While I’ve never been to it, I’ve heard nothing but great things about Coachella. The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival usually curates a great and diverse lineup, and is apparently a clean, well-run festival. In addition there are usually a few bands on the heavier side playing to counterbalance out the tastemaker indie rock and superstar acts playing. Last year, Baroness and The Dillinger Escape Plan played, and Tool and Mastodon have also played in previous years. However, this year’s lineup was announced yesterday, and while solid, it doesn’t really have anything with fans of heavy music in mind. The closest it comes is with OFF!, the punk supergroup featuring former Black Flag/Circle Jerks frontman Keith Morris and Earthless drummer Mario Rubalcaba. Also, Mariachi el Bronx is playing as well. And… that’s it. Granted, if you’re the type that goes to the Indio, CA festival every year, there’s plenty to love (Kanye West, Arcade Fire, Kings of Leon and reunions from Big Audio Dynamite and Death From Above 1979 (aka, the duo that did the Human Giant theme song). Then again, if you’re the type that goes every year, you’re probably not a regular Metal Insider reader. Check out more info and get tickets here.
