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Spacing Out at Hulaween: Out of This World Moments November 6, 2018 07:41

Photo by Keith Griner

Words by Tiffany Clemons

Additional Photos by Isom Morgan Photography

Spirit of Suwannee Music Park (SOSMP) is by far one of, if not the best festival venue in the country. Nestled on the shady banks of the historic Suwannee River in North Florida, SOSMP is home to over 800 acres of camping areas, concert ready fields and Spanish moss draped trees, making it the perfect setting for Suwannee Hulaween, The String Cheese Incident’s annual music and visual arts festival.  

The String Cheese Incident (SCI), Silver Wrapper, and Purple Hat Productions made sure no detail was spared when it came to this year’s sold out fest. From the diverse lineup to the insane art installations at Spirit Lake. It was bigger, better and in my opinion, the best yet. 

This year’s theme was “Creatures of the Galaxy,” and the 20,000+ attendees went full blast-off with their totems, costumes and out-of-this-world camps. In celebration of the feminine divine, SCI’s Saturday night Hula Incident set was dedicated to “Women of the Galaxy,” and featured female powerhouses.

While everyone embraced the galactic attitude there seemed to be a bigger ongoing theme throughout the festival and that was the power of the VOTE. Multiple artists used their platform to encourage festival goers to use the power of their voices and to be the change.

Here were some of the notable takeaways from this year’s event:

For a $20 donation, early birds were able to attend “Hula for a Cause,” a pre-pre-party that was held in the Music Hall on Wednesday night. All donations went to support Convoy of Hope and Volunteer Florida in efforts to help communities affected by Hurricane Michael and in return for your donation, you were given a night of music by BeartoeCatfish AllianceCBDB and the one-man band Zach Deputy. If you aren’t familiar, Zach is a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter and can usually be seen surrounded by keyboards, pedals, drum pads, and sound boards which allows him to create an entire live band, looped with his own live playing. He describes his style as “island-infused drum n’ bass gospel ninja soul” and we’d recommend catching one of his sets near you!

Just Chameleons opened the Spirit Lake stage on Thursday for the pre-party and had everyone dancing to their original reggae, jazz, funk and soulful music. Not far from home, this Tallahassee based band closed out their set with a dedication to the late Mac Miller covering his song Dang! that features Anderson .Paak.

Over on the Patch Stage, Augusta-natives Funk You were laying down a powerful set of their own. This band always makes the most of their opportunities on the big stage, and Hulaween was no different. Highlights included a killer take on Prince's "1999," as well as guest appearances from The Brotherhorns and vocalist Amy Taylor.

Bubbles filled The Patch sky for Sound Tribe Sector 9’s first set of the weekend where they performed their album, Axe the Cables. Though this, as far as I know, was the only fan-planned bubble party, bubbles filled the air most of the weekend and it definitely made for an even more magical experience. Who doesn’t love bubbles? Also, seeing STS9 in the daylight is weird. They performed another set in the Patch later that night.

For the most part, the weather throughout the weekend was perfect. We had a little rain on Thursday night that started with a drizzle during The Floozies over in the Patch. This little element of wet, according to like, EVERYONE, completely elevated their set. It made the lasers a little more sparkly, the funk a little funkier and definitely made you a lot more smiley.

During Lettuce’s post-midnight pre-party set, the drizzle continued and a massive spider web broke out. Someone brought one of those faux stringy spider web thingies, typically used for a Halloween decoration to the Amphitheatre and while holding one end, began to pass it around. From one person to another it began to stretch and grow, and before you knew it, almost the entirety of the audience was under a canvas of spider web. Edit: I’ve learned that some people hate this… but I thought it was awesome!

LIZZO, LIZZO, LIZZO. Lizzo is an over the top-female empowering-twerking-rapper/singer from Texas and just happens to be one hell of a flute player too. She is loud, proud and is spreading her feminist message… one leg at a time. Her risqué dance moves are paired with messages of self-love and acceptance and really makes you want to take control of your life by the balls.  She reminded everyone that after they are done partying, and every day after, to look at yourself in the mirror and say, “I love you,” and to remind yourself that you are beautiful and you can do anything! Her set was full of surprises. She had 2 fabulous featured dancers and her DJ behind her. At one point, someone from the audience threw up a disposable camera and while Lizzo missed the catch, she chased after it, snapped a photo from the stage and tossed it back. She stated, “Women are so wonderful. We’ve got titties… and all this ass! I love being a bitch!” She then also admits to being a little boy crazy and went into her song, Boy. Don’t forget that reminder…

BUT DID YOU SEE THE WALKING TALKING TREE IN SPIRIT LAKE? He told me I could get up in his branches anytime… 

One big notable point that needs to be made, are the green efforts. Large blue bags were passed out upon entry and throughout the fest for festival goers to recycle. You could fill your bag and bring it to the booth near the main Spirit Lake entrance and trade it in for a chance to play smashed-can “plinko” and sign up for a raffle prize.   

Odesza returned to Hula for the first time since 2015 as the first headliner of the weekend and the sheer production value of their show is mind blowing. In 2015 they were on the Amphitheatre stage with a backing screen and a few lasers and lights. This year, their set was a full-on masterpiece. They featured on a raised platform where the front was a screen, and with the backing screen, 2 side screens and their iconic icosahedron shaped screen above the stage together it created a pano-effect for visuals. The Odesza Drumline marched out and lined the platform stage wearing “Jason” masks with their all white ensembles and signature hoodies. With visually stunning lasers and intricate lighting, choreography, confetti cannons, fireworks and thousands of fans singing every word, it was clear why they were brought back as a featured headliner.

Photo by Keith Griner

Were you stopped asked a weird question? It might have been because you were being polled for “Festy Feud” which took place over in the Silent Disco. With questions like “What is one thing you could change about festivals?” and answers like “Stank-ass portos” and “Tall ass totems,” a lot of laughs were had while contestants played the feud.

I was sitting in Spirit Lake watching the laser beams shoot over the lake and into the trees when a stranger came up to me and handed me a box with 3 buttons. I asked what it was and he said, “push one.” About a million outcomes ran through my mind in the split second before I pushed one and the second I did, fire bursted from one of the floating flowers on the lake. I released it and pushed another and fire shot up from a different one. I WAS CONTROLLING THE FIRE ON SPIRIT LAKE. If I may be so bold, I’ve never felt more powerful in my entire life than I did at that very moment… and for about 10 minutes after that. You truly never know what magical experience you’ll have in Spirit Lake, especially after dark.  

One of best part about festivals is discovering new music, and discovery is exactly what happened when I stumbled into the Patch for KNOWER. They are typically an electro-jazz music duo Louis Cole (drums) and Genevieve Artadi (vocals), but have been touring with a band. I don’t know what it was about the drummer (I swear I don’t have a thing for drummers), but he was magnetic. Maybe it was because he was wearing a giant snow parka in direct 70+ degree sunlight that peaked my interest, or maybe because Genevieve and I have the same hair color, or that she was screaming lyrics like, “butts and tits and money… YES!” that made me stop, but I’m glad I did. Their music blurs the lines between electronic, jazz, funk and weird music. But weird as in different, nothing you’ve ever heard before and in the best way possible. Genevieve bounces around the stage engaging the audience and as a whole, this band is terribly exciting and progressive. 

Lettuce took the Meadow stage early on Saturday afternoon and while they jammed their funky jams, people began to throw actual lettuce… during Lettuce. This is the first time I’ve ever seen this. Does this happen at all Lettuce shows? It. Was. Hilarious.

If you were looking for a little pick me up, all you had to do was stop by The Complimentary Bar in Spirit Lake, but NOT for a cocktail. The Complimentary Bar was setup to serve COMPLIMENTS! What a great idea. There should be more of these everywhere, like those little library book houses.

The 5th SCI set of the weekend was the Hula Incident featuring, “Women of the Galaxy,” and I’m just going to go ahead and say that it was the BEST theme set EVER. The set paid tribute to the young and the old, the late and the great, and the best of the best female singers of our time and featured Lisa FischerJen HartswickRhonda Thomasand Ann Wilson. 

Below is the setlist: 

Gimme Shelter (Rolling Stones) – Lisa Fischer on vocals

Rock Steady (Aretha Franklin) – Jen Hartswick on vocals and trumpet

Proud Mary (Tina Turner’s version) – Rhonda Thomas on vocals

Killing Me Softly (Robert Flack) – Lisa Fischer on vocals

Respect (Aretha Franklin) – Rhonda Thomas on vocals

Valerie (Amy Whinehouse) – Rhonda Thomas on vocals

Heartbreaker (Pat Benatar) – Jen Hartswick on vocals and trumpet

Politician (Cream) – Ann Wilson on vocals

Barracuda (Heart) – Ann Wilson on vocals

Get Up Stand Up (Bob Marley) – allllll the women of the galaxy!

Needless to say, it was a powerful and empowering set but when Ann Wilson herself, belted out Heart’s own Barracuda, the whole place went nuts. The ongoing “be the change” theme I mentioned previously was made even more clear when the ladies all came together for Bob Marley’s Get Up Stand Up. It was an incredibly commanding and inspiring moment that united not only all of the musicians and vocalists on stage, but everyone in the audience as well. The energy was unparalleled.

And speaking of parallels, a parallel universe is where the encore went with SCI’s “Space Jam.” They began with Rollover and took it to another planet, literally! From Star Wars to Star Trek and all your favorites in between, it is going to be really hard to top this year’s theme! Until then, you can watch the encore in it's entirety below.

A lot of folks missed the Incident’s encore because they ran to the Patch to catch the ever funky Vulfpeck. These guys are known for their funky rhythms, quirky lyrics and anecdotes between songs and together it all makes for a fun and groovy show. With multiple sit ins by Adam Deitch, (Lettuce and Break Science) the Shady Horns, (Lettuce) and Roosevelt Collier, their set was non-stop energy, especially after their featured vocalist Antwuan Stanley showed up. Vulfpeck knows how to interact and engage with their “Vulf-pack” and that was proven when the crowd was asked to participate in a little lyric change during Christmas in L.A. It just so happens that “Hula in Suwannee” fits as the perfect substitute with the melody. Each section of the audience was given a different harmony and when everyone sung together, it was harmonious. Check out their full set thanks for FunkCity.net below.

The elusive Jamiroquai would only step foot on US soil to perform five times in 2018, and thank goodness that Hula was one of those times because HE. WAS. AMAZING. Seriously though, if you weren’t already in another universe after SCI’s encore, Mr. Jay Kay took you there. With his robot hat that gave me serious Bowser vibes, he and his tight British jazz-funk band charged the Meadow stage a little late (see Vulfpeck), but played a little late to make up for it and everyone danced… the. entire. time. I can’t even really describe the experience because it was just that, an experience. If you were there, you get it, and I’ll just leave it at that.  

What did you bet/win at Frick Frack Blackjack? I saw a guy win a hand with a pixi stick, some string cheese and a condom. 

New Orleans vibes were in full effect on Sunday, complete with an authentic second line parade into Spirit Lake for Rebirth Brass Band. The parade was filled with dragons, dancers and some Do Whatcha Wanna. Once the line reached the Spirit Lake stage, the party didn’t stop. The second liners stuck around with their elaborate costumes and danced and sang with pure jubilee the entire set. This was a highlight of my weekend and definitely the perfect way to wake up my Sunday!

Photo via Keith Griner

Sunday at the Amphitheatre was an entire NOLA party on its own, with every artist having some sort of tie to the Big Easy. Kicking off the day were Hula celebs Jen Hartswick and Nick Cassarino. I call them Hula Celebs because during any given set, one of them would pop out and jam along with whoever was playing. It almost became a game! Jen Hartswick (Trey Anastasio Band) and Nick Cassarino of The Nth Power, (which was formed where? New Orleans!) have been touring together almost all of 2018 and are an incredibly talented and wonderful duo. Their soulful vibes and unique sounds work together in perfect harmony. Since they were opening the day, Jen tried to figure out who in the crowd was just waking up, or who hadn’t been to sleep yet. It seemed to be about 50/50 from what we could tell. She also joked that she is a 5pm singer, so we were just going to have to deal with her 11am voice… could have fooled me because she blew me away. I saw her and her band five years back at a little fest called Bear Creek and while that was amazing, she is more of a leading lady than ever. Her voice paired with her subtle trumpet riffs were the perfect way to get Hula’s final day started. Nick you were good too… haha. But for real, dude is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to guitar and vocals. I’d go see this duo everyday if I could. 

MAVIS STAPLES Y’ALL. Standing tall at 5 foot nothing and 79 years young, Mavis freaking Staples. Her deep raspy voice commanded the Amphitheatre and she was all smiles as she spoke to the audience during her set. She even said that she was going to run for president, but then immediately laughed and said to not take her seriously… however, I’d totally vote for her! She’s compassionate, has a lot of stories to tell and inspiring. I’m sure you are wondering how she ties to New Orleans…. WELL, not only is she a Jazz Fest alum, she filmed her last video, If All I Was Was Black, in NOLA and while it controversial, (what isn’t these days?) was also a powerful political statement video showing the replacing of statues throughout the city. Check out the official music video below.


Straight outta NOLA, the funktastic, Galactic, took the moss-covered stage next and was anyone else hoping for a David Shaw cameo for Hey Na or Dolla Diva? Because I was… at that same Bear Creek when I saw the Jennifer Hartswick Band, I also got to see David, Maggie Koerner and Galactic debut Dolla Diva on that same stage. Oh well…

And speaking of David ShawThe Revivalists, also hailing from New Orleans closed out our NOLA day and the Amphitheatre stage for Hula 2018. This is their first time back since 2016, (though David Shaw did a solo set in 2017) and like Odesza have grown tremendously. If you are a fan of The Revs, you probably know that they like to their own surprise theme for Halloween. If this was your first show, like the confused person behind me, it was a great surprise! The guys came out full throttle, all in a different color Adidas track suit, jumping and yelling, “YOU GOTTA FIGHT, FOR YOUR RIGHT, TO PAAARRRRRRRTY!” (Was this an underlying message of the ongoing “fight for your right” theme throughout the fest? Or just a coincidence?) They went right back into Revivalists mode singing songs from their last album Men Amongst Mountains, a few oldies like Criminal and slowed it down with a crowd favorite, Soulfight.

They also played their latest #1 hits Wish I Knew You and All My Friends and then went straight back into Beastie Boy mode for a Sabotage encore. Lead man, David Shaw, engaged with the audience the entire set tagging hands and jumping in and out of the crowd and ended the set thanking the audience for being kind to one another. He said he could clearly see the love amongst us and reminded everyone to continue take care of each other and to vote. If you weren’t a fan of The Revivalists when you came to this set, you definitely were when you left. Their new album, Take Good Care comes out on November 9 and you can pre-order it via the band's official website.

Suwannee Hulaween 2018 was almost over, and there were only 3 sets left to catch… unfortunately they were all at the same time. Festival goers had to choose between the Brooklyn based funk band Turkuaz on the Spirit Lake Stage, electronic music DJ, Gramatik in the Patch and the inspiring and powerful female presence of Janelle Monae on the Meadow main stage.

Janelle Monae was an important closer to the ongoing theme of the fest because she enforces messages of equality and love, which are both important in today’s social and political climate, not to mention this woman can SING! And DANCE! Her production was bright, bold and beautiful just like her and her music. She spoke her truth and encouraged everyone to find theirs. It was perfect. (Note: I gave myself a blister trying to dance like her a few years ago at Jazz Fest. I refrained from doing that this time. Mostly because my legs were still dead from dancing to Jamiroquai the night before)

DID YOU FIND THE SECRET UNDERGROUND BALL PIT?

These moments are only a drop in the bucket with everything that you could have experienced on the SOSMP grounds. I’ve been to a lot of festivals and easily average 5-10 a year, and Suwannee Hulaween takes the cake as my favorite. From the art and ambiance, logistics and layout, organization, community and diverse lineup, it’s a true fantasy world and we are lucky enough to get to play in it. With over 80 miles danced/walked, I’ve officially put another Hula in the books. Stay tuned for early bird tickets and snag them while you can. The past 2 years have completely sold out and I’d really love for you to join me next year for a new set of beautiful experiences! 

 


Here's Why We're Stoked For Hulaween This Weekend October 22, 2018 15:26

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Words by Craig Baird: Home Team Photography
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The Suwannee Hulaween celebration is fast becoming one of the premier music festivals in the country. October 25th-28th, The String Cheese Incident and Purple Hat Productions, along with The Spirit of Suwannee Music Park, are pulling out all the stops to make this year’s Hulaween festival the biggest Halloween party yet. This weekend is sure to be an unforgettable four days of music and experiences. What sets Hulaween apart from other festivals is the incomparable setting of Suwanee. Set in Live Oak, FL amongst 800-acres of Spanish moss draped oak and cypress, The Spirit of Suwannee Music Park is easily one of the most beautiful music venues in the country.

On top of the natural beauty of Suwannee, the Spirit Lake experience takes the multi-day music festival to a new level. Full of lighting, pyrotechnics, art installations, performance art, and music, this interactive space creates a community atmosphere that encourages festival goers to engage with the surroundings and each other. 

The Spirit of Suwannee Music Park has been host of many great music festivals such as Wanee, Aura, The Purple Hatter’s Ball, and Suwannee River Jam, but Hulaween is unlike any other to come to the park. Similar to other festivals hosted by The String Cheese Incident, Suwannee Hulaween is more than just a lot of bands in the same place. It’s an experience that will be hard to forget. The String Cheese Incident, will return to Spirit of Suwannee music park to headline all three nights of the festival. ODESZA, Jamiroquai and Janelle Monáe will be joining them as headliners and bringing their own unique flavor to the fest.

It's not just the headliners that makes this years festival so special. With artists such as Tipper, The Revivalists, STS9, Gramatik, Lettuce, Emancipator, Galactic, The Polish Ambassador, and Yonder Mountain String Band, there’s a little something for everyone at Hulaween. 

This years pre party is going to be something special as well. Hulaween veterans Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, STS9, and Lettuce all return for a night that could stand with most full festival lineups. Some of my personal favorites CBDB and Funk You will perform also to help kick off Hulaween in proper fashion. This years festival is one not to be missed, and we look forward to providing coverage throughout the weekend.

Watch the official Hulaween (2017) after movie here:


Suwannee Hulaween Reveals Heavy Hitting 2018 Lineup May 23, 2018 10:15

Photo by Keith Griner: Phierce Photo

The String Cheese Incident, Jamiroquai, ODESZA, Janelle Monáe, Tipper, The Revivalists, Vulfpeck, STS9, REZZ, Tory Lanez, Gramatik, NGHTMRE, Action Bronson, Lettuce, Trampled By Turtles, Stephen Marley, Bishop Briggs, Dr. Dog, TroyBoi, Medeski Martin & Wood, Lizzo, Mavis Staples, Emancipator Ensemble, Snakehips, The Wood Brothers, Galactic, The Polish Ambassador & The Diplomatic Scandal, Manic Focus & The MF’n Band, OPIUO, Yonder Mountain String Band, Turkuaz, Trevor Hall, SunSquabi, Soulection, Justin Martin, Fisher, Bustle In Your Hedgerow, and MORE

Tickets On Sale Now at www.suwanneehulaween.com

Today Suwannee Hulaween, one of North America’s premiere multi-faceted boutique festival experiences, has revealed the complete musical lineup for its 2018 event. This all-encompassing collection of some of live and electronic music’s most revered talent will offer fans an essential soundtrack for another fully immersive creative journey at The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak Florida October 26-28.

Hulaween prides itself on assembling a who’s who billing of scene leading talent with a focus on defying genre boundaries and attracting all tastes. The 2018 festival will feature headlining sets from the likes of longtime host band of the festival The String Cheese Incident, plus a top billing of Grammy award winners and nominees featuring live-electronic front runners ODESZA, a South-East exclusive and one of just five 2018 North American performances by modern funk icons Jamiroquai, and very special showing by singer-songwriter Janelle Monae on the wake of her blowout Dirty Computer record. The star-studded billing continues with the reigning king of west coast bass Tipper, five piece American funk band Vulfpeck, multiple sets by leaders of the post-rock dance movement STS9, the alternative radio chart topping wonder of The Revivalists, dark-electro wunderkind Rezz, plus the unique electronic stylings of Gramatik, NGHTMRE, Troyboi, Snakehips, Emancipator Ensemble, Manic Focus & the MF’n Band, Justin Martin, Kill Frenzy,  and many more.

In Suwannee Hulaween Talent Buyer & Partner Michael Berg’s own words, “Our entire team obsesses over the lineup from top to bottom. Within our means, we strive to make sure it's exactly what the #HulaCrew is looking for musically when they come visit us in FL for the weekend at Suwannee. While there are many acts procured and/or lost throughout the difficult booking process, the 2018 lineup came together magically and feels like in year 6, it's our strongest to date."

 

"One special artist addition for us all this year was landing 1 of only 5 total US Jamiroquai performances for their first time stateside in 13+ years. This will be the South East exclusive performance for the Grammy award winning pioneers of future funk from the UK. It's a full circle moment for us as fans, and a dream come true as independent promoters to work with a living legend who's music and career has had such a profound effect on our path to where & who we are."

The Hulaween experience is spawned through the unique blend of peak musical experiences with a never-ending assemblage of immersive environments and activities to explore. Hula fans may find themselves getting lost in the awe-inspiring artistic portal of Spirit Lake, starting their day with a rejuvenating yoga class, or seeking inspiration at a speaker session or workshop. Surprises hide beyond every turn at Hulaween with utmost care going into the curation of art-installations and live performers plus, of course, the unbound creativity and embracing ethos of its loyal attendees.

It is through this unique sense of community, creativity, and connection that Suwannee Hulaween has grown from a friends and family campout to one of the alternative festival scene’s most joyous reunions.

About Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park

Set in the midst of 800-acres of Spanish moss-draped oak and cypress along the black Suwannee River and complete with the largest bat house in the southeast U.S, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is one of the most beautiful live music venues in the country. The park also offers guest comforts including a general store, full-service restaurant, free showers, indoor bathrooms and water stations.

For More Information, Tickets, and VIP Packages for Suwannee Hulaween 2018, please visit:

WWW.SUWANNEEHULAWEEN.COM

 


Watch Mike Gordon Reunite With Benevento/Russo Duo At Hulaween October 28, 2017 12:20

 

Marco Benevento and Joe Russo originally met while in junior high school in New Jersey. The Benevento Russo Duo began in 2001 when Russo secured a weekly gig at New York's Knitting Factory music club, and asked Benevento to join him on the Hammond B3 organ. By 2003 the band had self-released two albums, Debut Album and Darts. In 2005, Best Reason to Buy the Sun was released on Ropeadope Records to critical acclaim. Play Pause Stop was released on July 11, 2006.

The Duo was once said to have a small but dedicated fan base. Their association with Mike Gordon of Phish, who became something of an unofficial third member of the group, certainly helped elevate them to the next level. In 2004, Gordon performed with The Duo for several shows benefiting Headcount, a voter registration organization. The trio played a number of dates in late 2004 and 2005 including the Bonnaroo Music Festival in June 2005 and a New Year's Eve series of shows in Florida and the northeastern United States.

In summer 2006, Gordon, along with Phish bandmate Trey Anastasio, again joined the Benevento-Russo Duo for a co-headlining tour with Phil Lesh and Friends before finishing the final leg of the tour on their own. The group performed various songs from each members' catalog, as well as a handful of brand new originals. The quartet parted ways after the tour ended in July.

Last night at Hulaween, the Duo reunited for just their fourth performance since 2008, and with Mike Gordon also on the lineup, many wondered about a potential collaboration. Sure enough, Gordon joined the guys for an old shool Duo original, "Scratchitti," and video footage can be seen below via Live For Live Music. Stay tuned for further updates from Hulaween throughout the weekend!


Watch Umphrey's McGee Perform "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" At Hulaween October 27, 2017 11:20

Photo by Craig Baird: Home Team Photography

Hulaween, the weekend so many have been waiting for all year, got its 'unofficial' start last night as its truly ridiculous 'pre-party' began. With the variety of Joe Russo's Almost Dead x2 , Greensky Bluegrass, Lettuce, Kyle Hollingsworth Band, Spafford, and Zach Deputy on tap, the vibe at Suwannee felt like the weekend was in full force. Oh yeah, did we mention two sets Umphrey's McGee, as well? Well, that happened too. One of the evenings many highlights came in the form of a 20-minute cover of Pink Floyd's "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" late during UM's second set. Fortunately, HD video footage has surfaced via Live For Live Music and can be watched in full below!

Watch Umphrey's perform Pink Floyd's "Shine On You Crazy Diamond via L4LM here:

Umphrey’s McGee: Suwannee Hulaween - Live Oak, FL - 10.26.17

Set 1: No Crying In Mexico > 40’s Theme > Wappy Sprayberry > All In Time > Push The Pig, Dump City > All In Time

Set 2:: Le Blitz > Remind Me > The Triple Wide > The Floor, Day Nurse > Shine On You Crazy Diamond > Day Nurse, Booth Love


Suwannee Hulaween Reveals Another Massive Initial Lineup June 22, 2017 13:25

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Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions
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Suwannee Hulaween, a diverse music and arts experience at the historic Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, today has revealed the musical lineup for its October 2017 event. Celebrating its fifth year, Suwannee Hulaween will offer a wide-reaching exposé of live and electronic music’s finest to soundtrack a fully immersive creative journey.
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Hulaween attendees may find themselves entranced by the world-leading instrumentative wonder of The String Cheese Incident, The Disco Biscuits, Greensky Bluegrass, and Lettuce, being blown away by dance-floor commanding electronic giants like Bassnectar, GRiZ, RL Grime, Claude VonStroke, Beats Antique, FKJ, Shiba San, and Manic Focus, or being treated to globally renowned headlining live acts like Ween, Run The Jewels, Portugal. The Man, Nick Murphy (Chet Faker), Nathaniel Rateliff, and many more.
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The String Cheese Incident will remain at the helm of Hulaween, lending their creative vision and experiences touring as one of the world’s most sought after Jam acts to help shape the iconic look and feel of their flagship festival.
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This movement shaping event offers its loyal followers a doorway into a visionary paradise, a channel into a reality defined by boundless surprises and exploration. Suwannee Hulaween’s five year anniversary will fuse a diversely curated musical lineup with awe-inspiring art installations, live performance, yoga, workshops, a speaker series and a slew of interactive activities to get lost in.
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It remains the artistic triumph of Hulaween’s fully immersive inventive playground, Spirit Lake, that continues to defines the multi-faceted Suwannee voyage. Psychedelic media arts, otherworldly lighting design, and bewitching projections lure attendees deeper into the wooded lakeside oasis where they may encounter live performers and of course costumed fans embedded into this wildly collaborative passage.
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Suwannee Hulaween has built its reputation on an unparalleled combination of world class musical talent, finely curated artistic programming, and a stunning natural location. It is such attention to detail and dedication to immersion that offers Hulaween attendees a truly peak experience.
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The 2017 festival will also feature a fully programmed Thursday pre-party on October 26 at Spirit Lake with musical offerings from the likes of Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Greensky Bluegrass, Lettuce, Liquid Stranger, The Devil Makes Three, EOTO & Friends, Zach Deputy, Kyle Hollingsworth Band, and more.
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In co-producer talent buyer, Michael Harrison Berg’s own words on Suwannee Hulaween’s fifth year, “Suwannee Hulaween, our flagship event, turns 5 years old this year and feels like it's finally flowered into a grown up. Between the ever evolving and diverse musical line up with a curated blend of Jam, Dance Music, Rock, and Hip Hop, along with with the experiential art experience of the Spirit Lake installation, back dropped by the natural beauty of the Spanish Moss laden oak tree forest at Spirit of the Suwannee, there is no better Halloween party in the world. Five years ago, we set out to take The String Cheese Incident's annual Halloween bash, and grow it into a full scale festival. Now, we have the honor of producing an event that we'd personally want to be at. We've watched the process come and go full circle as we've grown together with the most loyal and dedicated fanbase we've ever witnessed in our collective career. For our 5th anniversary in 2017, we plan to level up across the board.”
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About Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park:
Set in the midst of 800-acres of Spanish moss-draped oak and cypress along the black Suwannee River and complete with the largest bat house in the southeast U.S, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is one of the most beautiful live music venues in the country. The park also offers guest comforts including a general store, full-service restaurant, free showers, indoor bathrooms and water stations.
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For More Information, Tickets, and VIP Packages for Suwannee Hulaween 2017, please visit: WWW.SUWANNEEHULAWEEN.COM
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Watch the official aftermovie from Hulaween 2016 here:


Listen To The String Cheese Incident's 80's-Themed Hulaween Set November 1, 2016 23:34

This past Saturday night, The String Cheese Incident delivered three stellar sets during day two at it's annual Suwannee Hulaween music festival at The Spirit Of The Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, Florida.  While the band delivered a stellar performance from start to finish, the second set was certainly the highlight; featuring a tribute to the 80's with special guests for a performance dubbed Stringier Things.After an appearance from Jennifer Hartswick during the first set, the Antibalas Horns, Rhonda Thomas, and Tony White joined the band for the special tribute.  

The set was highlighted by a variety of 80's hits, including "Should I Stay Or Should I Go" (The Clash), "Let's Groove" (Earth, Wind, and Fire), "White Wedding" (Billy Idol), "Sweet Child O' Mine (Guns N Roses), and rousing take on The B52's "Love Shack."  The "Medley" that would follow was accompanied by an amazing fireworks display and included portions of David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance,” Grandmaster Flash’s “White Lines,” Men Without Hats’ “Safety Dance,” Dexy’s Midnight Runner’s “Come On Eileen,” Frankie Goes To Hollywood’s “Relax,” Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up,” Human League’s “Don’t You Want Me” and  Talking Heads' “Burning Down The House”.

Listen to String Cheese Incident's entire 10.29.16 Hulaween show here:

Setlist: String Cheese Incident - Hulaween - 10.29.16

Set One: Rhum ‘N Zouc > Restless Wind, I Wish*, Turn This Around, Joyful Sound, Can’t Wait Another Day

Set Two (w/ Antibalas Horns, Rhonda & Tony): Would I Lie To You?, Should I Stay Or Should I Go, Upside Down, She Blinded Me With Science, Let’s Groove, White Wedding, Sweet Child O’ Mine, Love Shack, Medley

Set Three: Colorado Bluebird Sky, Sweet Spot+, Sometimes A River, Believe, Way Back Home, Miss Brown’s Teahouse, Colliding

Encore: Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I’m Yours+

  • * – w/ Jennifer Hartswick
  • + – w/ Rhonda Thomas and Tony White


Suwannee Hulaween Announces Phase 2 Lineup, Thursday Pre-Party, + More July 19, 2016 12:00

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Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions
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Silver Wrapper and Purple Hat Productions have announced the phase two artists for the fourth annual Suwannee Hulaween, the lineup for the Thursday Pre-Party, and a new stage. Hosted by one of America’s most independently successful and diverse jam bands, The String Cheese Incident, Suwannee Hulaween takes place over the Halloween weekend, October 28 – 30, 2016 at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, FL.

Joining the lineup for Suwannee Hulaween is world-renowned techno producer and Dirtybird Records founder Claude VonStroke, one-of-a-kind soul singer and his band Charles Bradley and His Extraordinaires, dreamy sub pop artist Washed Out, French DJ and producer Brodinski, Chicago-based electronic music duo Louis the Child, Grammy award winning bluegrass band The Travelin' McCourys, and English electronic house duo Bondax, as well as Larry Keel & Drew Emmitt, Twiddle, Quixotic, Too Many Zooz, Thriftworks, SunSquabi, Louis Futon and many others.  
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The Thursday Pre-Party also features a stacked lineup of diverse artists on multiple stages including two sets of prog-rock jam scene stalwarts Umphrey's McGee, groundbreaking Americana quintet Greensky Bluegrass, and experimental all-improv electronic duo EOTO & Friends, SCI keyboardist’ side project, Kyle Hollingsworth Band along with Marco Benevento, Fruition, The Werks, GanjaWhiteNight, The Heavy Pets, Late Night Radio, Con Brio, and more.  
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Check out the official Hulaween 2015 recap here:
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For 2016, the event producers have announced the addition of a brand new stage to Suwannee Hulaween. Located near the horse stable camping area, the new stage will help eliminate congestion at the Amphitheater Stage and will be comparable in size and space.

As always, fans will be treated to three nights, and 7 sets, of The String Cheese Incident, and the band will perform a themed Halloween set, featuring several cover debuts, costumes and other surprises.
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Attendees can also explore Spirit Lake – an experiential artistic glowing menagerie of multimedia metalwork, paintings, sculptures, light projections and live performances that morphs the prehistoric-looking forest into a vivid dream-like space. Although the event producers are not ready to unveil any secrets, Spirit Lake is promised to be larger than ever before, with additional installations and surprises.

Suwannee Hulaween will also feature theme nights, yoga, workshops, and endless interactive activities throughout the weekend.

Ultimate Incident VIP Packages are sold out, but weekend passes are available and moving quickly at www.suwanneehulaween.com. Ticket sales will be limited to 20,000 attendees, so grab tickets now in order to avoid missing out on Hulaween 2016.

About Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park:
Set in the midst of 800-acres of Spanish moss-draped oak and cypress along the black Suwannee River and complete with the largest bat house in the southeast U.S, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is one of the most beautiful live music venues in the country. The park also offers guest comforts including a general store, full-service restaurant, free showers, indoor bathrooms and water stations.
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Suwannee Hulaween 2016 Lineup:
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The String Cheese Incident (Three Nights)
My Morning Jacket
Disclosure (DJ Set)
Logic
Umphrey’s McGee
STS9
Big Gigantic (feat. The Motet)
Rebelution
The Claypool Lennon Delirium
Gramatik
Lettuce
Greensky Bluegrass
Boys Noize
Claude VonStroke*
Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals
Charles Bradley & His Extraordinaires*
Snarky Puppy
RÜFÜS DU SOL
Bob Moses
Washed Out*
Louis The Child*
Brodinski*
Slow Magic
The Revivalists
Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe
Future Rock
Manic Focus
Illenium*
The Travelin’ McCourys*
Bondax*
The Motet
Larry Keel & Drew Emmitt*
Twiddle*
Quixotic*
Too Many Zooz*
Thriftworks*
SunSquabi*
Louis Futon*
Unlike Pluto
Passafire*
Marvel Years*
Plyenso*
Auto Body*
Cofresi*
Mungion (feat. Nicholas Gerlach)*
Flightwave*
Kill J*
Artifakts*
Spiritual Rez*
Whetherman*
Come Back Alice
The Fritz*
El Dub
Savi Fernandez Band
Higher Learning*
Cure For The Common*
Heather Gillis Band*
Ajeva
Post Pluto
Electric Kif*
Kaleigh Baker & The Groove Orient*
Savants of Soul
Bells and Robes*
Aaron Lebos Reality*
Juanjamon Band*
MZG*
Corbitt Clampitt Experience*
Locochino*
Galbraith Group*

Thursday Pre-Party:
Umphrey's McGee (two sets)
Greensky Bluegrass
EOTO & Friends*
Kyle Hollingsworth Band*
Marco Benevento*
Fruition*
The Werks*
GanjaWhiteNight*
The Heavy Pets*
Con Brio*
Flamingosis*
Imagined Herbal Flows*
Broccoli Samurai*
Trae Pierce & The T-Stones*
Future Vintage*

*Wave 2 artist

Suwannee Hulaween Links:
Twitter + Instagram: @HulaweenFL (#HulaweenFL)  

Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Links:
Twitter: @SOSMP (#Suwannee)


Suwanee Hulaween Announces Stellar Initial Lineup April 27, 2016 13:03

Photo by Josh Timmermans :: Noble Visions

JUST ANNOUNCED: INITIAL LINEUP FOR THE FOURTH ANNUAL SUWANNEE HULAWEEN

OCTOBER 28 – 30, 2016

SPIRIT OF THE SUWANNEE MUSIC PARK IN LIVE OAK, FL

THE STRING CHEESE INCIDENT, MY MORNING JACKET, DISCLOSURE (DJ SET), LOGIC, UMPHREY’S MCGEE, STS9, BIG GIGANTIC FEAT. THE MOTET, REBELUTION, THE CLAYPOOL LENNON DELIRIUM, AND MORE! 

TICKETS ON-SALE FRIDAY, APRIL 29 AT NOON EST

Silver Wrapper and Purple Hat Productions have announced the first round of artists for the fourth annual Suwannee Hulaween, hosted by one of America’s most independently successful and diverse jam bands, The String Cheese Incident, over the Halloween weekend, October 2830, 2016 at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, FL.

Performing at Suwannee Hulaween are Undeniable name in American Rock My Morning Jacket, Grammy nominated British dance act Disclosure (DJ Set), chart dominating, hip-hop poet Logic, prog-rock jam band Umphrey’s McGee, livetronica pioneers STS9, Colorado’s live funk/electronic duo Big Gigantic featuring The Motet, Southern California reggae outfit Rebelution, legendary experimental psych-pop project The Claypool Lennon Delirium, Brooklyn electro-soul producer Gramatik, ground-breaking Americana quintet from the Midwest Greensky Bluegrass, New York funkateers Lettuce, German electronic music producer Boys Noize, urban future-funk and soul breakout  Anderson .Paak with his live band The Free Nationals and many more.

Fans will also be treated to three nights, and 7 sets, of The String Cheese Incident. As always, the band will perform a themed Halloween set, featuring several cover debuts, costumes and other surprises.  
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Since last year’s Suwannee Hulaween saw triple the amount of attendees, event producers will be making several changes for 2016. Ensuring an elevated fan experience from the moment of arrival, ticket sales will be limited to 20,000 weekend passes. Tickets go on sale Friday, April 29 at noon EST.
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Watch the official recap from Hulaween 2015 here:
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