2012 Nelsonville Music Festival

Ohio’s Nelsonville Music Festival is fast becoming the highlight of my yearly concert-going. Produced by Stuart’s Opera House, the three day festival once again took place at the Historic Village of Robbins Crossing at Hocking College. A relaxed atmosphere, friendly organizers, and comparatively low ticket prices all contribute to the festival’s charm. But music is the main feature and last weekend’s array of acts offered something for fans of every taste.

The 2012 lineup was a fantastic blend of veteran musicians (including Michael Hurley, Charles Bradley, Jorma Kaukonen, Roky Erickson, and Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry) and current pop/rock acts (such as Kurt Vile, Dark Dark Dark, Andrew Bird, Dawes, and M. Ward). Two of this year’s best performances were side projects by members of legendary groups (Sonic Youth co-founder Lee Ranaldo with his band and R. Ring, featuring the Breeders’ Kelley Deal). Below are some pictures from the weekend.