High Sierra 2010

High Sierra will always be my favorite music festival. There's just no comparison. But one week in California was definitely not enough for me to catch up on all the beautiful sunshine and conversations with my dear friends I've been missing so much.

That week in California made me realize just how much I've changed since I started going to High Sierra in 2001.
I really love the friendships I've had over the years that have truly stood the test of time and distance. It always amazes me to see how some friendships evolve and grow while others simply fade and disappear. "Buckets of moonbeams in my hand..."

Musically, I'd have to say this was probably one of my least favorite High Sierras. I mean, sure, there were some great musicians scattered throughout the weekend, and I danced like no one was watching. But there were a few bands I thought were obviously missing.... Where was Five Eyed Hand? Leftover Salmon? Sound Tribe?
The music that was at High Sierra this year wasn't particularly my genre. I'm not sure what my genre is anymore, but somehow I felt a little off with where my musical interests are these days.

I really enjoyed checking out Zach Deputy. That guy was all over the place at the festival. I love the description on his website: "Island-infused Drum N Bass Gospel Ninja Soul". Seriously, that man has soul. Check him out. One man show, looping it up like no other.

Another new favorite (for me) was the New Mastersounds. Those guys seriously rocked it and kept me up dancing 'til almost sunrise on the last night of the festival... just when I was getting settled in, it was over!

I also really appreciated the March Fourth Marching Band and also Beats Antique for bringing the gypsy/circus freak vibe. Check out my short video of the March Fourth Marching Band.
There was a lot of funk and bluegrass and rock at this festival, but not much in the way of the Burning Man-esque, so kudos to them. If they both hadn't also been scheduled during Railroad Earth's late night, I probably would have spent my night entirely in the Funk'N Jamhouse. But Railroad Earth still wins my heart every time, even when I feel like I'm finally over them.

But probably my top favorite set of the festival was Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros. Not only was the band full of completely adorable musicians, they also have beautiful lyrics, great instrumentation, and a whole lot of heart. I fell in love with them, for sure.
Oh, and speaking of falling in love... The Avett Brothers. *heart flutters* Sigh.

Other epic moments from the festival include a fabulous pesto pasta dinner with a few of my favorite people from Santa Cruz. If you're reading, big love to you for showing up to share food with me and thanks so much for making me feel appreciated. It's good to know I still have family in Santa Cruz.
Kickball at sunrise was also a scene I won't soon forget. I can't believe this is the first year I actually made it to sunrise kickball, after hearing tales of this silly event for the last 9 years. Organized chaos at it's finest.

Also, getting shots for the Slip backstage at the Big Meadow before their set was pretty sweet. Tequila, lime? Sure thing Brad.... anytime. Anytime.

Alright High Sierra. Happy 20th Anniversary. I'm in for 20 more. :-)