The Re:SET concert series was a relaxed alternative to the often times chaotic schedules of music festivals. The idea was born to experiment doing festivals differently in an effort to make the overall experience better for both artists and concert goers. The close intimacy, relaxed atmosphere, and lengthy sets allowed for the audience to truly connect with the artists. Boogie with me through my favorite parts of the weekend!
LCD Soundsystem
The band transported the audience to a magically funky universe. The American-British rock band’s music took over their whole beings as if they were under a spell. You could tell they knew exactly what they were doing up there, and that they’ve been doing it for a long time. It felt like a once in a lifetime treat to see them, and was extra special because of my recent trip to New York. It was definitely my favorite show of the weekend.
Toro y Moi
I didn’t know who Toro y Moi was when I bought tickets, but from listening in preparation his music has become my favorite. He is an adorable man with huge Teddy Bear energy. I was stunned by my love for the music after the show and immediately ran to the merch tent for a T-shirt I can’t take off.
Clairo
Clairo’s music is a heavenly masterpiece. She created a sonic atmosphere that sends the audience to a peaceful, cozy place. With sudden softness, she starts with her recent album Sling and ended with her greatest hits. With sounds of folky guitars, woodwinds, and piano, Clairo grooved with the crowd in her sunglasses, Dijon tee, and a bottle of beer at the piano. She was my favorite performance of the day. She really resonated with me as her music got me through hard times. I sang every word of every song as her music got me through hard times.
Steve Lacy
Steve Lacy felt like a true iconic rockstar in my presence. He played all the anthems and shredded on guitar, but he was also hilarious with crazy style. He wore this long black coat despite the heat of June with electric blue glasses with confidence like no other. He was so comfortable on stage
Boygenius
Boygenius came out with a BANG for Nashville’s weekend finale for band member Julien Baker’s home state. They brought out all the badass energy dressed in drag, drawing attention to the ridiculousness of the Tennessee government signing a bill to outlaw drag performers from doing shows in public. All three members of Boygenius sent a powerful message and went above and beyond for the queer community.
“Today ‘, I’m so grateful for my life, not because I get to stand on stage with my best friends… but because I’m content with the person that I am,” she said. “I have a lot of anger for the people [who] have made me feel small and erased.”
Julien Baker reflects on the homophobic legislation of the Tennessee government.
Re:SET 2023 was an absolute success. It was one of the best concert experiences I’ve had in Nashville. I would highly recommend attending re:SET in a city near you in the future. Here are some other fun photos from the weekend, and check out my Spotify playlist below.
BOOGIE WITH EMMA 