Lou Fest

Overall, Lou Fest was good times. The food was delicious, the event was "green," and the music lineup was excellent. The only complaint I would have would be the lack of shaded areas. The sun was brutal!

The day started off with a beautiful gospel set by Kim Massie -- fitting for a Sunday.

The Carolina Chocolate Drops were definitely fun, and played a foot-stompin' version of Johnny Cash's "Jackson."

I then discovered a few bands to whom I should perhaps pay a little closer attention, namely: Magnolia Summer, Cory Chisel, and the Fruit Bats.

Alejandro Escovedo at Lou Fest

Then came Alejandro Escovedo. He took the stage by storm with "Always a Friend," brought it down a few notches with some heartfelt tunes, and then came back roaring to finish his set with some real rockers. I must seriously re-evaluate the fact that I do not own his entire discography.

Jeff Tweedy performs "Sunken Treasure" at Lou Fest

The main event (for me anyway) was Jeff Tweedy. I've seen Wilco a couple of times, but this was my first time seeing Tweedy solo. I have to say it was a real treat. Tweedy opened with "Sunken Treasure," which I think the solo-acoustic version is far superior to the album version. Besides the always-comedic banter, other highlights include "New Madrid" (during which he managed to bungle a line!), "Passenger Side," and a rollicking version of "Casino Queen."

Tweedy's set list:

• Sunken Treasure
• Remember the Mountain Bed
• One Wing
• Muzzle of Bees
• I Am Trying to Break Your Heart
• Lost Love (Golden Smog)
• New Madrid (Uncle Tupelo)
• Airline to Heaven
• When the Roses Bloom Again
• "The Ruling Class" (Loose Fur)
• Jesus, Etc.
• Via Chicago
• Spiders (Kidsmoke)
• Hummingbird
• So Much Wine (Handsome Family cover)
• Passenger Side
• Casino Queen
• Misunderstood
• I'm the Man Who Loves You
• A Shot in the Arm

The night rounded out with She & Him. Zoey Deschanel's voice was both haunting and angelic -- even on the upbeat songs! However, due to extreme tiredness from an exhausting day in the sun, we only managed to stay for a couple of songs before making the trek home.