Lilofee

Fans of independent music everywhere rode the crest of a rolling wave last week during San Francisco’s Noise Pop, with performances occurring with such rapid-fire frequency that it was impossible to catch everything. The festival is advertised as SF’s primary independent music event, so attending really forces one to question exactly what indie music signifies. There were absolutely no genre or musical commonalities to tie these musicians together and create one cohesive vibe. Instead, the collective mentality resulted from the celebration of a triumph — apparently success can be achieved without falling prey to the corporate machine.

The Opening Night Party at Mezzanine on Tuesday kicked the event into full force with energetic performances from Lilofee and Deerhunter. The venue was packed wall-to-wall by the time Lilofee took the stage, and the blue lighting being cast from overhead shifted the attention away from a bustling social scene and toward her trance-inducing performance. The edgy, seductive, in-your-face energy neared a state of combustion at many points, leading the show with high-flying power (even if the notes she sang fell flat from time to time).

When Deerhunter took the stage, a heavy, ambient wave descended over the crowd, with electronic noise and distorted vocals thickening in the air as soft, dreamy chords laid down the background. With clear command and control of their respective instruments, the members each dished out their all in what was a much-appreciated performance by the looks of the densely packed fans. While I could appreciate their skill and ability, I have to admit that I was a little more interested in playing “Rock Band,” which was set up in the smoking area.

Deerhunter

Happy Hours were hosted from Wednesday to Friday at Benders and the Diesel Store, allowing ample time to mingle and get in on some free drinks before the next show. Although they were polluted with pretentious scenesters, who can really complain when there’s free booze involved? After downing a never-ending stream of fine beer (er, I mean Budweiser’s American Ale), fans dispersed to catch a variety of acts, including The Mountain Goats, Josh Ritter, and Ra Ra Riot.

Noise Pop’s reach extended far and wide, with performances ranging from acoustic to electronic, metal to mellow, funky to folky, and everything in between. Here’s to a festival with ample to offer.