Coachella Line Up Announced

It's that time of year again.  All the big music festivals are being announced and planned.  This time last year I was amped about Coachella because I planned on being there.  I am not making that same mistake this year, because that was one of the big letdowns of 2010.  I did get to see Will. I. Am. deejay and witnessed a very energetic Major Lazer set.  This is besides the point.  The point is that the Coachella line up is out, and I actually don't think it's as good as last year.  I had heard some talk of Pearl Jam headlining but apparently that was just talk.  For their BIG ROCK BAND the organizers have picked Kings of Leon.  Really? Kings of Leon.  They are playing the main stage the first night.  Arcade Fire is will be the second, and Kanye West and The Strokes the third.  Really?  Kings of Leon?  What also annoys me is that The Black Keys are also playing on Friday and Kings of Leon have top billing.  Their new album has been greatly panned by critics as the sell out of all sell out records.  The Black Keys have been on every top ten list.  The Black Keys also just seem like they embody the spirit of Coachella much more than Kings of Leon.  Maybe 6 years ago Kings of Leon would be the right fit but now I just feel like this could be played at Madison Square Garden.

Smaller acts to be interested in are Erykah Badu,  The Kills (weren't they there last year too?), The New Pornagraphers, Sleigh Bells, Nas and Damien (they rocked it at North Coast in Chicago), Scissor Sisters, Best Coast, Cold War Kids, Cee-Lo, Delta Spirit, Flogging Molly and The Chemical Brothers.  One of the most exciting with the ability to be the most disappointing?  Ms. Lauryn Hill.  We all know my obsession.  I've also heard that everywhere she;s been showing up she's been at least two hours late and had no energy.  I almost would rather not see her and not have my heart broke,

Another small disappointment is the absence of Cake.  I was almost sure that with all the attentions their new album has been getting that they would be there for sure.  Maybe they are saving themselves for Lollapalooza.