Wilco returns to Mass Moca for the seventh version of their own Solid Sound Festival.

The famously eclectic Chicago band curates this biannual gathering and the artists they invite reflect the band’s own adventurous spirit.

Christopher Minor Michael Kalish

Christopher Minor and Michael Kalish

— 1 min read

This time around, the lineup includes Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Nick Lowe and Los Straitjackets, Ires Dement and Courtney Marie Andrews among many more kindred spirits of Wilco.

Wilco themselves will perform a set on Friday and Saturday night on Joe’s Field. Per Solid Sound tradition, the Friday set will have a unifying theme. At past festivals, fans were treated to acoustic sets, cover sets and in 2022, the live premiere of the newly released double LP Cruel Country. This year, the theme is Wilco Deep Cuts. The band has been rehearsing rarely played gems for the occasion and at this moment, fans are surely delving into their illustrious discography to jog their memories. The excellent Alpha Mike Foxtrot box set is a perfect primer for the festival. 

Solid Sound is an outlier among summer festivals in the way the organizers foster a sense of community and belonging for attendees of all ages. Children’s activities such as Story Pirates are always a hit with families.

The Solid Sound app is a handy resource for festival attendees, including a schedule, maps, food options, merch and important FAQ’s.

Following Backstage is proud to cover this year’s Solid Sound Festival. Stay tuned for interviews, recaps and photos.