Reggae Rise Up Day 1
Reggae Rise Up Florida has always provided an escape from the norm and into a musical bliss and this past year was no exception. This year’s four day festival packed in the most incredible artists that span over the decades and from all over the globe. The lineup comprised a mixture of reggae, rock, and hip hop. However, the first day could’ve been considered to be the day of shred, that’s because the likes of KNEX, Mihali, Dispatch, and 311 all put on a master showcase of what it means to rock out.
Before opening the gates, the energy buzzed ferociously with the pre-festival angst. Friends and strangers alike could be heard sharing stories of previous festivals, anticipated acts, Island Noodles. The sounds of reggae music floated into the ears, making the excitement even more palpable and almost unbearable, but then the gates opened, and the flood of people spread through Vinoy Park like a stampeding mudslide.
Throngs of people rushed either to the Rise Up stage to guarantee a spot against the rail or to the merch booth to get their official Nathaniel Deas Reggae Rise Up Florida foil. No matter where they were in the park, once KNEX strummed his guitar and the keys started blaring, the mass of people swarmed to the stage to get a glimpse of the hometown homie. Albeit a short set, KNEX provided 30 minutes of incredible vibes that geared festival goers for an incredible weekend of music.
Photos by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson
After the KNEX’s beautiful set, things geared up to a whole other level with Mihali with ripped the soundwaves wide open, with his ability to blend a simple reggae tune with feisty rock undertones. All through Mihali’s set, the screams coming from the crowd seemed to deafen the music, but as the set went on, the music silenced the crowd into a tranquil captivation.
Photos by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson
As the blue sky above began to dim, the late crowd started to pile into Vinoy Park, eagerly awaiting the two 90’s powerhouse acts of the day, Dispatch and 311. The buzzing in the air seemed to keep the sun afloat above, but eventually the sun set below the bay while Dispatch sent fans jumping and hollering for more.
Photos by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson
Thankfully 311 provided more tasty tunes, with their unique blend of rock, reggae, funk, and even some rap. No later than 8:30, fans started chanting for the band to come out, only to turn into a voracious cheer when the band came to the stage in dramatic fashion and delivering a high-energy and unforgettable performance.
There’s no doubt that when 311 plays, fans feel energized and inspired by their incredible performance.
Photos by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson & Zack Kearney
By the end of the night, the exhaustion permeated through the air, but those ready for more could flock to Central Avenue for the after party at The Floridian Social Club where KNEX put on another stellar set, and Kaleidoscope Kid stunned fans with his psychedelic, reggae vibe. Once the music came to an end and the dance floor was empty, it was time to prepare for the weekend ahead.
Review by Brendan Mcginley