60% increase in ticket prices from the glory days of Woodstock, the words,
Unfortunately, attending a festival is just as contingent upon your current financial situation as your love of music. — Kelsey Clark
are too close to the truth.
Regardless, we have to recognize Festivals exist as a small–yet fast growing–part of a much larger system. And that system still supports the artists we know and love. And honestly, VERTEX did a pretty damn good job of doing it as best you can. I definitely didn’t feel cheated out of $$$. So, let’s let bygones be bygones and move forward for a review of not just VERTEX, but the many artists who captured my ❤️ (and who I hope capture yours too).
For three days and nights we camped with some of the most curious, un-expecting and… humorous(?) individuals I’ve experienced. A couple from Durango who would never have met had their ex’s not brought them to Colorado. A group of nomads touring the festival scene, including a full-sized and fully-functional trampoline. (This is no joke… how else do you get this kind of angle?)
And of course there were the college cliques, the three amigos, the complainer and the overconfident jumper who almost lost his head on the tramp (the story of which I heard approximately 20–slightly different–times). Camping was–to say-the-least–muy interesante.
Still, the “coupled-by-exes” were pretty damn cool people and the three amigos taught me hacky sack. I still don’t know what “D” or “K” is, nor do I really care to. The music though? The music made everything worth it.
Before registering for VERTEX, I only knew or had eared approximately 25% of the lineup. For the next few months Corey & I made a light effort to listen to what artists we could before attending (something I definitely recommend). Live music is almost always unrivaled by recorded. Few times, however, is live music as perfect as recorded music. Watching music being produced in the moment and getting to hear the product immediately is already immensely satisfying…almost uncanny in the pleasure it delivers. Live music being performed perfectly, however? Now that’s something to witness. If there was a factor that connected the artists at VERTEX more than anything, it was in their individual and collective dedication to their craft–not their product.
Each performance–no matter the genre–was captivating in its own way. What took me by surprise was realizing that my captivation was not only due to the artists on stage, but the audience members and the way they each participated. Was there some head-banging and what I like to call “dub-lunging”? Sure. But it was appropriate and nor was it constant. With such a variety of acts, it was pretty difficult to ever feel overwhelmed by any of the music (I said difficult, not impossible 😅). What was always present, however, was respect. For each other. For the music. For life (however you define that). The energy was like a palpable “cherry-on-top.” I felt comfortable and welcome. I felt safe. I belonged. It was a little gross here and there, but I guess that’s camping with 7,000 other people who don’t really give a f*ck about what you think about them. But they will give a f*ck about you if you let them. It was elating.
I’m not going to tell you whether to go to one of these things,–even VERTEX–or not. I’m not sure even if or when I will attend again either. But I’m glad I did. I love who I went with, and who I met, and who I saw. An un-tradable experience. So instead of recommending you buy a ticket, I’d like to recommend a few of my favorites from the weekend who might become favorites of yours too.
Again, everyone was pretty amazing or seriously took me by surprise. Some even elicited so much nostalgia that euphoria was eminent. But there were a few that stood out–in order of appearance–and that I’d like to use in dishing soup for your ears & soul on this day of hump. We hope you enjoy and keep loving (equally 😉).
P.S. I was reminded this weekend that we as experiencers/ viewers/ witnessers/ consumers of art are 50% of every creative equation. This is a conversation…a mutually beneficial experience. Without them we have nothing to devour and without us they nothing to feed; a cycle as ancient as the universe. Every time you witness someone else’s creation, feel encouraged to respond and moved to respect. To grow from each other we must be vulnerable and kind. When you start there, anything is possible. If VERTEX was about anything, I think it was just that. I definitely saw some 💜 left on both sides of the stage.
A few comments here:
- We saw these two literally everywhere. In town, sitting next to us at a stage… you name it, they were there.
- They are both also very talented visual artists as was evident by their almost-full sketchbooks. Why are people so talented… 🙄
- A generally up-beat demeanor and I loved the subtleness of their voices. It really let their talent as instrumental musicians shine. It also aided in really buttery harmonies and mix of tone between the two artists.
- I particularly loved Swim in the Water. I tried to sing along to the whole thing but failed miserably.
Such a surprise.
I think Emancipator Ensemble surprised me most of all. Perhaps my expectations were diminished because of my prior listening experiences. It’s fantastically chill music. With a particular emphasis on violin and trance-like beats, it’s hard not to let the sound carry you. And the rare vocals are luring and seductive, if not a bit eery at times. I’ve been using it for working music or cleaning music on the regular; highly productive, I must say. Therefore, I was expecting a similar, relaxing experience in person. Instead? Pure energy and infatuation. In the article quoted above Doug Appling says about his inspiration,
…nature definitely spurs my imagination all the time in music. A song to me is something that can take you to another place in your mind than where you are physically. Most of the time, it’s a beautiful, organic place I’m imagining, and that kind of inspires the sounds I’m choosing.
That was imminently apparent by their performance. If I remember correctly, Corey even said something like, “It’s so cool being out here. I feel reconnected to nature” during the performance.
Needless to say it’s worth a listen. And if you get the chance to see them live, do it. I’ve heard mixed reviews elsewhere (and from Corey), but they were particularly fantastic here. Perhaps they were just in their element… who knows 😅
Anyways, here’s a fave:
You already know how this is going to go.
Loved them. Love, love, love. So good on record, incredible live. A little funk, a little rock, a jazz and a little soul. Sultry piano and lively brass; plus her voice…it’s both raw and divine, sometimes Corinne Bailey Ray in nature. And her ability to create this almost piercing agony when necessary is stunning and eerily seductive. The combination is tangibly delicious. These are not just artists, but experts. Crafted to perfection, they have a sound I cannot imagine is replicable. Only them, only then. That is talent my friends.
There’s also particular mood for the Shakes, I believe. And I love them for it *smiles*
If you want to feel, you must listen.
What just happened?
I was literally floored by Jai Wolf. I knew little of his story (born in Bangladesh and raised in NYC) or music going into VERTEX. What a mistake because my mind. was. blown. I love watching the genre of EDM evolve into something more than “drops” and “beats.” Jai Wolf could work the crowd without either and for that I bow to him. The transitions, the production value, a clear message transpiring in all his music that your ears simply want, and an energy I was not expecting; Jai Wolf is an homage to the idea that there is potential anywhere, and some people just want to make something stable you keep as a part of your life–whatever that may be. His creations are just that.
The fact that I received that all from a 50 minute set? Genius. It will be fun to watch him grow as an artist, so I’d keep an eye on this guy.
Oh, and an ear 😉
Down by the river.
I was not an avid consumer of GRAMATIK prior to VERTEX, but he’s slowly becoming a work-time favorite and was fantastic live. There’s a unique jazziness to his sound that I deeply appreciate and respect; it’s almost-formulaic nature makes listening for hours easy. And with the incorporation of certain jazz instrumentals, you still get that level of serendipity that makes the genre so juicy. There’s also some funk in there, and though not always mentioned, one of my favorite genre-elements of his tunes. The collision of these influences with electro is deeply satisfying and a little hard to stop listening to.
I’ll admit we weren’t at stage for the set, but listening to GRAMATIK fill the air with a combination of chill and lively beats as we watched the river was more than rewarding to the senses. I hate using the term “background music,” but he’s a perfect sound beneath conversation and cocktails. Let’s just say your house-warming would get many points in my book for GRAMATIK-ing the room a little.
You could even say I’d “jive with it” 😜
Thanks for the tip.
Although they began in 2007, neither of us had heart The Revivalists before. “Coupled-by-exes” actually made the recommendation to take a listen. Though folk-rock is not my favorite genre, I was pleasantly surprised by their performance. They responded well to the crowd and there was definite differentiation in their recorded music–which I’ve been listening to since–from the live experience, something when executed well is always a joy.
I don’t have much more to say here other than if you’re into folk-rock, you should definitely check them out. There’s a nice uniqueness to the lead singer David Shaw’s voice, almost raspy and achey with significant power at the higher ranges of his vocal spectrum. Impressive and I’ll definitely be following to see what happens with them 👍
Now for a little sample:
No words.
Seriously, they were amazing. Such a pleasure. Their music…it almost calls for you, and it can definitely speak for itself. Listen for the intriguing juxtaposition of their lyrics and the essence of the beat and instrumentals. Their words and vocals almost desperate in nature…seeking something, wandering. Yet all the while, the instrumentals embed you with a certain energy that moves you forward, encourages you. Just like in life–regardless of the internal chaos going on–there is always hope and energy in the presence and passing of time.
I just hope you enjoy as much as I did, and continue to 😁
Glow me.
Somewhat likely you’ve heard of him. If you love to dance (especially house) or ever need a purely uplifting resonance, Duke Dumont is the perfect solution. Especially covered in glow sticks. We kept our distance from the stage to give plenty of room for dancing. Lots of dancing. Like a fool, probably. There are so many lovely elements of his music–vocal and instrumental–and the frequent tropical nature of his house is intoxicating. I literally cannot not dance to this guy. Bring on the runway, I say!
Oh… also I’d recommend you be prepared to move during this one:
Oh, well now that’s pretty cool.
Sometimes purity is perfection. Lettuce, my friends, is some pure-ass funk and you should be grateful. Artistry is written all over this group of incredibly talented and passionate musicians. It’s evident in every note they live for the performance and for the joy they bring the crowd. I’ve not been invested in a funk band in a while, but there are a few here I’ve got on repeat — especially some of their pure instrumentals. Whether the brass section, the strings or the diversity of vocal talent, you cannot argue that a certain level of skill mixed with the perfect amount of creative liberty transmutes the sound into one of pure elation. And that’s what I can’t help but feel every time I listen.
Now it’s your turn to get elated 🙃
Yes, they were great.
This should probably be the most obvious of them all. Odesza has made quite a name for themselves recently and is quite deserved. Practiced professionals, their set was anything but boring. Did it amaze me? Not quite, but perhaps that’s because the bar was already set so high. I heard from a few enthusiasts that they’ve heard better sets, but I still thoroughly enjoyed. If you’ve not heard of Odesza, it’s time to catch up. They’re becoming a staple, and it’s musicians like these who influence the trajectory of the genre. I’d definitely keep paying attention.
I don’t think you’re ears will mind ☺️
Kewl.
Two things:
- They’re known as a “Future Soul Band.” #yesplease
- They’re from Melbourne. #yasssplease
A funky, hip-hop inspired beat accompanied by soulful vocals and yearning lyrics makes for a great combination, apparently. About a month prior to VERTEXT we were laying by the pool catching up on VERTEX music and Hiatus Kaiyote (I mean that name…) rolled up on the playlist. Within 30 seconds Corey and I looked at each other and retorted, “Ummm, I like! Who is this??”
If you’ve been craving some deep-yet-easy listening with steady progressions, you’re in for a treat. And when those hip-hop production elements make their way in, embrace the yummy backbeat and melody genre-fusion. I mean, what other neo-soul, hip-hop, progressive band do you know of? (If you have suggestions, let us know via facebook).
Oh yeah, the music 😬
All the smiles.
Some music does something deep inside you to a point at which you can no longer prevent the act of intense grinning. Colorado-based Trout Steak Revival’s latest production Brighter Every Day does just that. And so did their performance at VERTEX. Corey had been excited to introduce me for quite some time, especially due to the instrumental make-up, something they’ve obviously made very intentional decisions about as a group.
There’s something beautiful about bluegrass music. It has a magical quality live that few genres can replicate. This deep-rooted American form of music is full of soul, down to the strings. If you open yourself up to it, it has the power to change your life (and easily, your mood). Only having a few years of interest in this particular kind of music, listening to a clan so classical and progressive in nature definitely pushed my understanding of how expansive it truly is. This is one of those listens and discoveries I’m very grateful for. I think they will gradually become an important part of my ear-pertoire.
Enjoy 😍
I can dig it.
I’m sharing this because I’m not sure how I feel about it yet. I think I really like it, but I can’t listen to it forever. There are a few tracks from his set I dug. I can appreciate it, and it’s fun. I will say people were obsessed with Trey. I’m still trying to figure this out, so obviously my Trey-ducation is out-of-date. The man does own trey.com…I’ll work on it, promise. In the meantime feel free to educate us on facebook via Messenger, or simply take a listen. I know I will.
A special relationship.
Okay, so I have a special relationship with certain sub-genres of EDM. House, I love. Some Trance and Dub I struggle and some I really like. Seven Lions is an interesting combination of Trance, Dub and… Pop? There’s a certain production quality to it that lends itself to the Billboard, yet just when you think you know what he’s going to do, he changes it up. This was fun. Until I recognized the pattern and struggled to stay as interested. I’ll take it for what it is and keep Seven on my radar. He has a good philosophy about his work and I look forward to watching him grow and change as well. I would recommend you do the same.
Before you buy, though, always try 😏
Reminders
A couple things to re-cap and remind you of:
- You are always as important as what you consume, so do it intentionally and with respect for the other 50% of the creative equation.
- We apply the same philosophy to music as we do books; don’t judge it by it’s cover/ first-listen. Music takes effort, time, vulnerability and passion to create. Respect the process and you might be surprised at how your perception of the product changes.
- Festivals are a lot of fun. They are great ways to meet new and different people, experience new music, and test your patience. I just ask (and am learning myself) that you be aware of the impact on the local community, yourself, and the planet we share with so many other beings as our collective home.
- Respect what you like, and listen to it. It will become a part of you.
- You can listen to a fuller playlist from this VERTEX Cover on The Pulp. Click here to access it on Spotify. Or you can use the embedded player below 😚
Live with intention. Love equally. Risk always. Life is too short to do otherwise.
w/ ❤ Samuelcostie