DOWNRIGHT GROOVY
Last Saturday, California-based record label Burger Records dropped by New York to hold their first annual Burger Beach Bash. The festival was located at an ideal New York spot, Coney Island, adding even more charm to an already charming scene. Specifically, the festival took place at MCU Park, home of the Brooklyn Cyclones. Audience members had the choice of sitting in the stadium, or getting up close in personal on the baseball field, where the stage was set up.
SATURDAY 06/18/16 – BROOKLYN, NEW YORK
During the day, festival-goers were able to lean over the railing at MCU and watch the Mermaid Parade in between sets. Some of the colorfully dressed participants even attended the festival—I was able to photograph and converse with a few during my coverage of the event on Highlark’s Snapchat. At night, the neon lights of Coney Island sparkled and glowed vibrantly as the bands jammed out.
A key participant in this year’s Burger Beach Bash was the eccentric psych rock group The Mystery Lights. I was disappointed that their set was so early in the evening, as a full crowd had not shown up yet to enjoy the killer show that the band put on. However, the fans that were there got the privilege of moving their bodies to the boys’ vicious guitar riffs as well as frontman Mike Brandon’s crooning vocals. Seeing The Mystery Lights is always a trip, and I was especially pleased to hear their latest song, “Follow Me Home,” live. The set left my friends and I feeling evil—in the best, sexiest way possible.
Another significant artist on the festival’s lineup was Har Mar Superstar, a long time favorite. The performance occurred later in the evening, with fans screaming Har Mar’s name and requesting songs. The inclusion of horns made this set particularly jazzy and unique. As the audience jumped around to Har Mar’s uplifting music, he busted a move or two himself. His ensemble, which included flashy pants, sunglasses, and a headscarf, truly added flavor to the evening.
The first annual Burger Beach Bash was indeed a success. The overall energy of the show was downright groovy. Other highlights of the night included Mr. Twin Sister, Fucked Up, and GZA. These acts all contributed to what was a variegated lineup, including performances from many genres of music. Whether dancing on the floor or chilling out on a tapestry, everyone involved had a blast.
[+] BURGER BEACH BASH 2016
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Photos © Henry Rodgers. All Rights Reserved.
