When it comes to festivals, there are few places that do it better than Suwannee. The pristine, magical music park and campground located in Live Oak, Florida is truly an oasis for music lovers and musicians alike. Despite having hosted major acts such as the Allman Brothers, Widespread Panic, moe., Bob Weir & RatDog, and Trey Anastasio Band, Suwannee festivals maintain a distinct, intimate community vibe that sets them apart from other events. As we approach the 7th annual AURA Music & Arts Festival, coming up March 3-5, let’s delve into the musical highlights that make this year’s festival a can’t-miss event.
Highlights from the 2015 AURA Music Festival
The Disco Biscuits
When the jamtronica pioneers return to headline AURA for a second consecutive year, it’s all systems go. The Biscuits are back at the top of their game and attendees are sure to be in for a wild ride. From intricate grooves to monster jams, psychedelic interludes to funky breakdowns, the sky’s the limit with a Biscuits show. Get ready to dance into another stratosphere, propelled by blood-pumping synths and extravagant lasers.
Thievery Corporation
One of the most unique acts on the lineup, Thievery Corp’s eclectic world music defies genre boundaries. Drawing from a massive range of styles such as samba, reggae, ambient/downtempo, psychedelic rock, and jazz, their show is a multi-sensory experience that constantly explores new territory using instruments like the sitar. Bandmembers are known for shedding their shoes and sometimes other articles of clothing and even jumping on stage props during the high-energy performance.
Snarky Puppy
It’s no surprise this 17-piece ensemble has won a Grammy and received worldwide critical acclaim. With an upbeat, funky approach to classical jazz, their music is complex, yet accessible. By fusing tight, intricate arrangements with loose improv, Snarky Puppy creates a delicate balance that sets them apart from any other act today.
The Werks
The Ohio-based funktet has been on fire since embarking on their recent TWERK Tour with Twiddle this past fall, but they’ve been a major player on the scene for far longer. A Werks show is a straight up dance party, complete with high-energy beats, psychedelic shredding, and funky basslines. Get ready to get down.
Turkuaz
Turkuaz’s latest studio release, Digitonium, has propelled the band to new, well-deserved heights. The 9-piece powerfunk army’s style draws from past eras to create a melting pot of music that fuses 60s-style funk and 80s dance music with a modern, imaginative approach. Their live show is a force to be reckoned with.
Other noteworthy highlights of this year’s AURA lineup include ALO, theNEWDEAL, The Heavy Pets Tribute to the 80s with Natalie Cressman & Jennifer Hartswick, The Main Squeeze, Particle, American Babies, and Pink Talking Fish. One thing’s for sure – this lineup has a little something for everybody. Get tickets to AURA Music & Arts Festival here.
