Exclusive: Four Winds Friday Flashback 2024
Icon, Dada, Orions Pub, Full Circle Book Co-Op, Club David, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
Last weekend, over four thousand music enthusiasts gathered at the Sioux Falls Four Winds Music and Art Festival, presented by the Pepper Entertainment Foundation, organized by the talented team at Nice Enough Ent.
Since its inception in 2016, this festival has enjoyed remarkable growth and success, expanding to include sister festivals in Sioux City, Omaha, and most recently, Rapid City.
As loyal attendees of the festival, we have witnessed its evolution over the years. In our first year, we were merely a merch vendor named Ravetopia, handling a few artist’s merchandise alongside our own festival gear. The following year, we expanded our offerings, providing coverage of the event through this publication. This year, we took it up a notch providing even more artists merch, sponsoring a stage and co-hosting the EDM Afterparty with SiouXciety.
What sets the Four Winds Music and Art Festival apart is its ability to create an authentic festival experience within a downtown setting. Typically, city music festivals can be underwhelming, as they are often confined to a park, or lose their essence amidst the city's hustle and bustle. However, Sioux Falls and Nice Enough Ent. have managed to transcend these limitations. Our city's intimate size prevents being overwhelmed by a chaotic environment, setting it apart from festivals like Vegas or Miami Ultra, which are embedded in densely populated cities. Four Winds spans half a mile, boasting five stages, providing a diverse and dynamic musical experience. To put this into perspective, Electric Forest, excluding the campgrounds, extends about a mile and offers nine stages, including the Silent Disco.
While Four Winds Music and Art Festival excels in many areas, there are a few standard festival elements that could be further added. A Silent Disco, scavenger hunt, and interactive art installations are some additions that could elevate the overall experience and put it on par with other large festivals. Given the festival's rapid growth, I could see these elements incorporated in future years.
Hopefully someday the city itself will see the benefit of the city’s largest local, artist-focused music festival. Maybe one day we will see the Levitt involved in an expansion.
One admirable aspect of Nice Enough Ent.'s management is their openness to collaborating with local sponsors which obfuscates the pursuit of large corporate sponsors like Shien did for Breakaway. This approach ensures that a significant portion of the funds remains within the local community. The vendor and sponsor amounts are reasonable and transparent, fostering a fair and inclusive environment.
In contrast to festivals that tightly control every aspect, Four Winds stands out when it comes to food vendors. Often, festivals dictate the use of identical boxes to track sales and claim exorbitant commissions on top of vendor fees. However, at Four Winds, you will find a variety of reasonably priced food trucks along the festival route, complementing the food options offered by the venues themselves.
One standout among them was Clifford's Doggone Cart, located in front of The Orion Pub. Their mouthwatering Chili Cheese Dog was so delicious, you couldn’t have just one. Our Editor-in-Chief’s favorite was the Carolina Red Dog, which was topped with pulled pork, spicy vinegar sauce, and coleslaw. It is worth noting that these delectable treats were priced under $10, and surpassed the quality of food found at many other festivals. At Electric Forest, for instance, a hot dog can cost up to $14 without delivering the same satisfaction.
To kick off our music coverage, I decided to highlight the stages situated at Full Circle Book Coop and The Orions Pub. Interestingly, both of these stages were supported by local Publications. It's worth noting that these venues are adjacent to each other, with minimal soundproofing. Initially, I had concerns about sound bleeding, similar to what one might experience when transitioning between stages at a major festival. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the organizers, sound technicians, and bands who efficiently managed the schedule and prevented any interference between artists.
Dakota Scout Stage: Full Circle Book Coop
The stage at the Full Circle Book Coop was proudly sponsored by Dakota Scout. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to personally experience any of their performances this year as I was confined to managing my booth at the Icon, due to a family engagement the same day. Nonetheless, it was fantastic to hear about the return of Chara, and enjoy the attendees getting to hear the familiar sounds of bands like Emerald Skies, Graveless, The Degenerates, and, of course, Sad Planet. It's worth mentioning that Sad Planet, who now resides in California, made the effort to fly back and perform for the South Dakota crowd this year, and even took the time to sit down to talk with me in the alley behind the venue, somewhere away from all the noise. That's what I call dedication! This talented artist has also graced other festivals we've covered, such as Shorefest.
Sad Planet
In an exclusive interview, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Sad Planet, an up-and-coming artist set to release their highly anticipated new album, "Letters to Earth." This album marks the first installment of a trilogy that promises to capture the essence of their unique sound and artistic vision.
Sad Planet has recently made a significant move, relocating to California to pursue their musical aspirations. He explained how the EP represents the end of a chapter in his life, more specifically his Sioux Falls chapter, and embarking on a new, exciting journey. He said, "It's not about where you've been, but where you're going,” and his relocation to California represents exactly that - a fresh start, and an opportunity to explore new horizons.
With "Letters to Earth," Sad Planet aims to attach self-produced songs to an album that serves as a personal and artistic milestone. The album delves into themes of introspection, longing, and the complexities of human emotions. Sad Planet has poured their heart and soul into this project, working tirelessly to perfect their sound and ensure that each track resonates with their message.
The dedication and hard work paid off, as Sad Planet managed to fund the journey back through his sales. Their determination to make their dreams a reality is evident in their unwavering commitment to their craft and their willingness to take risks.
"Letters to Earth" is just the beginning of Sad Planet's musical odyssey. As he embarks on this trilogy, he is prepared to push his creative boundaries further to explore new sonic landscapes. Unfortunately, he wouldn’t disclose any details about the other two parts of the trilogy, as he wished to put focus on this first release. The move to California not only signifies a physical change of location but also represents the artists evolution and growth as an artist.
The album is set to captivate listeners with its evocative lyrics, powerful melodies, and a sound that is uniquely Sad Planet. With a self-produced approach, the artist brings an authenticity and rawness that resonates deeply with his audience. "Letters to Earth" is a testament to his artistic vision, and it serves as a harbinger of the exciting musical journey that lies ahead for Sad Planet.
Intellectual Dissatisfaction Stage: The Orion Pub
Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the Four Winds Music Festival, our esteemed Editor-in-Chief wasted no time in rushing over to get eyes on our highly anticipated Intellectual Dissatisfaction’s stage that we sponsored at The Orion Pub. With a unique lineup of singers and song writers, featuring the likes of Nearly Famous Dave from Shorefest, Brady Wrede, Granite City Howler, Mike James, Billy Yost, and Humbletown, the evening was poised to leave a lasting impression on both the audience and our dedicated journalist.
Nearly Famous Dave
Kicking off the proceedings was our Shorefest homie, Nearly Famous Dave. We were super pumped when we saw he was performing at our stage! He had some great insight on a few other festival goers and made some connections, sure to impact the local music scene in the future. Another testament to the impact of festivals like these building local connections and building the local music scene as a whole!
Next up was Brady Wrede followed by Granite City Howler.
Granite City Howler
Granite City Howler is a name that has become synonymous with soulful performances and introspective songwriting. With his guitar in hand, Andrew, the mastermind behind Granite City Howler, took the stage and immediately set the mood with a soul-stirring, lower-paced song. The crowd was captivated by this acoustic performance, drawn into the emotional depth of his lyrics and the haunting melodies that echoed throughout the venue. He had a particularly striking singing voice that would have taken you for a loop had you had the opportunity to hear him speak.
As the set progressed, Granite City Howler skillfully shifted gears, picking up the pace with his second song. The energy in the room surged, and the audience eagerly embraced the change in tempo. It was worth noting that, on this particular night, Andrew performed as a solo act due to his band mates being on tour in the Keys. Nonetheless, his commanding stage presence and undeniable talent showcased his ability to captivate a room all on his own.
The third song Granite City Howler performed was a treat for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Straight off his new "Tempo Changes and PBR" album, this track exemplified Andrew's penchant for crafting thought-provoking lyrics and blending them with infectious melodies. It was a perfect representation of the unique sound and artistic vision that Granite City Howler has become known for.
Humbletown
In addition to the exceptional performances, our team was fortunate enough to secure an interview with the enigmatic Humbletown. This up-and-coming band has been making waves with their genre-bending sound and introspective songwriting. With a combination of folk, indie, and rock influences, their music has garnered attention for its raw emotion and thoughtfully crafted lyrics. With a core duo and a rotating cast of musicians, depending on availability, Humbletown has been on a whirlwind tour spanning thousands of miles, captivating audiences across the country.
Their Four Winds adventure began with performances at the Rapid City Four Winds Festival, followed by an electrifying show at the Sioux Falls Four Winds Festival on Friday night. They showcased their talent and versatility, leaving a lasting impact on attendees. Their dedication was evident as they juggled multiple shows, including a highly anticipated performance at the upcoming Levitt show on Saturday. The band's relentless energy and commitment to their craft was truly admirable.
In their early years, artists like Sublime, Pink Floyd, and the Grateful Dead played a significant role in shaping their musical tastes. As they grew older, their interests expanded, broadening their musical horizons into the realm of bluegrass. We also discussed how members of the Grateful Dead, through their association with String Cheese Incident, have played an instrumental part in the EDM world. It was fascinating to explore how artists inspiring and influencing one another, and the interconnectedness of different genres ultimately shapes the music landscape.
The heartwarming aspect of the interview was discovering the profound connection between the two main members of Humbletown. They met seven years ago while playing music and have since become life partners, building a beautiful life together with their children. Their shared passion for music not only fuels their creative endeavors but also strengthens their bond as a couple. It was inspiring to witness how love and music intertwine, creating a harmonious and fulfilling partnership.
As our conversation unfolded, it became clear that Humbletown is not just a musical group, but a family that shares a deep love for their craft and for one another. Their journey, marked by relentless touring, diverse influences, and a strong bond, is a testament to their unwavering dedication and the power of music to transcend boundaries and bring people together.
Looking ahead, Humbletown is set to captivate audiences at the upcoming Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival, adding another remarkable chapter to their musical legacy. With their talent, passion, and unyielding spirit, there is no doubt that Humbletown will continue to make waves in the music industry, leaving an indelible mark on all who have the pleasure of experiencing their extraordinary performances.
As the night unfolded, it became clear that the Intellectual Dissatisfaction stage at The Orion Pub was more than just a showcase of talent. It was a platform for musicians to explore the depths of their creative abilities, challenge traditional norms, and provide the audience with an intellectually stimulating experience that would resonate long after the festival ended.
Last Stop CD Shop Stage: Club David
Sponsored by Last Stop CD Shop, the stage at Club David brought the heat with a lineup that was guaranteed to leave attendees exhilarated and craving more. Bands such as Expereyemental, Spiraldoubt, Embedded In Flesh, Dragged Out to Sea, Pray For Villains, and Exhausted took to the stage, delivering powerful performances that left an indelible mark on the crowd. Expereyemental and Pray For Villains, two bands that RaveTopia's has had the privilege of doing merch for, set the bar high with their energetic and captivating sets.
Expereyemental
Expereyemental's unique sound and stage presence had the audience entranced from the moment they hit the stage. With a blend of intense vocals, infectious rhythms, and thought-provoking lyrics, they commanded the attention of every ear in the venue.
Pray For Villains
Pray For Villains, on the other hand, unleashed a sonic assault that pushed the boundaries of heavy music. Their powerful and aggressive sound, coupled with their commanding stage presence, ignited the crowd and incited a frenzy of headbanging and moshing. It was a sight to behold as the audience surrendered themselves to the raw energy emanating from the stage. Jrail sporting his iconic chain necklace always brings a smile to our faces.
Dragged Out to Sea
Dragged Out to Sea truly left an impression on the crowd. With their very high energy performance and deep guttural screams, they delivered a set that was nothing short of electrifying. Their mosh-inducing breakdowns had the crowd thrashing and slamming into one another, creating a chaotic yet exhilarating atmosphere. In the midst of the chaos, a daring individual decided to crowd surf, prompting the quick reflexes of a fellow concertgoer to prop them up before they hit the scuffed blue painted concrete floor.
Exhausted
Exhausted, this stages final band of the night, took to the stage. As the night continued, the energy in the crowd remained high, with mosh pits breaking out and the adrenaline pumping through everyone's veins. They poured out everything they had to the crowd and true to their name left many Exhausted. The Last Stop Stage created an environment where the music transcended the stage, captivating the audience and creating a sense of unity and camaraderie among the attendees.
After catching a few sets, our Editor-in-Chief headed back to the Icon. Described as such, the walk back was a refreshing experience, with the temperature at a comfortable 72 degrees and the sun setting, casting a beautiful array of colors across the sky. The scent of food trucks filled the air, teasing the senses with the aroma of deep-fried delicacies and mouthwatering barbecued meats. He passed by one of the sip n' cycle trolleys, one filled with a group of enthusiastic guys and the other brimming with lively girls, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.
But it wasn’t done yet with the Ravetopia X SiouXciety Afterparty scheduled still!
Club David Afterparty: Hosted by RaveTopia and SiouXciety
The EDM After Party, co-hosted by RaveTopia and SiouXciety, was a night to remember, filled with pulsating beats and an electrifying atmosphere. The lineup featured a stellar roster of DJs who took the stage by storm, captivating the crowd and creating an unforgettable experience.
Deadbeatz
The party kicked off with Deadbeatz, whose performance set the tone for the night. The crowd was immediately enthralled by the infectious energy and seamless transitions of his set. Deadbeatz's ability to command the dance floor and keep the crowd moving was a testament to his skill and talent.
Yosef Moon
Yosef Moon took the stage next, captivating the audience with his mesmerizing beats. Despite some small technical issues with the CDJ board that affected the following DJs, Yosef Moon held the crowd's captivation throughout his set and dead air time after. His ability to navigate through the challenges and deliver an incredible performance spoke volumes about his professionalism and dedication to his craft. His impromptu beatboxing wasn’t half bad either to give the crowd a laugh and kill some time for the next artist to get ready!
Rylo Zen
Unfortunately, due to the technical difficulties, Rylo was unable to play his set as planned. However, efforts will be made to ensure that he gets the opportunity to showcase his talent at a future show. The resilience and understanding of the crowd in the face of these challenges was truly commendable, showcasing the unity and support that defines the EDM community.
PLUR GRR
PLUR GRR took the stage for the final set of the night, delivering an impressive freestyle set that had the crowd in a frenzy. The energy was palpable as PLUR GRR seamlessly mixed genres and unleashed a wave of euphoric beats. The crowd's enthusiasm and response were simply awe-inspiring, showing that PLUR GRR's performance was a highlight of the night.
The EDM After Party hosted by RaveTopia and SiouXciety proved to be a resounding success, with attendees filling the venue to capacity. The sight of wheelchairs maneuvering through the crowd, determined to be a part of the experience, was a testament to the power of the music and the vibrant atmosphere. The dedication and passion of the EDM community were evident, as everyone pushed through the crowds to create unforgettable memories.
There’s something to be said about the power of electronic music which brings people together, and creates an inclusive and exhilarating environment. The performances by Deadbeatz, Yosef Moon, and PLUR GRR showcased the immense talent within the regional EDM scene, leaving the crowd in awe and ensuring that the night would be remembered as one of the most epic after parties in recent memory.
Art Exhibit: Curated by Kamrie Mammola
One of the standout features at this year's Four Winds Music Fest was undoubtedly the Art Exhibit, curated meticulously by the talented Kamrie Mammola. As I stepped into the exhibit space, it was immediately apparent that this year's showcase had undergone a significant transformation. Gone were the smaller, less noteworthy artists that had previously peppered the exhibit. Instead, I was greeted with a carefully selected group of artists who had clearly been chosen with great care and consideration.
The overall reduction in the number of artists was a bold move, but it paid off tremendously. The average quality of artwork on display had undeniably increased, leaving visitors captivated by the immense talent exhibited. It was evident that Kamrie Mammola had spared no effort in fine-tuning the selection, ensuring that only the most exceptional works made it onto the walls.
However, as I spoke with some of the artists in attendance, they mentioned that while they appreciated the absence of lesser artists, the overall space felt somewhat empty. They expressed a desire to be able to refer known accomplished artists in the future to help fill the space and maintain a vibrant atmosphere. Many other festivals have dedicated artist application sections that allow artists to send their applications directly to the head of the art exhibits, facilitating the inclusion of renowned artists.
Among the familiar and incredible artists featured in the Art Exhibit were the likes of Brutal Doodles and Adrian Day. Their returning unique artistic styles and captivating pieces stood out among the rest, drawing crowds of art enthusiasts eager to witness their latest creations. It was a pleasure to see these talented individuals return, showcasing their growth and evolution as artists.
The Art Exhibit served as a visual feast for festival-goers, offering a diverse range of mediums, styles, and concepts. From vibrant acrylic paintings that burst with life to intricate pencil sketches that invited contemplation, there was something to enthrall every art lover's senses. The displayed artworks not only complemented the festival's vibrant atmosphere but also added an extra layer of depth and creativity to the overall experience.
Common Sense Stage: DADA
The Common Sense Stage at the Four Winds Music Fest offered an eclectic lineup of bands that spanned various genres and eras, ensuring that every music lover in attendance found something to groove to. From the dynamic sounds of Subject to Change to the high-energy punk rock anthems of Aliens Exist, the stage was a hub of musical diversity.
Subject to Change
Subject to Change, a three-piece band, kicked off the performances on the Common Sense Stage. Their unique selling point was their ability to seamlessly transition between different genres, ensuring that their style and sound were constantly evolving. It was a treat for the audience, who found themselves captivated by the band's versatility and musical prowess.
Asking Abby
Asking Abby took to the stage next, bringing their post-hardcore punk sound to life. With a history that included multiple tours, including the iconic Vans Warped Tour and Taste of Chaos Tour, the band had a solid fan base. Sharing the stage with renowned acts like Hawthorne Heights, Senses Fail, and Rise Against, Asking Abby's performance was a nostalgic throwback to the golden era of punk rock.
12 1/2 Charlies
12 1/2 Charlies, a rock band hailing from Sioux Falls, delivered a powerful and energetic set. Their music resonated with the crowd, as they effortlessly blended rock elements with their own unique style. The band's presence on the Common Sense Stage added a local touch to the festival, showcasing the talent that the region had to offer.
The Disarmed
The Disarmed, an alternative hard rock band, took the stage, marking it as a bittersweet moment for guitarist Morgan Harris, as it was his last show with the band. Their performance exuded raw energy and passion, leaving the audience in awe of their intense stage presence and hard-hitting sound.
Ghostcat
Ghostcat, an alternative/indie rock band hailing from the Midwest, brought their dreamy melodies and introspective lyrics to the Common Sense Stage. Their atmospheric soundscapes transported listeners to a world of musical enchantment, highlighting their unique approach to alternative rock.
Aliens Exist
To conclude the Common Sense Stage lineup, Aliens Exist took the stage, typically known as a Blink 182 tribute band. However, for the after party at The Icon, Post Prof, they surprised the crowd by covering Green Day's iconic album, "American Idiot," from start to finish. Their energetic performance had the audience jumping and singing along, creating an electric atmosphere that perfectly closed off the night.
The Common Sense Stage at the Four Winds Music Fest truly showcased the diversity of the music scene, with each band bringing their own distinct style and sound. From Subject to Change's genre-bending approach to Aliens Exist's unexpected tribute, every performance was a testament to the power of live music and its ability to unite audiences from all walks of life.
Surly Stage: Icon Stage
The Surly Stage at the Four Winds Music Fest was a vibrant platform that brought together an impressive lineup of bands, each delivering their own unique style and leaving the audience craving more. From the infectious energy of Gorilla Pimp to the captivating performance by Prof, the stage was a hotbed of musical talent and excitement.
Gorilla Pimp
Gorilla Pimp started off the Surly Stage with a bang, despite facing a setback with a back injury. This marked his last show under the Gorilla Pimp moniker before moving on to his new project, Chris Gnarly. Despite the early start time, Gorilla Pimp's performance was nothing short of spectacular. Being rested and supported by a skilled DJ, he delivered what many would consider his best performance to date. It was a fitting farewell before embarking on his new musical journey.
It is worth noting that even after he left the stage, Gorilla Pimp remained a significant presence throughout the day. Another artist seemed to take the time to throw a shady lyric in his direction. We noticed the creation of a fake facebook profile to bash him after the festival. However, this ironic and pointless act proved to be a waste of time, as Gorilla Pimp was already in the process of changing his artist name, rendering the negativity irrelevant.
Jay Greybuffalo
Jay Greybuffalo graced the stage, bringing his signature style and undeniable talent. Having recently experienced his performance at the BDE Boy show, it was a joy to see him once again. This performance was particularly special for our new photographer, makaylalilystudio, as it marked one of the first times they had the opportunity to capture an artist for the second time with us. Her first Greybuffalo show was the BDE Boys/Denham Show earlier this year.
LXS
The LXS crew made a memorable appearance on the Surly Stage, as they always do. Known for their fun and energetic performances, the LXS crew never fails to impress. Their support and compliments for the RaveTopia booth were appreciated, and this marked the fourth time witnessing their undeniable talent and camaraderie.
Rogues Nation
Rogues Nation has made some huge changes since we first started seeing them 3 years ago but they are still going strong! GunnerB announced he has neck surgery coming up and will be gone for a year and a half after this. We are interested to see what the rest of the crew does during this downtime!
Enlightened Ones
Enlightened Ones took the stage, bringing their solid sound and infectious energy to the festival. We were happy to get them some new merch in for the festival as well! Their collaboration with Gorilla Pimp on a song from their new album has been an added local bonus recently, showcasing their versatility and creativity.
Sofwu
Sofwu, with the familiar face of Aaron Keller on stage, instantly brought a smile to my face as their performance kicked off. Their rendition of well-known cover songs was nothing short of extraordinary, with some even surpassing the originals in terms of quality and delivery. The sheer talent and passion displayed by Sofwu left a lasting impression, captivating the audience from the very first note.
Prof
Prof, a seasoned performer, closed out the Surly Stage with his trademark high-energy performance. Prof's ability to engage the crowd and leave a lasting impression was as strong as ever, making his set a highlight of the festival. At one point, I thought the crowd started spilling over into the street and was going to stop traffic!
The Surly Stage at the Four Winds Music Fest proved to be a platform where artists could showcase their talent and captivate the audience. From Gorilla Pimp's unforgettable swan song to the engaging performances by Jay Greybuffalo, the LXS crew, Enlightened Ones, Sofwu, and Prof, attendees were treated to a diverse range of musical styles and top-notch performances. The Surly Stage undoubtedly left a lasting impression, cementing its status as a cornerstone of the festival's success.
After a high-energy, high-heat day filled with some of the best local music and art Sioux Falls has to offer, our crew was relieved it was coming to an end, as the day’s worth of work-infused celebration started setting in. With day two of Four Winds kicking off around 1pm the next day, we could rest easy knowing we had another exciting day ahead of us at Sioux Falls’ most anticipated yearly summer music festival.
Hell yeah, it was a great time!
That sounds so ridiculously fun!!! I’m only a 5 Hour drive away. It’s on my calendar for next year. That is, if it’s an annual gig. You’re awesome!!!