Kicking off Thursday, July 26, Blackoutfest XXII, The Union’s annual birthday party celebration will bring a number of nationally recognized rock acts into Athens for three nights of diverse rock ‘n’ roll fun.
“(Blackoutfest) started simply as a birthday party show for a few union employees who had April birthdays and played in bands. Those three bands were Geraldine, Appalachian Death Ride, and Pimpy Accelerator,” said Scott Winland of Blackout Booking and The Union. “It continued as a one-night-only celebration like that for a few years. After I started the booking agency, Blackout Booking, it eventually evolved into a three-night event, showcasing many of the bands I was booking tours for at the time, and others we loved.”
“I think it is kinda special to have so many awesome acts from all over come into town for a 22-year-old rock’n’roll party in a small club,” said Winland. “It might just be the oldest fest in Athens at this point, which is pretty crazy considering its beginnings as a fun little rock’n’roll birthday party with co-workers and friends. I guess in a way it still feels like that. The biggest highlight each year is still hanging out with old friends listening to music we love.”
Doors open 7 p.m. Thursday, July 26 and 6 p.m. on Friday, July 27 and Saturday, July 28. Weekend passes are available for $35 at this link, and nightly admission is $8 at the door for Thursday; $20 at the door or through this link for Friday; $20 at the door or through this link for Saturday. Check out the full line-up schedule below.
Thursday (upstairs opens at 7 p.m.)
Tracy Duncan art show (downstairs) 6 p.m.!
Speaking Suns
Ma Holos
Mobile Home
Penny Wishes
Blue Moth
Slut Castle
Friday (upstairs opens at 6 p.m.)
Detroit Cobras
Archie & The Bunkers
Counterfeit Madison
DANA
The Molice
The D-Rays
Umman Manda
Saturday (upstairs opens at 6 p.m.)
WAND
Mourning (A) BLKSTAR
EYE
Greg Ashley Band
Bloody Show
Slackluster
Plus the Hongo Gonzo Light Show! Special guest MC, Touchstone The Tramp! Special guest DJs Vivi & The Inspektor and lots more to be announced (stay tuned)!
