Gearing up for High Sierra Music Festival

Even though the city is a constant center of amusement and entertainment for me, it's good to get out of town from time to time. It makes me remember that there is a summer after all. So then, are you heading out to High Sierra Music Festival this week? You should be! With acts like Tea Leaf Green, ALO, Bassnectar, and most of SCI, it looks to be one of the strongest line ups in years. Here are a few final thoughts to share before you head out.

1. Expect to pay $20 to stay overnight in line the day before. Because so many people will be arriving on Wednesday, expect big crowds early.

2. Check out the merch area to the left of the main stage. Every year they get better and better about recording real time shows and selling them off within 12 hours of the set. They're great soundboard quality and some acts, like Xavier Rudd need to be listened to live.

3. Expect some great collaborations this year! Kyle, Kang and Travis from SCI will all be there, as will Page from Phish. Something cool is bound to happen, just get to the workshops if it's not too hot and see what goes down.

4. Keep your eyes out for all the post HSMF shows. The promoters do a great job of bringing all the acts into town days after the festival, (mostly because of proximity). So, if you live anywhere in California, you'll be able to catch most of the bands in the coming weeks in your home town.

5. Wear sunscreen. This year is going to be scorching hot.

That's all for now. Share your tips below if you have any to add or check out my 10 Tips for HSMF article from a few months back if you want to learn the real secrets. I'll see you out at Big Meadow, in line at Java a go-go or dancing to the Disco Biscuits late night.



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