3 stages, 2 days, 1 killer line up. Basilica Block Party, one of Minneapolis' biggest music festivals of the summer, will be taking place this Friday and Saturday, July 8th and 9th, outside of the historic Basilica of Saint Mary. The Basilica Block Party was launched in 1995 in order to help fund the restoration of the Basilica and has grown ever since currently drawing more than 25,000 fans. Today, the proceeds are still benefiting the restoration and preservation of the landmark. Split by night one and two, below are some highlights of the festival and what to look forward to.
Night One
Death Cab for Cutie headlines the main stage, and are for sure to bring those classics you listened to in your bedroom such as “Soul Meets Body” and “I Will Follow You Into the Dark” as well as titles from their latest album “Kintsugi”. Following will be X Ambassadors, American Authors and Matt Hires. Two artists finding themselves on one of the smaller stages are Andra Day and Cold War Kids. Andra Day blew up this past year, getting 2 Grammy nominations, for her debut album, I repeat, her VERY FIRST studio album. Her song “Rise Up” is a powerful and soulful uplifting song that she is sure to sing. Cold War Kids blew up the airwaves with their single “First” and have recently released two singles in 2016 most likely signifying a new album on the way. With this possibility, fans may get a sneak peek of unreleased material.
Night Two
The festival continues as headliners Matt Nathanson famous for his single “Come on Get Higher” and Phillip Phillips, winner of American Idol and known for his hit “Home” take the stage. Similar to night one, some nostalgia will set in as The Fray headlines, sure to bring classics such as their triple-platinum debut single “Over My Head” and big seller “How to Save a Life”. Not only does Basilica Block Party offer big headliners, but they also host local acts, who are sure to make a rise in the coming year. Night two features Holidae, and electronic indie pop duo from Minneapolis and Farewell Milwaukee, a 70's influenced band, also from Minneapolis.
Overall, with 5 hours of music on almost every stage, Basilica Block party will surely impress, as it does every year. After this festival, you're sure to be singing on the car ride home, wishing you could go back for a third night.
