To say that 2011 was one of the more surprising years in music would be an understatement. The following is a list of the Top 10 acts I would love to see in Chattanooga. Some bills are paired up with local acts I think would be a perfect match. I based my choices on what people have been talking about on social media and artists I believe will make a splash in 2012.
Kendrick Lamar and A$AP Rocky with Sparkz
Kendrick Lamar is an up-and-coming hip-hop artist who claims he is “The voice of generation Y.” His new album, “Section.80,” has received critical acclaim from such artists as Pitchfork to XXL for his positive lyrics and social messages. His lyrics are deep with messages that most rappers these days wouldn’t dare touch. Both A$AP and Kendrick are on tour with Drake.Paired with the lyrical genius Sparkz, this show would be fun to watch.
M83, Washed Out, Machines Are People Too
Another band that has received critical acclaim this year has been M83. The new album “Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming” has been in heavy rotation and most of my friends on Spotify are constantly listening to it. Most reviews from their performance at Moogfest have been stellar.
Washed Out has also had a fantastic year. If you remember their stop at 412 Market a couple of years ago, then you already know that frontman Ernest Greene’s talents as have grown tremendously with the release of, “Within and Without.”
Pair this with local favorite rowdy pop band Machines Are People Too and you have a guaranteed sold out show!
St. Vincent and The Alexanders
I recently saw St. Vincent at Moogfest and instantly became a huge fan. She combines skillful guitar playing with the latest technology to create electronic music that rocks.
Having toured with the likes of Sfujan Stevens and The Polyphonic Spree, St. Vincent has the experience to create a unique blend of rock Her newest album, “Strange Mercy,” has made it onto many year ends lists, including Rolling Stone and Spinner. Pairing her with Alex Thompson’s new experiment with folk rock and vocals would prove to be an interesting show.
Skrillex and #423BASS
Let’s have a moment of truth. The electronic scene in Chattanooga is in a drastically different state than it was in 2010 when you’d see 1,000-plus people filling up venues.
No big names in electronic music have come through town since then. Love him or hate him, Skrillex is the ambassador of dubstep and electronic music in the United States. He doesn’t play what you’d expect of him at a live show. Ask a lot of the local bands who played at Dexfest 2011 and they’ll back me up. I could imagine seeing people come out in droves for this rowdy party waiting to happen.
The Black Keys and Prophets and Kings
Let’s be real. Everyone in Chattanooga wants to see this happen. We all love The Black Keys. The end.
Empire of The Sun and Hearts in Light
Visually and musically thrilling. Enough said. Make it happen.
Bon Iver and James Blake
Two incredible artists that make music in different genres yet still intersect. James Blake has soul, Bon Iver brings the chills.