Outside Lands, a music festival celebrating its 15th year in San Francisco this summer, is set to attract up to 90,000 music fans. The festival features over 150 performances, including many lesser-known bands that have gained a billion streams on Spotify. To help navigate the lineup, we’ve selected 13 acts that are worth listening to.
Ethel Cain, a singer-songwriter from Pittsburgh, will be performing early on Friday. Her music, influenced by religion and family, as well as the darker aspects of the American South, is haunting and perfect for the setting of Golden Gate Park.
Yaya Bey, a Brooklyn R&B songwriter, will also perform early on Friday. Her music tells stories of anguish, desire, and resilience, with a focus on centering Black women’s experiences.
Janelle Monae, a highly acclaimed artist known for her idiosyncratic android funk-pop sound, will be the penultimate act on the Lands End stage on Friday. Her unique style and captivating performances have garnered her critical acclaim and Grammy nominations.
Interpol, a post-punk band from Manhattan, will perform on Friday evening. Known for their gloomy masterpiece album “Turn On the Bright Lights,” the band will be playing the record in its entirety.
Wednesday, a band from North Carolina, has been hailed as one of the best indie rock bands around. Lead singer Karly Hartzman’s raw and captivating vocals, combined with the band’s alt-country and shoegaze sound, make them a must-see act on Saturday.
Daniel Avery, a British producer known for his tasteful techno sound, will offer a sonically adventurous set in the SOMA Tent on Saturday.
Lana Del Rey, a chameleon-like pop artist, will bring her ornate and sensitive style to the Twin Peaks stage on Saturday.
Fake Fruit, a Bay Area band, has been generating buzz for their mix of post-punk, Osees-style fervor, and Pavement-esque noodling. Their early Sunday time slot provides an opportunity to catch their energetic performance.
Gabriels, a band known for their mix of gospel, R&B, and funk, will bring their infectious music to the Sutro Stage on Sunday.
Beabadoobee, a rising artist, will be performing at the festival as well. Known for her indie and bedroom pop sound, she offers a refreshing and youthful take on music.
Overall, Outside Lands promises to be a diverse and exciting festival, featuring both established artists and up-and-coming acts worth discovering.