Every year, thousands of music fans descend on Zilker Park to attend Austin City Limits, also known as ACL. With plenty of bands from all over the globe playing the festival, we know it’s hard to choose which ones to go and see. If you have successfully survived the first weekend of the festival, we are back again this week to let you know about the acts you should not miss for the festival’s close. Before we tell you which bands you must watch during weekend 2, here’s a few helpful tips for both locals and visitors to make sure that the festival is as fun as possible. With temperatures dropping to the low 70’s, the weather may be great, but that doesn’t mean the rain will stay away. Due to the weather forecast the last few years, we highly recommend bringing an umbrella. Dressing for cool weather with comfortable shoes are a must, along with some sunscreen. With the music going all day, you’ll want to remain on your feet without feeling the effects of a horrible sunburn.
Now read on to check out our picks for weekend two. See you in 2017!
Friday, October 7th
Radiohead
Kicking weekend two off is British rock band Radiohead, who recently released their new album A Moon Shaped Pool. With an atmospheric live show that allows the audience to dive into the music, Radiohead should not be missed this weekend.
Bad Suns
Formed in 2014 in Los Angeles, California, Elvis Costello inspired band Bad Suns has released plenty of engaging tracks across two albums, with their latest Disappear Here dropping last week. With songs such as “Salt,” you’ll want to jam to this band all day once leaving ACL.
Kevin Devine and the Goddamn Band
Known for his acoustic songs with political meanings, Kevin Devine will be coming to ACL with his group The Goddamn Band to give his live performance a lively feel. Releasing his next solo record Instigator later this year, Devine is not an artist to miss out on this weekend.
Asleep At The Wheel
Our list for week two would not be complete without a mention of local country band Asleep at The Wheel, headed by local Austin musician Ray Benson. With tracks such as “Hot Rod Lincoln,” Benson gives you the urge to sing along and have a great time, every time. Check out the video below to see what we mean.
Saturday, October 8th
Kendrick Lamar
Compton, California emcee Kendrick Lamar will be hitting ACL during weekend two as he supports his critically acclaimed record To Pimp a Butterfly, released last year. With hits such as “King Kunta” you won’t want to miss this enthusiastic performer. Getting the crowd pumped less than two minutes into his sets, this says volumes about how Lamar engages with his audience, leaves them feeling satisfied.
NF
American Christian rapper NF will be performing at ACL on Saturday, spewing his razer sharp rhymes and catchy melodies. With songs such as “All I Have” from his self-titled album, hip hop fans will have plenty to listen to this weekend as they discover their favorite new emcee.
Andra Day
Gaining coverage on Austin.com earlier this year for here tribute to the victims of the Orlando terrorist attack during her Austin City Limits television appearance, we cannot suggest Andra Day more. As a recent newcomer onto the music scene, Day has won acclaim for her deep and powerful voice that will bring the audience to tears. If you are looking for an emotional vocalist that expresses plenty of feeling, seeing Andra Day is a great choice.
Sunday, October 9th
Willie Nelson
Our next choice is a no-brainer, we just had to include Austin’s favorite musician – Willie Nelson. If you happened to have missed him during his annual 4th of July Picnic or one of the many appearances he makes in Austin during the year, then watching him at ACL should be at the top of your list. While Nelson is getting older, live audiences still get pulled in to the magic that he spreads on stage. Afterwards, you’ll want to see him again and be glad you saw him at all.
Ra Ra Riot
Forming in 2006 in Syracuse, New York, Ra Ra Riot became known for their energetic live shows quickly after forming. While their sound has evolved since their early years, Ra Ra Riot are still a great band to get lost in. You’ll be glad you did.
July Talk
July Talk are a Toronto based four piece slowing rising up to become a band you should watch for. Releasing their single “Summer Dress” from their self-titled album in May, their rock and roll sound will instantly get you hooked and since the group is playing in the early hours of the festival, they are a great band to start your Sunday off with.
Featured photo: Austin City Limits, Maclay Heriot
If you would like to read more of Lauren Gribble’s reviews, you can head over to her website Listen Here Reviews.
