Last night at NYC's Bowery Electric, CMJ held a special event to announce its initial lineup for this year's music marathon, which runs from October 21 - 25 in New York City. Bands to check out at this year's festival include Cold War Kids, Pro Era, Gerard Way, The Kills, Hunters, Slowdive, Twin Peaks, Lee Bains III and The Glory Fires, Protomartyr, Luluc, King Gizzard And The Lizard Wizard, and The Wytches. To commemorate the event, Juan Wauters and Porches each played a set for a crowd mostly of music industry people.
Uruguay native Juan Wauters played a set of acoustic-driven tunes with narrative lyrics that were both humorous and heartfelt. The mini-stage was full of lamps that flickered on and off, adding to an atmosphere that felt like he was performing in your living room. Having performed at the 4 Knots Festival earlier this summer, some people had recognized him and sang along to a few tunes. Flutist Amanda Rodi joined Juan onstage for a few songs, which added to a very chilled-out set that everyone enjoyed.
Porches followed up Juan's set with a burst of energetic, synth-driven rock that had the crowd's attention. Singer Ronnie Mystery led the band through a mix of old and new songs that contained a new wave sound, reminiscent of Duran Duran at times. He commented that he didn't feel himself in the camo jumpsuit he was wearing, but he certainly seemed at ease with his effortless vocal delivery. This is a band that's just beneath the radar, but their songs are catchy enough to attract some major attention at this year's festival.
Many more artists will be added in the coming weeks. For further details and updates, check the CMJ Music Marathon Website. Badges are on sale on the CMJ official website. Stay tuned to Zumic for further coverage of this year's festival.
