Who to see at Pitchfork Music Festival 2024.

Jul 19

This July brings the nineteenth edition of Pitchfork Music Festival to Chicago’s Union Park, featuring an especially eclectic lineup that spans in-demand electronic acts, alternative rock heroes, and icons from the cutting edge of pop and R&B. While the headliners’ indie credibility might be slightly more subdued compared to last year’s festival, the wide array of artists ensures an engaging and dynamic live music experience that will captivate all attendees. From the return of legends like Grandmaster Flash and Unwound, to rare sets from Jai Paul, Jamie xx, Alanis Morissette, and the first-ever U.S. performance of jazz innovator Nala Sinephro, there will be no shortage of unmissable shows this weekend.

Friday

ML Buch (Green Stage, 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM)

Born Marie Louise Buch, Berlin-based Danish composer, producer, guitarist, and vocalist ML Buch is renowned for her harmonious blend of soft, ethereal sounds with harsh, electronic elements. This distinctive style is best showcased on her 2020 album, Skinned. If the design style Frutiger Aero were an album, this would be it: nostalgically futuristic. ML Buch captures the essence of how robotic and out-of-body being human can feel in this technological age.

Her most recent album, Suntub, released in 2023, takes a more down-to-earth approach, incorporating indie rock sounds while maintaining her unique sonic identity. Having already performed at the 2021 Pitchfork Music Festival in Paris, this will be her first-ever performance in Chicago. Don’t miss the opportunity to see her live on Friday afternoon.

Doss (Blue Stage, 4:00 PM – 4:45 PM)

Hailing from New York City, Doss is a DJ and producer known for her unique ability to blend disparate sounds from across the electronic dance music spectrum into sweet and dreamy tracks. She has collaborated with notable artists such as SOPHIE, Lady Gaga, A.G. Cook, Eartheater, and Caroline Polachek. These collaborations include remixes of Eartheater’s “High Tide” and Lady Gaga’s “Enigma,” where she infuses her upbeat dance-pop sound into the original tracks. However, Doss’ own releases are equally compelling. Though she has yet to release a full album, her discography is far from minor. Her EP 4 New Hit Songs and its companion 4 New Hit Songs Remixes* are must-listens, showcasing her talent for creating immersive and infectious tracks. Be sure to catch her set for a fun and vibrant mid-afternoon dance session.

billy woods & Kenny Segal (Green Stage, 4:15 PM – 5:10 PM)

Fresh off the release of Maps, one of the decade’s best rap albums and #12 on Firebird’s best 20 albums of 2023 list, rapper/producer duo billy woods and Kenny Segal are set to deliver a powerful performance on Friday afternoon that showcases their exceptional synergy. billy woods’ commanding, erudite verses bridge decades, borders, and cultures, delving into themes of personal struggle and societal critique with depth and complexity. Kenny Segal’s wizardly production blends diverse sonic elements into cohesive, atmospheric soundscapes, providing the perfect backdrop for woods’ lyrics. Listening to Maps feels like being in rapid transit across the world, with fragments of resplendent imagery, profound one-liners, and rich samples rushing past. The album’s exploration of travel, displacement, and the search for home is both vibrant and haunting, capturing scenes of joy and foreboding dread. Their performance this weekend is an absolute must-see.

100 gecs (Green Stage, 6:15 PM – 7:15 PM)

The chaotic duo 100 gecs, composed of Dylan Brady and Laura Les, are pioneering figures in hyperpop, known for their absurdity, rampant genre-blending, and innovation. Dylan Brady, recognized for his unique blend of rock, electronic, industrial, and trap, has produced and written for artists like The Neighbourhood, Charli XCX, and Dorian Electra. Laura Les, a producer, singer, and songwriter, gained viral fame with her hit “Haunted.”

Their most recent release, 10,000 gecs, is elevated inanity, with songs about an amphibian on a surface, a post-dentist visit celebration, and being on the FBI’s most-wanted list. These high-energy tracks push the boundaries established by their debut album 1000 gecs and their first EP 100 gecs. Having experienced their latest album in concert last year, there’s no doubt that Friday’s performance will be filled with dancing, sweat, and frenzied fun.

Sudan Archives (Blue Stage, 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM)

Sudan Archives, the stage name of Brittney Denise Parks, is known for her blend of electronica and violin loops into her signature brand of R&B. Her latest album, 2022’s Natural Brown Prom Queen, was released to critical acclaim, praised for its exploration of themes of identity, self-discovery, and empowerment. The album’s tracks navigate the complexities of cultural heritage, love, and resilience, often reflecting on the intersections of race and womanhood.

Sudan Archives’ exceptional musicianship and captivating charisma make every performance of hers an absolute delight. At Pitchfork Music Festival Paris in 2022, she was electrifying, instantly capturing the attention of those who had never listened to her before. She seamlessly integrates classical violin techniques with contemporary sounds, creating a dynamic and immersive performance, and her ability to connect with the audience through raw energy and intricate musical arrangements will make you sure to walk away from her set as a new fan.

Jeff Rosenstock (Blue Stage, 7:45 PM – 8:30 PM)

Wind down on Friday by getting riled up with Jeff Rosenstock. This New York-born punk and indie rock artist’s performance is one to look forward to. Having previously been a part of acts like The Arrogant Sons of Bitches, Bomb The Music Industry!, and Antarctigo Vespucci, Rosenstock has left an indelible mark on the DIY artist scene, especially throughout the Midwest.

Rosenstock recently released the album HELLMODE, which ranked at #18 in Firebird Staff’s top 20 albums of 2023. The album is packed with punchy punk rock tracks that will get anybody moving. Known for his staunch anti-capitalist and DIY ideology, Rosenstock went a bit bigger for this release. Though HELLMODE is a more polished version of his sound, it doesn’t detract from his more pared-down, fiery songs either. Be sure to catch his anticipated performance of “Festival Song” this Friday evening.

Jai Paul (Red Stage, 7:25 PM – 8:25 PM)

Jai Paul, a British electronic musician known for his enigmatic presence and genre-defying music, is set to deliver a rare and highly anticipated performance at Pitchfork this weekend. The excitement surrounding his live shows is heightened by the context of his 2013 album leak, which was initially an unauthorized release under the title Jai Paul. This collection of unfinished demos, later officially released in 2019 as Leak 04-13 (Bait Ones), turned into a cult classic but also led to his prolonged absence from the music industry. Besides the leak and a pair of singles also released in 2019, Paul hasn’t released new music and has only begun to perform live as of his debut at Coachella in April 2023, making this performance even more special. Be sure not to miss this chance to see one of the most intriguing and elusive artists of the past decade in action.

Saturday

L’Rain (Red Stage, 1:45 PM – 2:25 PM)

For a wonderfully weird start to your Saturday, be sure to check out L’Rain, the musical project of Taja Cheek. An artist who has carved out a distinctive niche in the experimental and avant-garde art pop scene, L’Rain is known for her psychedelic, intricate, and innovative use of heavy sampling, pushing boundaries and defying easy categorization. L’Rain’s music often explores themes of loss, memory, and personal transformation, drawing from her experiences growing up in Brooklyn. Her latest album, 2023’s I Killed Your Dog, takes a turn toward the soulful, offering a more straightforward yet equally compelling listening experience. Her ever-evolving live performances remain as captivating and dynamic as ever, promising an engaging and unforgettable set.

Kara Jackson (Green Stage, 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM)

Kara Jackson, an award-winning poet, singer-songwriter, and producer from Oak Park, Illinois, draws inspiration from the American South and her experiences growing up in Chicago. Jackson is a remarkably accomplished poet, having won the Literary Award at the Louder Than a Bomb 2018 finals, been named the U.S. National Youth Poet Laureate in 2019, published the chapbook Bloodstone Cowboy, and featured her works in numerous poetry publications like Poetry.

Her music is equally impressive, with her first full-length album, 2023’s Why Does the Earth Give Us People to Love?, named Best New Music by Pitchfork, further cementing her reputation as a multi-talented artist. Jackson’s music, reflective of her poetic genius, offers a melodic and nostalgic folk sound that resonates deeply with listeners. Spend the afternoon swaying to Jackson’s sweet tunes and experience the lyrical beauty she brings to the stage.

feeble little horse (Red Stage, 3:20 PM – 4:10 PM)

As the band themselves put it, if you’re into “Pittsburgh guitar music; available for funerals, wakes and any equestrian events,” feeble little horse is a must-see on Saturday late afternoon. The band recently returned from their hiatus announced in June 2023, and this performance in Chicago marks their comeback. Released in 2023, their second full-length album Girl with Fish blends feedback-laden melodies, glitch-infused rhythms, and indie rock, creating an unpredictable sonic experience. Don’t horse around—make sure to check them out on Saturday afternoon.

Wednesday (Green Stage, 4:15 PM – 5:10 PM)

Fresh off of a breakthrough year with the release of Rat Saw God in 2023, which also appeared at #9 on Firebird’s top 20 albums of 2023, Wednesday’s set is sure to be one of the most gripping of the entire weekend. Fronted by Karly Hartzman, whose vivid and at-times sardonic lyrics capture the burned-out spirit of Appalachian life, the Asheville, NC-based band blends alt-country and slacker rock into storms of noise. Driven by evocative pedal steel courtesy of Xandy Chelmis and twangy, overdriven guitar work from MJ Lenderman, a solo star in his own right, the landscape of sound that Wednesday creates live is unlike any other. Their intense, emotionally resonant performances have attracted a significant following and are a must-see this weekend.

De La Soul (Red Stage, 5:15 PM – 6:10 PM)

Since the release of their debut album, 3 Feet High and Rising, in 1989, De La Soul has been a groundbreaking force in hip-hop. Known for their eclectic sampling and incorporation of psychedelic elements, they reshaped the genre with a uniquely positive, bright, and humorous sound that stood out during hip-hop’s golden age. Over the past year, the group has navigated the loss of member David “Trugoy the Dove” Jolicoeur, whose passing in early 2023 marked a tragic chapter in their storied career. Despite the loss of Trugoy, De La Soul has continued to captivate audiences with their electrifying performances, honoring his memory and the group’s enduring influence. Shortly after Trugoy’s passing, De La Soul’s music became available on streaming services for the first time, revitalizing their fanbase and introducing them to a new generation of fans. Be sure to catch them on Saturday to hear one of hip-hop’s most cherished groups perform their legendary catalog.

Jessie Ware (Green Stage, 6:15 PM – 7:15 PM)

If you’re ready to shake it until your pearls fall off, prepare to be captivated by Jessie Ware’s sultry, elegant blend of soulful, powerhouse vocals, disco glamor, and sophisticated, layered production. Ware’s last two albums, 2020’s What’s Your Pleasure? and 2023’s That! Feels Good!, are both steeped in the history of disco, funk, and soul music, but they transcend simple revivalism. The tracks unfold luxuriously, with production so impressively precise yet naturally groovy and loose that the sonic influences feel completely organic. Ware sounds completely at home in this sound—her set might be the closest thing to the ecstasy of Studio 54 you’ll see all year.

Carly Rae Jepsen (Red Stage, 7:25 PM – 8:25 PM)

With her dynamic blend of synthpop, funk, and disco into infectious dance-pop tracks, Carly Rae Jepsen’s set is sure to be enchanting. Since her breakout hit “Call Me Maybe” in 2011, Jepsen has built a reputation for delivering high-energy tracks that frequently approach pop perfection. Her 2015 album E·MO·TION is now considered a 2010s pop classic, and her subsequent albums, especially her latest, 2023’s The Loveliest Time, continue to incorporate shimmering synths and emotional depth into a diverse range of danceable tracks. As one of pop’s most consistent artists, Jepsen’s live performances are renowned for their engaging stage presence and ability to get the crowd dancing, and her set will most definitely carry on the ecstatic energy of Jessie Ware’s set.

Unwound (Blue Stage, 7:45 PM – 8:30 PM)

Even though Carly Rae Jepsen’s set unfortunately overlaps with theirs, don’t miss the rare chance to see Unwound, a post-hardcore legend. After a hiatus of over 20 years, Unwound’s return to the stage is nothing short of monumental—their last tour was in 2002, making this a long-awaited reunion for fans and a must-see event for newcomers. Unwound is an essential band in the post-hardcore scene, known for their intense, angular guitar work and complex, dynamic compositions that push the boundaries of the genre. Albums like Fake Train and Leaves Turn Inside You are cornerstones of their discography, showcasing their ability to blend aggression with intricate, experimental sounds. Their influence can be seen across the landscape of alternative and punk music, and this is a unique opportunity to experience a band that has left an indelible mark on the genre.

Jamie xx (Green Stage, 8:30 PM – 9:45 PM)

British electronic musician Jamie xx is set to take Pitchfork’s Saturday headlining slot, bringing with him the excitement of his newly announced album, In Waves, which is set to release on September 20, 2024. This marks his first solo album in nearly nine years, following the widely acclaimed, Mercury Prize-winning In Colour in 2015. As a founding member of The xx, Jamie xx played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s minimalist, atmospheric sound that would come to influence much of 2010s alt-pop and R&B, earning the band numerous accolades and a devoted following.

As a solo artist and DJ, Jamie xx has been known for his ability to seamlessly blend genres of dance music from around the world, creating vibrant, eclectic soundscapes with tastefully restrained production, evocative vocal samples, varied percussive styles, and deep, textured bass. His headlining set is sure to be a highlight of the festival, offering a mix of new tracks from In Waves, career-spanning classics, and a total grab bag of other tracks from throughout dance music’s history.

Sunday

Joanna Sternberg (Red Stage, 1:45 PM – 2:25 PM)

Joanna Sternberg is set to deliver a gem of a performance, bringing their unique blend of folk, jazz, and indie influences to the stage. Their latest album, I’ve Got Me (2023), has garnered widespread acclaim, including being named Best New Music by Pitchfork. Sternberg’s music is characterized by deeply personal lyrics, gentle melodies, and a raw, emotive vocal style that resonates with listeners on a profound level. Their live performances are known for their intimate, heartfelt atmosphere, creating a connection with the audience that is both powerful and moving. Don’t miss the chance to experience Joanna Sternberg’s captivating, playful, and strikingly honest performance this weekend.

Nala Sinephro (Blue Stage, 2:45 PM – 3:30 PM)

Debuting her first performance in the States, Caribbean-Belgian jazz artist Nala Sinephro produces ethereal, ambient sounds with her pedal harp, synthesizer, keyboards, and piano. After spending months in Martinique during the COVID-19 pandemic, she developed an interest in field recordings, which she seamlessly integrates into her music. Sinephro’s sound evokes the tranquility of a spring morning walk through fields. Her debut album, Space 1.8, features eight tracks that blend dystopian soundscapes with traditional jazz. If that sounds up your alley, Sinephro is someone you don’t want to miss.

Model/Actriz (Red Stage, 3:20 PM – 4:10 PM)

Model/Actriz is set to explode Pitchfork’s Red Stage on Sunday afternoon with their electrifying blend of dance-punk, noise rock, and no wave. Known for their intense live performances, the Brooklyn-based band creates a visceral experience that grips audiences from start to finish. Their latest release, Dogsbody, has been met with critical acclaim for its raw power and innovative soundscapes. Frontman Cole Haden is notorious for his wild behavior on stage, often venturing into the crowd and creating a chaotic atmosphere. Haden winds among the audience, climbs, pushes around, and engages in unhinged staring contests, shattering the traditional performer-audience dynamic. Combined with the band’s relentless rhythms and jagged guitars, this show is sure to be a thrilling, unpredictable ride.

Jessica Pratt (Green Stage, 4:15 PM – 5:10 PM)

Los Angeles-based folk musician Jessica Pratt is set to bewitch audiences this weekend with her enchanting, ethereal folk music. Her latest album, Here in the Pitch, released in May 2024, has garnered significant critical acclaim and is characterized by Pratt’s unmistakable, haunting voice floating behind sparse, echoey instrumentation, creating a hypnotic atmosphere. Some tracks incorporate subtle bossa nova rhythms, adding a delicate flavor to her dreamlike soundscapes, and the vocal melodies retain the wistfulness of classic early 60s Brill Building pop songwriting. Here in the Pitch explores themes of melancholy and introspection, crafting a strangely timeless sound that transposes feelings of the past into the present. Pratt’s ability to convey deep emotion through her delicate voice and expressive instrumentation makes her a standout artist and a must-see this weekend.

Grandmaster Flash (Red Stage, 5:15 PM – 6:10 PM)

Grandmaster Flash, a true hip-hop pioneer and one of the most significant artists from the early days of the genre, is set to deliver a blast of a performance at Pitchfork. Flash revolutionized DJ techniques, introducing scratching and mixing innovations that became foundational to all of hip-hop. He founded Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, and one of their most iconic tracks, “The Message,” released in 1982, brought political and social commentary to the forefront of hip-hop. The song’s stark portrayal of urban life and systemic issues marked a significant departure from the party anthems of the time, laying the groundwork for all future political hip-hop. Grandmaster Flash’s live performances are renowned for their high energy, and his recent participation in the 2023 Grammy Awards’ 50th-anniversary celebration of hip-hop highlighted his enduring influence on the genre. Don’t miss the chance to witness a legend in action: Flash’s set will be both a nostalgic journey and a showcase of his profound impact on hip-hop culture.

Mannequin Pussy (Blue Stage, 5:15 PM – 6:00 PM)

Mannequin Pussy, consisting of members Missy, Maxine, Kaleen, and Bear, is an indie rock and punk rock band going 10 years strong. Originally forming as a two-piece in 2010, they released their debut full-length album, Gypsy Pervert, in 2013. Over the years, they have released four albums, with their latest, I Got Heaven, earning the title of Best New Music by Pitchfork upon its release in March of 2024. After their previous album blended pop-punk elements into their more hardcore sound, I Got Heaven represents a significant evolution in their sound. The album seamlessly combines abrasive, scorn-filled hardcore punk with occasional provocative pop sensibilities and overdriven riffs reminiscent of power pop. Tracks like “OK? OK! OK? OK!” and “Loud Bark” showcase the band’s ability to balance vulnerability and intensity, exploring themes of desire, loneliness, and societal expectations with poignant lyrics and powerful instrumentation.

Brittany Howard (Red Stage, 7:25 PM – 8:25 PM)

Former Alabama Shakes, Thunderbitch, and Bermuda Triangle member Brittany Howard, now a solo artist since 2019, is an American rock legend from Alabama. Howard is a 16-time Grammy-nominated artist and a Grammy winner for Best Rock Song with her hit “Stay High,” from her debut album, Jaime, released in 2019. In February of this year, she released her second album, What Now. This album showcases her thrillingly expansive and vibrant sound, blending elements of funk rock, psychedelia, techno, soft jazz, and new age to create a rich and delicately textured musical realm. Howard’s concerts are known for their soulful and powerful performances, blending high-energy rock with poignant ballads. Don’t miss the chance to see her on Sunday evening.

Alanis Morissette (Green Stage, 8:30 PM – 9:45 PM)

Does this iconic singer even need an introduction? Alanis Morissette, the award-winning alternative rock singer, is renowned for her impactful songs that delve into struggle, healing, and empowerment. Her critically acclaimed album Jagged Little Pill features chart-topping hits like “Ironic” and “You Oughta Know,” and its popularity even inspired a successful musical. Her most recent album, Such Pretty Forks in the Road, was released in mid-2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Morissette’s contributions to film soundtracks include the iconic “Uninvited” from the 1998 film City of Angels, as well as tracks for The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, and Dogma, in which she also appeared. Her acting credits add another layer to her versatile career. Only a multi-page essay could capture the entirety of her lyrical genius and musical impact. Don’t miss the chance to see this trailblazing alt-rock legend perform in Chicago.

Sha Frasier & Taylor Pate