In the heart of the Heartland, two of Americas most bustling thoroughfares intersect on a nice little city called Des Moines. I-80 and I-35 usually take me away from home on some boy-hood adventure to the edge of the ocean or the top of a mountain. But on the first weekend of July, it brought me in, closer to the growing community of passionate artists, musicians and fans that is being cultivated in an ever growing Des Moines life.
One culmination of this emerging scene is the 80/35 Music Festival held every year thanks to the Des Moines Music Coalition. Like every grass roots organization, DMMC is spear headed by countless volunteers who come together to host a number of events each year. Without this great group of people, going above and beyond, events like this wouldn’t happen. And, as you can see, they really did go above and beyond this year.
Most people wouldn’t expect well known acts like Spoon or Modest Mouse to be spending their 4th of July weekend in a place like Des Moines. But come they did, along with thousands of fans eager to catch headliners and up-and-coming bands alike.
First on the list of acts I caught was Solid Gold. Hailing from Minneapolis, they are kind of local, and very talented.
Next was the indie staple, Yo La Tengo. Playing music for “longer then some of you have been alive”, the passion and artistry really shows.
Then, a quick trek over to one of the many side stages for Flatform. This Des Moines DJ duo hosts so of the best dance parties in town. Not to mention great multimedia installations and outstanding design work.
Holly Golightly & The Brokeoffs was a great accompaniment to the sunset over Des Moines.
Finally the day rounded out with a great set bySpoon, you may have heard of them on The OC or Stranger then Fiction. Or my personal favorite, Jason Dill’s part in Habitat’s Mosaic skate video.
A hot, muggy day full of good music. To check out the rest of the bands from Day One head over to 80-35.com and check out the Lineup.
Stay tuned for the wet, soggy Day Two coverage…
