With Chicago’s Riot Fest kicking off in less than three weeks, there’s just enough time to give you the low-down on 2015’s unmissable acts. The rock-heavy festival will take place in Douglas Park from September 11-13, and this year offers an incredible lineup! From album plays to unexpected reunions, Chicago’s Riot Fest is the unmissable event of the summer. Here are five reasons you should make it your mission to attend Riot Fest Chicago this year.
Number Five: Tenacious D.
Everyone knows Jack Black from his acting pursuits back in the day (we’re looking at you, Mr. Schneebly) but his musical efforts are often overlooked. The comedy rock duo Tenacious D has been around since 1994, and they released the iconic single “Tribute” back in 2002. Black and Kyle Gass have released three albums since, continuing their unique and audacious sound for over a decade.
As the self-proclaimed “Greatest Band in the World,” there’s no reason you shouldn’t catch Tenacious D headlining the Rise Stage on Sunday, September 13. If anything, it’ll be a massive throwback to the early 2000s.
Number Four: Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness.
Andrew McMahon began performing under the alias “Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness” in 2014, two years after the disbandment of his former project Jack’s Mannequin. McMahon released some solo work in between, but there’s something incredibly intimate about his latest efforts. The first single released under this moniker—“Cecilia and the Satellite”—is a stunning tribute to his daughter.
It’s a softer, dreamy kind of rock, and something definitely worth giving a shot! If you were a fan of Jack’s Mannequin, you won’t be disappointed by the former front man’s latest sound. Catch Andrew McMahon at the Riot Stage on Sunday, September 13.
Number Three: Snoop Dogg.
Snoop Dogg is one of five artists to be performing an entire album at this year’s Riot Fest. Snoop will be breaking out his debut Doggystyle for the festival’s crowds at the Rock Stage on Sunday, September 13. And honestly, even if rap isn’t really your thing, how could you pass up the chance to watch THE Snoop Doggy Dogg throwback to 1993?!
Number Two: New Politics.
New Politics are one of the most incredible live performers of their genre. The trio—who hail from Copenhagen—have recently released their first major label record, Vikings.
Their sound is one part pop-punk and one part dance-rock, with a heavy dose of electro creeping up every few tracks. It’s their live performances, however, that really set them apart. New Politics are endlessly energetic, combining flawless live music with a few well-timed dance breaks. If this sounds like your thing, they’ll be at the Rise Stage on Sunday, September 13!
Number One: The Academy Is…
The Riot Fest booking crew have really outdone themselves with this one! The festival has catalysed not only the reunion of The Academy Is… at Riot Fest, but another reunion show in Chicago the week before. Although front man William Beckett has stated that the Riot Fest Chicago appearance will serve as a farewell show for the band, we’re incredibly excited to welcome back an alternative-rock giant of the early 2000s, even if it’s only for two nights.
The Academy Is… will also be performing an entire album: their Fueled By Ramen debut Almost Here. The band’s reunion was as unexpected as it is exciting, and we’re thrilled to confirm they’ll be playing the Roots Stage on Saturday, September 12.
Of course, this isn’t all Riot Fest Chicago has to offer. The line-up also features performances from Alkaline Trio, No Doubt, Anthrax, System of a Down, Iggy Pop, The Prodigy, and Modest Mouse to name but a few. We suggest buying your tickets to this year’s Riot Fest sooner rather than later.