Friday, June 15, 2007

What is this "Download Festival?"

I'm so confused by this festival, which has had hardly any press. Apparently it's some UK import that's playing in four US cities this summer, including "Chicago" (a.k.a., Alpine Valley) on September 2. The artist links don't work yet, but apparently The Shins, Band of Horses, Wolf Parade, Brand New and Honey Cut (?) are confirmed for the Chicago date. According to the site,

"Download 2007 provides fans an unprecedented opportunity to get up close and personal with their favorite artists. Connectivity between the fans and Download Festival 2007 artists begins with unique moderated artist master class workshops where select Download talent share insight and knowledge about what it takes to become an accomplished artist in an intimate experiential setting that is focused on musical instruments and the song creation process. Bands also extend to the fans a rare look into their lives on the road during free form Q & A sessions. Fans also get a chance to leave with a special souvenir after autograph signings, where fans can select their favorite piece of memorabilia to be signed. The interaction continues with intimate meet and greets throughout the day where fans can take a picture with the bands and have a keepsake of the festival and where digital photos are taken with an event photographer and then posted to an online festival gallery. Text messaging and rich media communications, along with backstage mobile updates, keep fans connected with featured artists throughout the Download 2007 events."

Tickets go on sale on June 23- maybe a larger lineup will be available by then?

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

I can't imagine seeing most of those bands on the large stage at Alpine. I guess I would wait as well for all of the details. And meeting the bands, and autographs, that's only fun when it happens on accident, not when I'm paying for it!