The best weekend of the summer is right around the corner, which of course means it’s Pitchfork season! This year’s lineup boasts an incredible array of artists where there’s truly something for everyone. There’s legends like The Isley Brothers and Mavis Staples, there’s heavy hitting pop acts in HAIM and Robyn, and there’s can’t-miss rap stars in Pusha T and Earl Sweatshirt. While most everyone is on the same page in regards to those headliners, here at BC we wanted to show some love to artists who have only found their way on our playlists within the last couple years or so. They’re what we love so much about Pitchfork. The festival has a knack for being early to the party and taking notice of really incredible artists at the exact right time. All three days are arguably filled with them which is what makes this year (and every year) a can’t miss festival. But these 5 artists in particular have such a unique energy to their sound and stage presence. They’re who were most excited about, and if you find yourself at their set (or down a rabbit hole on YouTube if you can’t make it) we’re sure you won’t be disappointed. (If you haven’t already, pickup your tickets to Pitchfork Music Festival here.)

Grapetooth

Grapetooth are a Chicago based new wave duo consisting of Clay Frankel of Twin Peaks, and Chicago producer Chris Bailoni. Their debut album is ridiculously catchy, and their live shows are absolutely legendary. Seriously. It’s the perfect music for a mid-summer dance party and should absolutely be high on your list for this weekend.

Rico Nasty

Rico Nasty is one of Hip-Hop’s fastest rising stars and will definitely be a contender for highest energy set of the Weekend. Her charismatic sound and party-like atmosphere will get even the most in-the-mud festival goer on their feet.

Jay Som

Jay Som makes some of the most beautiful and easy-to-listen-to on the entire lineup. It’s quintessential summer music that’s impossible not to like. Or dance to. Her sound is so infectious in the best sense of the word. If you’re on the fence, definitely make your way over, because I’m already sure it’ll be one of the best sets all weekend.

Whitney

Ok, I know I said this list was basically for new up-and-commers, but technically the title says “can’t miss” right? The hometown boys are definitely a highlight of the fest for many. Can I use the phrase “quintessential summer music” twice in a row? Screw it. I’m doing it. I mean who hasn’t bumped their music on a summer road trip? If you haven’t you need to. They always put on incredible shows, and with this being a hometown festival show, you know it’s gonna be perfect. Their new record, Forever Turned Around, is out August 30th which means now is the absolute perfect time to catch them. We’re all in for a real treat and it’s going to be nothing short of incredible.

JPEGMAFIA

If you’ve never seen what a JPEGMAFIA performance looks like, stop reading this and search YouTube real quick…pretty amazing right? The dude leaves it all out there and goes absolutely insane. He carries himself more like the singer of a hardcore band than a rapper. Which is exactly why we love him. This set will absolutely go off and you probably should be there for it.

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