A Festival of the Avant Guard
written by J. Bennett Rylah
Revue - Grand Rapids
The Land of NOD Experiment in Jackson is one of several music festivals occurring this summer in Michigan, but this one's lineup is perhaps the most interesting.
Not clinging to any particular genre, the artists are a diverse group that put on amazing visual shows in addition to a fine aural experience. A few examples: The cello-driven Rasputina, psychedelic pop Of Montreal, underground hip-hop legend Dr. Octagon/Kool Keith, what-if scenario The Eagles of Death Metal, Tokyo Police Club and Trombone Shorty.
An experiment to be certain, this is Land of NOD's real debut and the largest scale event put on by the company.
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Land of NOD Experiment
Jackson, Mich. July 23-25 $28-$250
noomoonlandofnod.com
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The two in charge are Dan Sheridan (NOOMOON) and Jason Reed (Dark Course). It differs from their previous events, Reed said, "because we are trying to reach a bigger audience and have a larger impact."
NOD has room for 10,000 people on its scenic campground, a site that is said to be secluded and surrounded by "majestic oak trees." Local and national talents play on multiple stages, and it's not just music. Guests are, after all, camping for three days in an arena of the avant garde. Reed promises many surprises, including fashion shows, parades, buskers, aerial artists, live mural and sculpture creation, spoken word, storytelling and dance. The adventurous camper will find him or herself constantly inundated with entertainment.
"We searched for artists that would help to complete our vision, rather than just picking up bands that are on tour or easily available," Reed said. "We have worked closely with every one of our artists to ensure that they understand our concept that this is an experiment."
Nod also embraces the philosophy of greening and sustainability, a trend which has been affecting large-scale events.
"We are working with festival recycling veterans Recycle Detroit and Jackson Recycling to establish a program to process all waste produced onsite as well as composting appropriate materials for future use," Reed said. "We aim to leave no trace."
No trace, of course, but memories that, according to Reed, attendees couldn't have gotten anywhere else.
"Land of NOD draws no comparisons to other festivals in the area," he said. "We are experience-driven, not consumer-driven. We are inspired by the genuine drive that people have to get out there and experience something new, something different. Variety is the spice of life and fun is the end product."
Expect beer, wine and cocktails for libations, and vegans and vegetarians will find food to their liking alongside traditional festival fare. Land of NOD clothing and gear will be available for sale, as well as merchandise from performing acts. Also expect interviews with participating artists from our Revue blog as the Festival gets closer. First up: A chat with Rasputina founder Melora Creager about its new album, Sister Kinderhook.
For tickets, directions and a full lineup, visit landofnodexperiment.com