How does a community create and sustain a hospitable music scene, one that fosters creative original work and encourages artists to remain here rather than driving them away by sheer force of indifference and a lack of opportunities?
Maybe a festival could help.
In keeping with the spirit of Antiwarpt III, this year’s music issue looks at festivals: how they fit into the building-a-scene equation, and the factors that could help make Tampa Bay as big a festival town as Nashville, Portland or even Austin. In this issue, we’ll feature the must-see talent performing at the third annual Antiwarpt; take a look at the origin and history of the fest as well as the passionate promoters who helped make it a reality; and offer a guide to festivals unique to the Tampa Bay area and greater Florida, the ones that bring bands to town and give local acts a chance to shine.
Also in this issue: tips on throwing your own DIY festival; a guide to surviving a day-long fest without looking like “that guy”; a “Fantasy Fest” featuring dream lineups for every season; and a guide to Antiwarpt-handy restaurants. Plus, check the Food section for a guide to restaurants, bars and other non-music venues that regularly host live music, and read Mitch Perry’s report in News & Views on a city councilman with big festival dreams.
