The set on Friday also included a new tune, so be sure to keep an ear out from new material from Dehd. Dehd’s records have such a fun and freeing attribute to them, but seeing them performed live only amplifies that mood. The band’s song “Lucky”-which they opened their Pitchfork set with- really showcases the dynamic of Balla and Kempf’s vocal partnership as they belt out the sing-along worthy “sha la la la las” of the song’s chorus together. Veering away from a traditional band lineup, Dehd delivers an unwavering and boisterous blend of surf rock with post-punk with just three members Eric McGrady keeps a steady beat on a standing drum set as guitarist Jason Balla and bassist Emily Kempf share a dual vocal duty. Throughout the evening, I heard many festival attendees state that Dehd was their favorite set of the day, and for good reason. DehdĪNCHR started off our Pitchfork Fest experience this year by catching a homecoming show from trio Dehd, which also acted as the band’s first official performance since their 2020 album Flower of Devotion was released. Read up on the highlights of Friday below, and keep an eye out for further festival coverage coming soon. Music-goers at Union Park over the weekend were graced with a weekend of clear skies and warm (but manageable) temperatures while they soaked in the sounds of more than forty different acts.

Needless to say, the anticipation for Pitchfork Festival 2021 was at an all-time high after the pandemic-caused gap year and the push to September this year, but the wait was well worth it. It’s a place I can reunite with friends from all over the city, and see live music from artists I’ve come to know and love over the years, as well as discover new favorite artists.

Pitchfork Festival has come to be one of those weekends that I look forward to all year.

Down with the sickness midi