Something Like Sound

Alright, it’s time again for me to jump up on my soapbox and tell it like it is. Here’s my rundown of “the largest indie festival in the region” (as per their radio advertisements). Some of this stuff is entirely subjective and personal opinion, other bits deal with actual logistical things.

Good Things

1. The number of bands: There was never really a time when I couldn’t find someone who I wanted to see.
2. Local businesses: Unlike other big festivals, this one took place in the heart of South Broadway, that meant no $10 slices of pizza or $500 beers (which is what you see at most other large festivals)
3. The fans: I’m pretty sure that everybody at the UMS was there to have a good time, I didn’t meet any super-annoying people, and actually got to meet quite a few bands (who were fun people to hang out with).
4. The price: I bought my wristband pre-sale, so I only paid $12 for 4 jam-packed days of fun. Even if you waited to buy a ticket at the door, the money was well worth it.
5. The Denver Post people: Everyone I met from DP was incredibly nice and professional, very classy indeed.

Bad Things

1. Lighting: As someone who had to be his own photographer, this was an issue just about everywhere I went. I remember the sets at The Hornet, Indy Ink, and the outdoor stage (later in the day) were especially, and needlessly dark (which made it incredibly hard to take pictures). Next year, in addition to getting nice sound equipment, spring for a couple of stage lights, it would be a vast improvement.
2. The booklet: I know the Denver Post has to pay the bills on this thing, but placing the sponsor’s names in front of the venue names on the map key made it difficult to read. Furthermore, the list format for the weekend lineup was also a little ambiguous. Lance from The Flat Response made up a flowchart style schedule that was far more useful. Next year, make the booklet similar to the one from the Mile High Music Festival: half the size (so it fits in your pocket), and flowchart the lineup.
3. Learn how to control the weather: I know this isn’t really possible, but I like sunshine more than clouds, and cool more than hot (and I want opposites that are mutually exclusive).

Well, that’s all I can think of off the top of my head. Overall it was quite an enjoyable week, and I anticipate next year will be even better.