ARTICLE BY: S. STILSON
EDITING BY: J. WARNER
Blue Moon Revue
July 29th-30th, the Sleepybear campground in Noblesville, IN became the home of 2 high-energy days of culture, music an arts. Mojostock 2011 greeted attendees with sunshine, excited people of all ages, and two stages stacked with some of the best local artists the Midwest has to offer. Centrally located to the camping area was the Jam Stage which had performances by artists including: The Twin Cats, Catch Curtis, Sixdollarsuit, Eumatik, The Skeetones and many more. Just a short walk around the big red barn and you were at the EDM (Electronic Dance Music) Tent Stage, home of bumping bass and spectacular light/laser shows, which hosted artists such as: Cyberoptix, Adam Jay, Hott Mess, Slater Hogan, Steady B, and members of Indianapolis’ G-9 DJ collective. Those who love music festivals may also enjoy music classes with a bachelor degree online. It is fascinating to learn from each other and enjoy each other through music.
Josh Lockwood of Eumatik
People drove in from all around Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois and Ohio to celebrate the 3rd year of Mojostock. Tents and canopies decorated with festive patterns and lights reminded everyone that they were in for more than just a regular camping trip. Surrounded by large shady trees, the whole festival had a cozy backyard feel, taking you back to the days of family barbecues with close friends. These friends also included the artists themselves. At larger festivals it seems as if the artists are kept hidden from the general public, always in a secure VIP only area. However at Mojostock, that atmosphere didn’t exist. For example, when Eumatik would finish their set, members Josh Lockwood and Ashton Kleemann could be seen walking around hanging out with there fans, soaking in the Mojostock experience with everyone else. This was similar with all the artists that played over the weekend. After the stage lights died, your favorite bands could be easily approached and spoken too, as if you had been friends for years.
Just Lounging
Daylight hours were filled with groovy bass lines and feel good vibes from some of the best rock and jam bands the area has to offer. Whether you felt like spreading out a blanket and relaxing in the sunshine, or sharing stories with new found friends, the large, grassy Jam Stage area catered to all. Painting easels could be discovered about the camping area, displaying beautiful pieces by inspired local artists. Mojostock also proved to be a great experience for families. The smiling faces of children were highly contagious as they spent quality time with their parents and new friends. On the grass around the Jam Stage, fans of all ages found themselves drawn into fun situations, from water balloon fights to face painting to a quick neighborly Frisbee toss. It was certainly impossible to predict what Mojostock had in store, but an incredible soundtrack was guaranteed.
Tent Stage
As dusk settled, the energy and excitement of of the day spilled into the dark hours of night. It was apparent that much time and effort was spent making the Tent Sstage a suitable home for the raver in all of us. The sound quality in the Tent Stage was extremely high, thanks to the powerful audio system it contained. Along side the heavy bass hits, clear mid tones and sharp highs, a mind-melting light system displayed endless combinations of colors and patterns, proving to be a perfect environment for the DJs to express their digital art. The darkness brought forth a multitude of different LED toys, like glowing hula hoops, poi spinners and light glovers, all of which expertly displayed within the Tent Stages walls.
Everything about the production Mojostock 2011 was positive. The location was comfortable and friendly. The security was relaxed but vigilant, tackling safety issues quickly and calmly. Sound production was top notch with close to no stage sound cuts or unwanted feedback. Most importantly though, the lineup was solid. The combination of Jam and Electronic catered to the tastes of a much larger audience, keeping the crowds big and exciting. The combination kept the mood of the daytime very upbeat, while also delivering a high energy club feel at night. Recognition goes out to Matt Ramsey and Jason King for throwing an extremely professional festival. They can rest assured we are all excited for Mojostock 2012.
