10 Acts you shouldn’t miss at Capitol Hill Block Party 2016

It’s that time of year again where we get to just cruise on down to Seattle’s Capitol Hill area for the annual block party. This one is a special occasion as it’s the 20th anniversary since it originally took place. The lineup is as impressive as ever including world famous acts as well as local favorites. This is one of my favorite events of the summer as all you need is inside where you’re going which makes it very stress free. The restaurants and bars are still open so if you feel like grabbing a slice of pizza and a beer at Big Mario’s between sets, you can do it.

Seattle’s own Odesza will be there closing Saturday night in a much anticipated show, while electro-pop sensations Chvrches close Sunday night, along with indie Washed Out playing Friday night. Other favorites STRFKR, MO, Crystal Castles, The Joy Formidable, Tourist, GoldLink, Car Seat Headrest, Thunderpussy, Porter Ray, and Phoebe Ryan are set to play over the forecasted sunny weekend.

Below are some sets you shouldn’t miss while you’re there!

 

Iska Dhaaf

The collaboration of Nathan Quiroga and Benjamin Verdoes that started in 2011 as Iska Dhaaf (that means “let it go”) ,quickly transformed into a band who became known for their live performances.  They released their second LP ‘The Wanting Creature’ this year and are continuing their tour in support. A must see!

The Grizzled Mighty

Local favorites will be at Neumos stage at 9pm on Saturday night.  Ryan Granger and Faustine Hudson will be playing tunes that will be making you rock out so you’ve been warned!  Take a listen to their latest LP ‘Closed Knuckle Jaw’.

Tangerine

Our favorite Seattle trio will be taking over the Vera Stage on Saturday letting us into their pop-rock infused sound.  Their EP ‘Sugar Teeth’ is been playing in my car since February and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.  Check them out and if you’re going to The End’s Summer Camp catch them there!

Cardiknox

The duo formed in 2013 has already received attention from the music world and is soon to be joining Betty Who on her tour.  Their debut ‘Portrait’ includes “Wild Child”, and “On My Way”, couple of my fav summer tunes.

SassyBlack

I first noticed Black when she was performing with her group THEESatisfaction and I was immediately captivated by her psychedelic, soulful voice.  The songwriter/singer/producer based in Seattle will be on the Vera Stage on Sunday playing songs from her ‘No More Weak Dates’ LP.

Lisa Prank

Robin Edwards’ solo project is worth to check out as she delivers her set with an electric guitar and a drum machine alone on stage.  I personally want to see if she’ll be wearing the PRANK crown on her head as it will make my day.  Her ‘Adult Teen’ LP includes some of our other favorite Seattle artists as well and it’s an absolute gem.

Dude York

Seattle based band via Walla Walla will be playing their rock tunes in the dark dungeon known as the Cha Cha stage.  Peter Richards, Andrew Hall, and Claire England will be energizing us for the rest of the day.  “Lose Control/Love Is”, their latest releases are earworms and I dig the album photo so much.

SGF

I was lucky enough to catch Sister Girlfriend last year with some friends and I always bring them up when I get a chance.  The energy in the room was great and the sound magical.  I liked dancing around to the pop beat and that impeccable sax that adds so much personality to the live set.  Check them out on Sunday on the Barboza stage, you won’t be sad, or mad.

Wild Powwers

Another local band that release an amazing record that I enjoy hearing over and over again. ‘Hugs and Kisses and Other Things’ is explosive and pumps your veins with pure adrenaline, must catch live this weekend.

Maiah Manser

Manser moved to Seattle in 2011 to expand her music horizons and what we got was a great artist in return.  She’s been working on her debut EP with Buddy Ross and we can’t wait to finally hear it all.  She is electric and her performances are fueled with energy that carries on with the audience after their departure.  Rising star that you must check out!