The Popfest and Daniel Johnston
Although many fine artists played Athens Popfest, now that it's over I'm left with the impression that the best was saved for last. Or, at least, the most important. Daniel Johnston closed out the festival on Saturday night (8/11) and delivered a performance that exceeded my expectations.
Johnston began the show with a solo set before being joined on the 40 Watt stage by a guitarist. The audience was largely reverent throughout, with only a few drunken idiots making their presence known. Luckily it was the sort of crowd that asks said idiots to please quiet down and behave, thankyouverymuch. I can't remember such an experience since the Silver Jews tour opener at the same venue 17 months ago.
About halfway through the set Johnston was joined on stage by Casper & the Cookies, who acted as his band for the evening. They played a number of his "hits" including "Casper the Friendly Ghost," "Speeding Motorcycle," "Impossible Love," and "Sorry Entertainer." I didn't keep track of the setlist, but both Sloan from Southern Shelter and my friend Lance were there taping.
Daniel Johnston - Speeding Motorcycle
Daniel Johnston - Sorry Entertainer
For those in Athens, The Devil and Daniel Johnston will be showing all week at Athens Ciné downtown. Showtimes are online.
A huge thanks to the Popfest organizers for all their hard work!
posted by Rich at 11:38 PM
5 Comments:
Mega thanks for posting the Motorcycle MP3 -- I've had it in my head all day.
Nice meeting you, of course.
1:46 AM
Not a problem. :)
You too, random and odd as it was. Funny running into you with Ryan and Mike at The Grill too.
2:03 AM
my friends said there was some weird band with body parts painted on them who joined johnston on stage... i wish i'd gone knowing that casper & the cookies would get involved!si
9:41 AM
Oh, i would love to av been at that gig, love mr johnston !!!
11:03 AM
Photos are up on my site, great show. Grill was good :)Yeah there was a great vibe during Daniel Johnston's set, everyone was in awe I believe. I know I didn't take many photos because I was just sitting there in front of him staring and soaking it in. There was also an actual response for an encore, too bad there wasn't one. But I believe the set he played was perfect.
12:35 AM
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