Cincinnatti, Ohio has the spotlight in the indie rock world this weekend. The National kicked off Day 1 of their Homecoming music festival on Saturday (April 28) at Smale Park in downtown Cincy. Browse our photo gallery below.
While the weather could have been warmer for a Midwest city in late April, that didn’t take away from the great live performances throughout the day. The sun was playing a cat-and-mouse game with the clouds but stayed out for Lord Huron’s energetic set. The Los Angeles-based quartet with Michigan ties performed at the Royal Oak Music Theatre the night before, but they didn’t’ seem short on enthusiasm. The 12-song set covered the Ben Schneider-led group’s eight-year career, ending with “Time to Run,” from their 2012 debut album, Lonesome Dreams.
Other highlights included Vermont folk artist Sam Amidon at the East stage, the reunited Breeders rocking out on the main stage and the haunting sounds of Julien Baker. I saw Julien live for the first time in Nashville back in November and I was blown away by her performance. It was simple yet so raw and emotional. I was happy to see her again at Homecoming.
Of course the night belonged to The National, who planned the festival after all. Frontman Matt Berninger seemed to be having a great time on stage, making jokes and dancing all night. The group as a whole appeared more relaxed and carefree being in their hometown. We expect more fun during the second headlining performance when they close out Homecoming Sunday night.
Photo credit: Dave Kim, Ferndale Radio
