Land of NOD Experiment

JAMBASE

Land of NOD Experiment :: 07.23.10-07.25.10 :: Jackson, Michigan

As first time fests go, this one looks really promising in terms of uniqueness and respect for local talent. Michigan is often a forgotten state for much of the rest of the U.S. (despite the fact that we're rolling around in millions of cars from there), and Land of NOD seeks to highlight the homegrown talent beyond Seger, Kid Rock, et al. Add to that interesting headliners like Trombone Shorty & Orleans Ave and of Montreal and what looks like one of the most switched-on communities throwing a party this summer and you've got all the making for a great time. Here's a few standouts from the lineup we recommend.

1. Eagles of Death Metal :: Friday :: 9:50-11:00 PM :: Main Stage 

While we generally steer clear of headliners in our fest previews, there's always room for exceptions, and EODM are surely that! If one's faith in gonad-tickling, little baby girl lovin' rock 'n' roll has been waning, well, the Eagles will pump you right back to full salute. No one out there means it more than bandleader/moustache aficionado/musky firebrand Jesse Hughes, who gives the proverbial 110-percent effort everytime he hits a stage. And he runs with boys who throw in just as hard in their effort to get everyone off - even the sullen dude at the back blogging on his phone about how over rock is. Rarely has a band been more serious AND not serious in their efforts, and their humor dappled sincerity is awfully freakin' winning.

2. Murder By Death :: Saturday :: 4:35-5:25 PM :: Main Side Stage 

Americana can be a touch predictable but never in the hands of these Bloomington, Indiana corkers, who infuse traditional elements with real imagination and flair. Their songwriting is top notch, they sing with real character and they play like folks pleasantly possessed. Highly recommended to anyone who's been smitten by the Avetts, The Pogues and Uncle Tupelo and wants to discover an equally gifted kindred spirit.

3. Macpodz :: Sunday :: 5:55-6:50 PM :: Main Side Stage 

Ann Arbor's Macpodz keep rock the all-inclusive beast it used to be back in the day (namely the fully experimental 60s/70s), thus allowing almost anything into the mix but always with a rockin' attitude. Some of pieces have a jazzy lilt, others touch on funk, but there's rarely one groove going for too long. Macpodz is what was once good about being called a jam band (even if it's not always the greatest albatross to have around one's neck now).