KAABOO TEXAS, Day 3
AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
May 12, 2019
Written by Joseph Landeros / Photography by Denise Enriquez
Aside from the spice that Pitbull brought during the day, Sunday was the mellow contrast that ended the weekend of high energy performances. Texas talent was on display again with shows including Austin’s Mamafesta and Israel Nash. The casual listener enjoyed the classic sound of Eric Burdon & The Animals while getting a taste for the eccentricity of St. Paul and the Broken Bones. The Beastie Boys’ Mix Master Mike offered a blast from the past while The Avett Brothers offered their southern folk flair that made it worth standing in the glaring sunny day. The weather also showed the true vision for the BASK area with attendees getting to partake in the pool party while jamming to Matoma. Of course, decisions had to be made late in the day as The B-52s shared times with Counting Crows and Little Big Town. All were able to be attended if you didn’t mind the walk and missing songs from each artist, which coincidentally, was a broad theme for the weekend. Fortunately, everyone had the chance of attending the final show of the night with Sting finishing off the weekend.
KAABOO Texas was purposeful in identifying their target audience: the expendable incomed adult willing to buy into the pricier craft cocktails, signature food options, and additional priced VIP options. That’s not to say those on a budget couldn’t enjoy themselves with a little pre-gaming. Unfortunately for most, including those with media access, you weren’t able to participate in the “Rockstar” VIP options which opened up an additional live stage with acts such as Ryan Cabrera, North Mississippi Allstars, BJ Barnham of American Aquarium, or Stealing Oceans to name a few. Or the many other options that came with higher priced ticket options that gave you varied stage access or the “Ultimate Hang lounge offering intimate interactions with some of the artists in attendance.
With KAABOO Texas already poised to return for 2020, time will tell if the multiday event is a success or a dud. With other festivals taking shape in the area, it has some competition too. Public sentiments such as characterizations of a new fancy FYRE Fest can give any potential attendee reservation on attending; but, KAABOO has a lot to do and a lot going for it. If you can get past the pricy parking, and the persistent fear of missing out on one stage over another, good shows are to be experienced if next year’s artists bring the same energy and love for their fans. My only wish for next year is more sunny, dry weather, but not too hot. Is that too much to ask?
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KAABOO TEXAS ARTIST PHOTO GALLERY
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