For the last ten years or so, the Coachella and Bonnaroo Festivals have been great standalone multi-day music experiences. Both of them started out more for fans of indie rock (and in the case of Bonnaroo, jam bands) than anything else, but in recent years, they’ve become more inclusive. Clutch and Shadows Fall have played Bonnaroo in the past, and Tool have played both festivals. This year, Coachella, taking place from April 14-16, seems even more geared towards discerning metalheads.
For one, Faith No More is playing what’s going to be their first-ever United States show since their reunion last year. The biggest breakthrough this year is Baroness, who will be playing their first festival, likely in front of the largest audience they’ve played for. Porcupine Tree will also be playing, which should bring the prog band to an audience that’s likely never seen them and will be blown away. Dillinger Escape Plan, Coheed & Cambria, Them Crooked Vultures, and Les Claypool will also be performing. They’ll be joining mainstream artists including Muse, Jay Z, Gorillaz, and maybe Radiohead frontman Thom Yorke. We are so there. And by so there, we mean if any Metal Insider readers want to fly us out and put us up, we’re totally in.
