Outside Lands is an enormous, well-programmed, well-managed event in Golden Gate Park.  Although 2011 was our only trip there, it was a memorable one…

SUSTAINABILITY:

SFers expect a green festival, and I think they got one.  Clean Vibes Founder Anna B. executes effectively down to the details, and City/County of San Francisco’s support/partnership with Clean Vibes’ recycling and composting effort is key.  San Fran is working towards a goal of ZERO WASTE by 2020.  I’d like to see the festival’s success in sustainability positively influence – and provide guidance – for the city’s initiative.

MUSIC:

My highlights by day were:

> FRIDAY: Phish & the Meters

> SATURDAY:  Black Keys & the Roots

> SUNDAY:  Little Dragon & Chicago’s very own… Mavis Staples

Other memorable moments:

Charles Bradley – the most earnest and huggable man; I just love his soul (and his jumpsuit).

Tune-Yards – Merrill is a one-woman army, but sounds great with live horns & bass accompaniment.

Junip – Gotta love Jose Gonzalez and the other awesome musicians.  Hard to make those intricate songs connect far & wide, but I think they made it happen.

Beirut – Loved what I heard, need to see them again.  It’s like a world trip in a tune, with sounds of gypsy, Spanish, mariachi, middle eastern, balkan, klezmer.. all in their first song.

Artic Monkeys rock.

Warren Haynes is peaking right now!

Major Lazer are a fucking TRIP!

OUTSIDE LANDS IN PICTURES: