Ohana Fest 2023 day two: a harmonious soiree of musical brilliance from as many genres as possible in one day at the beach.
Day two of Ohana Fest 2023 delivered a captivating blend of musical talent, heartfelt melodies, and unforgettable performances. Headlined by the legendary Eddie Vedder, the day was an auditory journey through a diverse range of genres and emotions.
Ayron Jones was an acoustic revelation. The day kicked off with Ayron Jones gracing the stage for an intimate set, playing an acoustic guitar accompanied by just a bass player. Jones’s soulful vocals and virtuosic guitar skills shone brightly, captivating the early festivalgoers with songs that traversed blues, rock, and soul. His raw, emotive rendition of “Purple Rain” was nothing short of breathtaking, setting the tone for the day.
Shame, the London-based post-punk quintet, took the stage by storm with a ferocious set that oozed raw energy and attitude. Their explosive performance ignited the crowd as frontman Charlie Steen thrashed about the stage with charismatic abandon. With a relentless attitude, Shame brought a jolt of punk-rock intensity that resonated deeply with the enthusiastic crowd. Anyone who has been paying attention to the tidal wave of post-punk rock ‘n’ roll coming out of the UK, knows this band is on deck to make a statement.
Charley Crockett, the Master of Texas Blues, with his dapper attire and a voice as smooth as aged whiskey, transported the audience to the heart of Texas. His set was a mesmerizing blend of country, blues, and folk, filled with tales of love, loss, and redemption. Crockett’s renditions of Texas-tinged country songs dripped with emotional authenticity, leaving an indelible mark on the Ohana Fest.Lucius graced the stage with their ethereal harmonies and a magnetic stage presence that held the audience in rapt attention. The indie-pop duo’s intricate vocal interplay was spellbinding as they weaved through their setlist. Lucius’s performance was a celestial experience that reminded us of the transcendent power of pop music.
Groove enthusiasts Goose injected an infectious dose of funk, rock, and improvisation into the festival atmosphere. Their set was a rollercoaster of euphoria with jams that had the crowd grooving uncontrollably. Tracks like “California Magic” and “Arcadia” showcased their musical prowess and left everyone in a blissful trance, eagerly anticipating what was to come.
The War On Drugs brought their signature blend of indie rock and dreamy textures to Ohana Fest, delivering a mesmerizing performance that felt like a journey through sonic landscapes. Songs like “Under the Pressure” and “Red Eyes” bathed the audience in a sea of euphoria, with Adam Granduciel’s guitar work taking center stage, echoing through the hearts of all in attendance.
The Chicks graced the stage with a powerful and empowering set that celebrated their enduring legacy. Their harmonies were as pristine as ever, and their songs, including “Gaslighter” and “Wide Open Spaces,” carried profound messages of resilience and unity. The crowd erupted with cheers and applause as The Chicks delivered a performance that transcended music, becoming a symbol of strength and empowerment.
The living legend Eddie Vedder closed out day two was none other than the iconic Eddie Vedder, who took the stage to a thunderous ovation. Vedder’s set was a masterclass in storytelling and emotional connection. With his acoustic guitar in hand, he delivered a soul-stirring performance that spanned his illustrious career, from Pearl Jam classics like “Better Man” and “Not for You” to covers of George Harrison’s “Isn’t it a Pity,” The Beatles’ “Hey Jude” (with Lucius), the Pretenders’ “Precious,” the Cure’s “Just Like Heaven,” and U2’s “One.” The crowd sang along with every word to “Better Man” (after the “Vedder man” forgot the lyrics), their voices merging into a beautiful chorus of unity. Vedder’s heartfelt rendition of “Fallout Today” was a poignant reminder of the power of music to inspire change and bring people together. Vedder closed out the night with a hard-rocking version Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World”
Day two of Ohana Fest 2023 was an unforgettable journey through the depths of musical artistry, from Ayron Jones’s acoustic intimacy to Eddie Vedder’s legendary presence. Each act brought its unique flavor, making it a day that showcased the diverse tapestry of the musical world. The festival lived up to its name, creating a sense of togetherness and belonging that resonated deeply with all in attendance. As the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, it was clear that Ohana Fest had once again succeeded in bringing music lovers together in perfect harmony.
