After two scorching days in the desert, Sunday cooled down to a more comfortable 90 degrees entering the final day of Stagecoach. The grounds seemed busier than normal, probably because the biggest headliner of the festival, Garth Brooks, drew a number of single day attendees.
The 88.5 FM schedule was light as we didn't have anyone stop by the trailer but still plenty of the festival to take in. Up first was one of the two Canadian acts to take on the Palomino Stage, Colter Wall. You can hear the influence of Candian folk music but with a heavy twist of Johnny Cash. Of course sounding like the Man In Black certainly helps and his deep voice was the most unique vocal all weekend.
Soon a quick trip to the Bazaar was in order to check out Nikki Lane's stage (something, regrettably, left for the last day). All weekend long it featured some of Nikki's favorite artists in Nashville doing pop up performances among the various shops. This day included Daniel Donato, who toured with The Wild Feathers, and he brought along his sweet guitar licks.
Soon it was time to head back to the Palomino Stage to see Lukas Nelson & The Promise Of The Real. Lukas started his set by dedicating it to his father, who turned 85 years old. He launched into a set that spanned from country to rock and displayed more impeccable guitar. He's becoming more comfortable as the leader of the band and even added a plug for Willie's Reserve, throwing a sample in the crowd.
The last artist at Stagecoach's second stage may be the most legendary of the weekend. The influential Gordon Lightfoot is still going strong 52 years after releasing his first album. His words rang through the tent as fans young and old took in the lyrics of one of the best story tellers around.
So wrapped up 88.5 FM's visit to one of the most unique festival in California. Although country is the common thread among all the bands who performed, there was certainly a little something for anyone who enjoys rock or roots music. Click here to see all of our interviews and links to re-caps in one place!
