It was heartbreaking to admit to myself that Sasquatch! 2011 was coming to a close, because it had been a whirlwind of spectacular shows. The festival’s expansion to four days had worked like a charm, with never a lackluster moment that felt forced or simply time-filling. Talented musicians and dancers worked the stages, churning out a wide variety of styles and beats. The most valuable sets were those that saw bands heavily interact with the crowd, and not just play a hurried set. It’s safe to bet the gorgeous setting at the Gorge, as well as the vocally grateful masses, helped inspire so many of the bands to give it their all, but regardless of what it was, we got to see some outstanding stuff this year.
It was a beautiful Memorial Day weekend that saw little weather hazard, and only an occasional unbearably hot or rainy moment. To the Canadian contingent present at the festival, I offer what I heard from them all weekend, in support of their Stanley Cup-seeking hockey team: “Go Canucks!” And to everyone that made this festival possible, I give a gigantic thank you, because it was just about as good as a festival gets. Lastly, to everyone who got to see shows at this year’s Sasquatch!, I give a resounding high-five, because we truly got to see something special in the midst of the festival’s 10th birthday party. Here’s to many more to come.
