Scene Point Blank has covered The Fest thoroughly since its inception in 2002. The site has personally sent attendees to Fests 6-13, then 17-18 in varied capacity, and we’ve back for The Fest 20. Oh, and we shared some remote memories when shutdowns kept it from happening in 2020, too.
It’s been a big part of our history. It’s been a big part of many people’s histories. It’s also still thriving and as vibrant as ever, so we don’t want this to sound like an obituary. The Fest 20 takes place at the end of October and we’re pumped to go there again.
So we caught up with a few bands to share their thoughts about it. We talk with Dead Bars, who have played at 6 Fests, to share what they enjoy (it’s a list), plus more in-depth interviews with Catbite, who have played Fest twice, to learn when a band becomes a “Fest veteran,” Captain Asshole, who only played once thus far, and finally we asked some rookies about what they expect and why they’re excited to play: Middle-Aged Queers.
The Fest 20 occurs in Gainesville, FL from Oct. 28-30, 2022.
Earlier this summer we shared interviews with Hot Water Music, No Trigger, MakeWar, and City Mouse about Fest too. Dead Bars’ Top Ten Non-Mainstage Bands To See At The Fest 20
Words: John (vocals) Photo: Marc Gaertner
The most beautiful part of Fest is discovering new bands you've never seen or heard of. Here are my Top Ten non-mainstage bands that I'm most excited to see, and why I think you should too! 1) Toys That Kill
We've played a lot with them over the years and can honestly say that they are the most fun. Go jump up-and-down and have some damn fun! 2) Folly
NJ Ska-core? I know it doesn't make any sense but when you experience Folly live, you'll get it! 3) DFMK
Passionate, fearless, and gritty. DFMK is one of the best live bands in the scene right now. 4) City Of Caterpillar
An influential band from my youth. They also just put out some new shit which is actually awesome. Looking forward to seeing them for the first time at Fest! 5) Rebuilder
Rebuilder have so much heart when they perform. Catchy, fun songs with a lot of energy. They are truly inspiring to watch live, and you will not be disappointed! 6) Wolf-Face
Who let the wolves out?! Just go to their show. 7) Scowl
They did a tour with Limp Bizkit this year so I kinda want to talk to them and see what the fuck that was all about. 8) Zeta
I don't do drugs but I think Zeta would be cool on drugs. 9) SheHeHe
Amazing band that makes you feel like you're part of the family at their live show. Don't miss it! 10) Lone Wolf
Don't know much about them other than we performed with them a few years back, and they were one of the tightest live bands I've ever seen. Stoked they are coming back to Fest!
Link Related: https://www.scenepointblank.com/features/music/fest-20-dead-bars-catbite-and-more
