Kilby Block Party 2023 Review: A Celebration of Music

The vibrant scene of Kilby came alive on a sunny Friday afternoon as music enthusiasts and art appreciators gathered for the eagerly awaited Kilby Block Party 2023. This annual celebration of creativity and community proved to be a resounding success, surpassing all expectations. Taking over the grounds of the Utah State Fair Park for three days the weather gods blessed us with amazing weather (except a few last minute showers on day three that delayed the headlining set by Pavement).


The air was electric with anticipation as attendees wandered through the lively fairgrounds, immersing themselves in a sensory feast of sights and sounds. The festival organizers had curated an impressive lineup that catered to diverse musical tastes, offering an eclectic mix of genres that kept the crowd energized from start to finish. From hometown boys The Backseat Lovers to legendary Garage rockers The Strokes. From the infectious beats of hip-hop sensations Run The Jewels to the ethereal melodies of indie bands such as The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, every performance shone with raw talent and passion. The stage transformed into a melting pot of sounds, captivating listeners and leaving them hungry for more.


Yet, Kilby Block Party was not just about the music. This incomparable event also showcased the city's thriving art scene, with a kaleidoscope of visual artists proudly displaying their creations throughout the festival grounds. Marvelous murals, imaginative installations, and thought-provoking sculptures provided a visual feast that stimulated the senses and ignited conversations among attendees.


Attendees reveled in the vibrant energy of the festival, connecting with old friends and forging new connections within the Kilby community. Delicious aromas wafted from food trucks, offering an array of mouthwatering culinary delights that satisfied the appetites of hungry attendees. Local artisans and entrepreneurs showcased their wares, adding to the festive ambiance and providing an opportunity to support the local economy.


The curation of the Kilby Block Party 2023 was flawless, with meticulous attention to detail ensuring a seamless experience for all. From the friendly staff to the well-organized layout, every aspect of the festival contributed to its overwhelming success. The organizers created an atmosphere of inclusivity, where everyone felt welcome, making Kilby Block Party a true celebration of the community's diversity and spirit.
As the sun set over the horizon, casting a golden glow on the festivities, the Kilby Block Party 2023 drew to a close. The party-goers dispersed, still buzzing with excitement, their hearts and minds filled with memories of an extraordinary day. Kilby Block Party had once again proven itself as a haven for music lovers, art enthusiasts, and community seekers, leaving a lasting impression that will linger until the next year's highly anticipated edition.

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Lights All Night Is Upon Us!

Lights All Night is the mother of all electronic music festivals, the longest running of its kind in the great state of Texas.

This year’s edition is a neon fueled, dance music paradise boasting a genre-bending Texas sized lineup across four different stages: The Watering Hole, Metroplex, The Lonestar, and Disco Rodeo. From dance music royalty like Porter Robinson and the hotly tipped DJ and producer Gordo (recently produced Drake’s ‘Honestly Nevermind’ album) to astonishing, larger than life art installations, including the debut of Moouis Vuitton, Lights All Night is the place to be to cap off 2022.

We will be in attendance and check back next week for our full review and photo gallery.

Tickets

Ticket Link

Hours

Festivities take place this New Year's Eve Weekend on Thursday, December 29th and Friday, December 30th, with performances beginning in the evening and running all night.

Day 1: Thursday, December 29th

  • Parking lots open at 5:00 PM

  • Box office open at 5:00 PM

  • Gates open at 6:00 PM

  • Event ends at 2:00 AM

Day 2: Friday, December 30th

  • Parking lots open at 5:00 PM

  • Box office open at 5:00 PM

  • Gates open at 6:00 PM

  • Event ends at 2:00 AM

Map

Parking

If you plan to drive, there will be ample parking at the venue.

Parking lots open at 5:00 PM on Thursday and Friday. Parking is $25 plus tax, per day.

NO CASH! Credit and debit cards, and Android and Apple Pay payments are accepted.

Youth on Record joins Two Parts to lead Underground Music Showcase

Under a new joint venture agreement, Youth on Record, a Denver-based nonprofit, has joined Two Parts, a Denver-based entertainment company, to lead the Underground Music Showcase (UMS), the largest, multi-day music festival in Denver. As co-owners, Two Parts and Youth on Record will focus the UMS on Artistic Excellence, Community Impact, and Economic Sustainability, with a commitment to advancing opportunities for historically marginalized artists.

Two Parts Founder Casey Berry and Youth on Record Executive Director Jami Duffy will serve as co-managers of UMS LLC, a new Colorado limited liability company. Berry and Duffy will share oversight of the festival's vision, values, programming, operations, and finances.

"By partnering with an organization with such deep roots and the full faith of the community, we gain the firepower to mobilize the community in new ways," says Berry, who led Two Parts' purchase of the festival from the Denver Post Community Foundation in 2018. "There's so much Two Parts and Youth on Record can do to build on each partner's existing programming and relationships to support artists and build the next generation of performers to carry the torch."

Duffy sees the Two Parts/Youth on Record partnership as a model for how nonprofits and music festivals can co-create just and sustainable sources of support while driving impact.

“Everyone keeps talking about new ways of doing things, post-COVID. For Youth on Record, co-owning and co-leading the UMS is a new approach to fulfilling our mission, earning revenue, and reaching more artists and community members," says Duffy. "The work of the UMS is aligned with our mission, making it not only a smart investment, but one that can have a big impact."

Duffy and Berry are betting on a bold idea that music festivals with a mission will have more staying-power – and ultimately generate more revenue. They hope foundations, philanthropists, Colorado Creative Industries, the Scientific and Cultural Facilities Districts (SCFD), and government agencies will take note of this community-centered approach.

New mission-driven elements include increases in payments to performing artists (starting at $200 per artist and $400 per band) and deeper diversity among performers, sober bars and other resources for artists who struggle with substance misuse, opportunities to support young and emerging creatives, and an Impact Show focused on providing mental health support resources to attendees. Impact Days, a two-day professional development opportunity for UMS performers, will be hosted and produced by Youth on Record. Future plans include a deeper focus on accessibility, internship and workforce pipelines, and outreach to introduce more Denver residents to the UMS.

"Music festivals have the unique power to bring huge groups of people together. Nothing else does this: not concerts, not art exhibitions, not conferences, not plays," says Michael Bracy, a Youth on Record advisor and national music policy expert. "The UMS is an incredible opportunity to reach, activate, connect with, and serve a large number of people, which is central to Youth on Record's strategy for innovation and change."

This year's UMS will take place from Friday, July 29 to Sunday, July 31, drawing more than 10,000 music fans to Broadway/Baker neighborhoods. With performances by hundreds of bands composed of more than 600 artists, the festival will be true to its roots while integrating new energy and new community programs, says Berry.

"Attendees can expect the same spirit of discovery, community, creativity, and fun that has defined the UMS for two decades," he says. "The mile-long strip of South Broadway will once again transform into a bustling community gathering space for artists, creators, musicians, and fans who can look forward to everything they love about the UMS – and more."

The Two Parts/Youth on Record partnership began to take shape last August. Spurred by a $1M grant from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott in June 2021, Duffy approached Berry to propose that Youth on Record come in as an owner of the UMS; the nonprofit served as the festival's charitable beneficiary for many years.

"We had the idea that if you center impact and introduce philanthropy to a music festival, you can create something really powerful," says Duffy, who brought the idea of buying into the UMS to the Youth on Record board soon after meeting Berry. "The pandemic made it clear that bold moves are necessary to drive change in our world. Youth on Record has always had a spirit of innovation and taking risks, so we were up for the challenge.”

Unlike most traditional music festivals, which measure success by financial performance alone (which struggle to make it, and often don't), the UMS will measure along a triple-impact bottom line of Artistic Excellence, Community Impact, and Economic Sustainability. Duffy and Berry intend to raise $200,000 from donations, foundation grants, and other philanthropic sources to cover increases in programming expenses not covered by ticket sales, corporate sponsorships, merchandise, and concessions.

“Youth on Record staff, board members, and volunteers used to sling beer at the festival; now the organization is a co-owner, which gives us a real seat at the table,” says Duffy, noting that the venture was unanimously approved by Youth on Record's Board of Directors. “It’s a risk, like any business opportunity. But it’s one worth taking.”

“With our powers combined, Two Parts and Youth on Record are excited to push the festival into new, interesting, and community-focused directions,” says Berry. “UMS has always been Denver’s festival, and we can’t wait to continue building it for our city.”

The UMS was founded by Denver Post journalists John Moore and Ricardo Baca in 2001.

Tickets to the UMS are on sale now. A portion of all sales will benefit Youth on Record.

For more information, visit Youth on Record's website.

Underground Music Showcase Announces Schedule and Outdoor Stages

19_UMS_logo-stacked-date.jpg

Denver's largest and most iconic music festival, the Underground Music Showcase, has announced its complete 2019 schedule. From July 26 - 28, this mile-long festival on Broadway will feature 350+ live shows from local bands and national acts like Honne, Chicano Batman, Black Mountain, Tuxedo, Earthgang and many more.


The music festival will feature three creatively custom outdoor stages: Showcase Stage @ Goodwill, Odyssey Stage @ Import Mechanics, and new to this year’s showcase, Knockout Stage @ Punch Bowl Social. Additional stages include 15+ indoor music venues along South Broadway. Festival-goers can expect a three-day weekend packed with live music, craft beer, cocktails and wine, food, surprise pop-ups and more.


The festival will kick off with Wildermiss on the largest stage, Showcase Stage, @ 3:20 p.m. on Friday, July 26 and close out with Tuxedo @ 8:15 p.m. on Sunday, July 28. The full stage and venue schedule can be viewed at https://www.undergroundmusicshowcase.com/schedule.


Festival-goers are encouraged to purchase weekend passes for $50 now before prices increase to $75 beginning soon. Single-day passes also now on sale for $40. Groups looking to save additional money can purchase a weekend pass four-pack for $140. Weekend tickets include general admission access to any show, any stage, all weekend long. To purchase tickets, visit undergroundmusicshowcase.com.


Ten "Must See" Acts At This Year's Westword Music Showcase

Westword Music Showcase crowd going crazy for Galantis last year. (Photo Credit: Aly McClaran)

Westword Music Showcase crowd going crazy for Galantis last year. (Photo Credit: Aly McClaran)

This year the Westword Music Showcase is celebrating 25 years, an amazing accomplishment. Luckily we have been able to cover this festival for about half of that time. Each year while our staff is narrowing down their schedules we come across a few acts that you must see. Bands that have caught our attention and doing amazing things in the local and national scene. (In no particular order). If you haven’t purchased your tickets today is the last day before they go up in price. Use code: ULTRA5280 for your discounts.

Bailey Elora | 2:30-3:05 | 100% De Agave

Bailey is starting to put her stamp on the Denver music scene with a breakout year in 2019 so far. The singer-songwriter will touch your heart and evoke all the feels of a live performance. Look for her to be a household name in the up-coming year.


Adiel Mitchell | 2:30-3:05 | #VYBE Stage

2019 has been an amazing year for Adiel Mitchell and he is just getting started. With a slew of festivals on the horizon Mitchell brings his own unique sound to the masses. Evoking the persona of Bruno Mars while maintaining the cool of Khalid, Mitchell is set to breakout into one of Denver’s most versatile performers.


Corsicana | 4:10-4:45 | The Church

One of our favorite bands we have been listening to this year is Corsicana. The band is riding the wave of their recently released album and has our stamp of approval. Lead by lead singer Ben Pisano, the band pulls you into a world that evokes the feels of the song truly making a connection with the masterful songwriting.


Yasi | 12:25-12:55 | Breckenridge Brewery Main Stage

Ahhh fresh off the cover of this week’s Westword Magazine, YaSi has been having herself quite a year. The sultry singer has been traveling the country playing gigs in New York, Chicago, and Houston and returns to get things started off on the Breck Brew Main Stage. Her current single “Issues” has been on repeat for us and is sure to conjure up mutual feelings between her and her audience.


CITRA | 7:30-8:05 | The Church

While those of you who prefer your drinks stiff, make sure to catch CITRA headlining The Church. The rock band has become the staple band in the Denver rock scene the last few years and brings one of the better live sets of any band. Make sure you have your Jack & Coke ready!


SHAED | 1:20-1:55 | Breckenridge Brewery Main Stage

Electro-pop darlings SHAED is ready to shine on the main stage. Hailing from our nations capital the band is led by singer Chelsea Lee and rounded out by siblings Spencer and Max Ernst. If you are fans of Bishop Briggs or Marian Hill, you will enjoy their mid-day set at Westword.


The Hollow | 6:40-7:15 | The Church

What can we say about The Hollow? A band that has come into its own the latter part of the last few years along with CITRA has been hailed as one of the best rock acts to grace the Mile High. If you like your music hard, fast, and raw, The Hollow is for you. P.S……Bring your ear plugs.


Optycnerd | 1:40-2:15 | The Church

Optynerd is set to take their act on the road next month but before they do make sure you check out the duo of Chris Kimmel and Chris Scott. Their music just makes you want to dance, even though if you don’t know how. Catchy beats and feel good lyrics makes this band a must see. Come cool off from the treacherous heat indoors for a wild set.


Plastic Daggers | 5:00-5:35 | Bar Standard

We had a chance to see these guys not long ago at Lost Lake and our ears are still ringing. Plastic Daggers consists of Keaton Kidder and Jordan Palmer. The duo has been making music for the last few years cementing themselves as one of the better live acts in our city. Three things, it’s going to be loud, it’s going to raw, and just like your favorite beer.. it’s going to be unfiltered. Get some!!!


CHVRCHES | 7:20-8:35 | White Claw Stage

I mean it CHVRCHES…..

Must See DJ’s

Hexkitten

Polyphoni

Erin Stereo

DJ Bedz

Always gotta give love to our city’s best DJ’s who week in and week out provide us the soundtracks to our weekend shenanigans.

Bumbershoot Day Lineups Announced

Seattle's Music and Arts Festival, has announced the 2019 day-by-day lineup. Taking place over Labor Day weekend, Friday Aug. 30 through Sunday Sept. 1, the 49th annual Bumbershoot will feature an eclectic list of performers including headliners Tyler, the Creator, The Lumineers, REZZ, Louis The Child, among others. Weekend passes are currently on sale. Single day passes starting at $99 and two day passes starting at $165 are also on sale now for a limited time at Bumbershoot.com.


More than 100 artists will perform throughout the weekend on more than a dozen indoor and outdoor stages spread throughout the 74-acre festival grounds, which includes both Memorial Stadium and Museum Of Pop Culture. Days for Comedy and Conversation performers and programming have also been released.

DAY-BY-DAY SCHEDULE - 2019

Friday

Music

Tyler, The Creator, *****, Hippie Sabotage, Alina Baraz, Snow Tha Product, SOB xX RBE, Bryce Vine, SOL, Flora Cash, Madison Beer, The Dip, Shaed, Morgxn, Y La Bamba, Evan Konrad, Jagwar Twin, School of Rock Seattle, Tourist Company, Art D’Ecco, Laza

Comedy & Conversation

Ramy Youssef, Punch Up The Jam, Ian Karmel, #Adulting with Michelle Buteau and Jordan Carlos, Quinta Brunson, Shane Mauss, Dulcé Sloan, Irene Tu, Emma Arnold, Mohanad Elshieky, Scott Losse, Evelyn Jensen, Levi Manis

Saturday

Music

The Lumineers, H.E.R., Jai Wolf, LP, Carly Rae Jepsen, Summer Walker, Rival Sons, A R I Z O N A, Alec Benjamin, Coin, Matt Maeson, Two Feet, Donna Missal, half*alive, Alex Lahey, Jasiah, The Blue Stones, Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Alex Cade, I///U, Baja Boy, USC Event’s Silent Disco @ Chihuly Garden and Glass feat. Hex Cougar, Lowsh vs. Farraday, Web vs. Coltan Johnson, Hherb vs Vitamin B, DJ Onyxx vs. Night Audit

Comedy & Conversation

Neal Brennan, Ramy Youssef, Ian Karmel, Jak Knight, Zack Fox, Quinta Brunson, Stand Up Science with, Shane Mauss, Jo Firestone, Dulcé Sloan, Irene Tu, Emma Arnold, Mohanad Elshieky, Scott Losse, Evelyn Jensen, Levi Manis

Sunday

Music

REZZ, Louis The Child, Taking Back Sunday, Clairo, Bob Moses, Reignwolf, Gallant, Bea Miller, The Midnight, Kiana Ledé, Pink Sweat$, The Aces, nothing,nowhere., Manatee Commune, Kolars, Ryland James, DJ Scheme, Emily Rowed, Fuzz Mutt, Tracksuit Wedding, L.A. Edwards

Comedy & Conversation

Ramy Youssef, Ian Karmel, Jak Knight, Zack Fox, Jo Firestone, Dulcé Sloan, Fahim Anwar Dance Hour, Irene Tu, Emma Arnold, Mohanad Elshieky, Scott Losse, Evelyn Jensen, Levi Manis

Everyday

Arts & Culture

Totally Legit, Seattle Design Nerds, Urban Artworks, Tariqa Waters presents Martyr Sauce, Electric Sky, Trivia Puppet Company, Drag Queens of Seattle with Arson Nikki, Butylene O’Kipple, Cookie Couture, Solana Solstice, Mercury Divine & Britt Brutality, Laser Dome presented by Pacific Science Center, Hair Flip Comix Newspaper, Kelly O, Alchemy Arts Collective, Design In Public, Eric Nyffeler, Yogashoot presented by CorePower, Sarah Lovett, Polite Society, Art/Not Terminal Collective, SIFF

Culinary

B-Eats: Musang, Wood Shop BBQ, Gracia, Bok A Bok Fried Chicken, Southpaw Pizza, Matt’s In The Market, Radiator Whiskey, Frankie & Jo’s, Adana, The White Swan Public, House, Manolin, Bar Harbor, Sawyer