Upstream 2018 Top Picks

The second year of Upstream Festival took place the first weekend of June and it surpassed all our expectations. Moving it a bit later than the first year may have been a good decision as more than 30 thousand people gathered at Seattle’s famous Pioneer Square to enjoy the fest. This time around the two main stages were a little closer to the north end of CenturyLink Stadium creating easy access and fast turnaround with the setup of two stages instead of one.

There were so many bands to see the three days were a constant rush and we can’t complain about anything we saw. There was a good mix of local acts along with more known headliners and the event felt very well organized. It’s always great to walk around that area and hear music playing everywhere, including local galleries, street baskers, KEXP live streaming from London Plane, local bars, hotels, and restaurants. We can’t wait to see what the event turns into over the next years. Below are some of our favorite acts from 2018.

Little Dragon

If you’ve never seen this group live then you’re really missing out. Their energy is contagious and there is no way you can’t join the dance party. Lead singer Yukimi Nagano is righteously nicknamed Little Dragon because that is exactly how she carries herself. She is a small human but demands all attention on her and she does not disappoint.

Miguel

We had heard many things about Miguel’s live sets and they were all real. This man knows how to move and how to drive the crown crazy. He closed out the mainstage adored by screaming fans asking for more as he swayed on the floor. His voice is as good as his charm and stage charisma deserving all eyes on him.

Flaming Lips

I don’t think these guys ever play a show and just say, “Let’s take it easy tonight.” From the moment they take the stage there is constant excitement emphasized by an incredible amount of props throughout their set. Wayne Coyne always looks like he stepped off a film set, perhaps one Johnny Depp would be the protagonist, wearing a smile on his face. He rode a mechanical unicorn through the crowd sprinkling glitter and even crowd surfed in a plastic ball at the end of the night on top of the masses. Nothing short of incredible and top performance.

Murder City Devils

This oldie but goodie took the very small stage of Axis and brought mayhem to everyone attending. The garage band still proved that they can stir up and play an insane show and we loved every second of it. Spencer Moody played close to the crowd often holding the mic with his mouth and orchestrating chaos.

Cut Copy

When Dan Whitford formed his project back in 2001 I bet he didn’t think it would turn into such a great deal for many fans. The Australian band now has released four records and a favorite pop dance band that tours spreading joy. Whitford stood behind his keyboard in the middle constantly dancing around creating a great vibe below.

Zola Jesus

The mystery behind Zola Jesus’ persona only creates more interest in her live performances. She is passionate, creative, enchanting, and constantly able to draw you into her world. Her fifth full length album, Okovi, is dark, obsessive, and hard to stop listening to. We absolutely loved her set at Upstream.

Tacocat

Hardly Art’s artist took the mainstage on Saturday and brightened up everyone’s afternoon. We just constantly imagine colors and good vibes the whole time they are singing. The Seattle natives always bring a great show anywhere they go and it’s always great catching them.

Lukas Nelson & The Promise of the Real

The country star took the mainstage and only left great impressions to the audience. This was a set we didn’t realize we would enjoy so much but we did and it was great to say. The band was captivating and Nelson’s talent was mesmerizing. These guys know how to put on a great show and we’re glad we discovered them at the festival.

PARISALEXA

It was the first time we had the chance to catch this rising star from Seattle and we are so happy we did. Her silky voice captivated everyone standing at Axis immediately creating a new following for those who didn’t know her. She is a fresh of breath air and we can’t wait to see what the future brings for this young talent.

Tres Leches

We were excited to catch this local band as they took the stage at Central Saloon to a packed house. The trio was loud, intense, entertaining, and played great music. This was one of our favorite new finds from the festival and if you ever get a chance to check them out do not miss the chance.