I didn’t get a chance to enjoy Hammock Beach, because if I had let myself crawl into one of those little cocoons of tranquility, I would have gotten zero work done. It was like stepping into the Twilight Zone to even step inside. The tunes were flowing around them, but everyone inside was relaxed and stretched out and it really felt like a little pocket of paradise amongst the wild and fun vibes.
So we’ve talked about vibes and food, and all the things that help bolster up this mini spring break of a festival, but I want to dig a little deeper into the music.
Matt Maeson was my absolute standout for the day. I’d followed his music for a while, but getting to see him on the intimate Mermaid Stage, and seeing the way every space was filled up as he performed “Hallucinogenics” solidified for me right there that he is about to become of the biggest breakout artists of 2024. His quiet strength and vulnerability pairs with the conviction in his voice as he performs, and it all blends together to put the crowd in a chokehold.
The Chainsmokers really threw the gauntlet down with their smoke/pyro heavy light show,
throwing the entire festival into a summer vibe that was so unmistakably nostalgic. Everyone sang along with their infectious energy, and the strobes were really solidifying that EDM vibe.
The QUEEN, Lana and her dancers, arrived on stage riding on the back of ATV’s to “Simple Man” and every eye in the crowd was glued to the screens as they watched her approach. She looked stunning and graceful, like an angel come down to bless us all, and that’s exactly what she did. There was so much to see during her set, and all of the cinematography made you feel right there in the moment. She brought out so many new artists, and even with delay, she didn’t leave her fans high by the beach. Favorites like “Chemtrails Over The Country Club” and “Video Games” left the crowd singing along and when she brought out guests Benson Boone to duet “Beautiful Things” the energy hit a fever pitch. Tommy Genesis sang along in a rendition of “Peppers” and when Jelly Roll flew in with “Sweet Home Alabama” it was a perfect ending to day one.
