Photos by Aaron Moreno
What if I told you there was a festival that happened in the desert every year that wasn’t Coachella, with even more opportunities for a weird, but enjoyable psychedelic experience. Perhaps in a tent while say maybe, Tame Impala, is playing in the background. Well, this oasis I’ve described to you is no mirage, and takes place at Desert Daze in Lake Perris, California! This years lineup, like every year, is jammed packed full of heavy hitters, from the likes of yes, Tame Impala, King Gizzard, Sky Ferreira, and even Iggy Pop.
Myself, I’m most excited to see more Hispanic/Latin acts taking the stage this year! Seeing more representation and inclusion of artists of different genres from these communities, like Chicano Batman, The Maria’s and Brainstory + more, is such a cool feeling.
Here are some of my favorite acts from this years lineup who I will definitely be catching and you should to!
Chicano Batman
A group I’ve seen countless times, whose sound I feel leaves a long lasting glow after every performance. The range of all the different Latin influences in their sound, it’ll keep you on your toes. Catching them surrounded by the scenery of Lake Perris, you couldn’t ask for a better setting!
The Marias
The Marias, who just recently collaborated with Bad Bunny, will be closing out the weekend with their soft, Latin-indie pop sound. If you have haven’t heard this collab yet, I suggest adding it to your end of summer playlist!
Brainstory
Brainstory specialize in that classic Chicano, warm oldies inspired sound, that Big Crown Records is especially known for. Undoubtedly one of my favorite bands right now! They’re gonna be setting the tone for some lake side lounging. I would definitely recommend checking out their most recent album, Ripe.
Fuzz
Fuzz reminds me of my earlier times as a photographer, when I first started to venture off to Austin, Tx on my own from Houston, just to shoot shows. I just remember having my head rocked by Ty’s drumming and the guitars turned up past 10. I expect no less from their set at Desert Daze!
King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard
Especially looking forward to the energy that King Gizzard will be bringing to the fest, after announcing THREE new upcoming, full length albums. As if their catalog wasn’t already never ending!