Article + Photos by Sam Fallone
New Orleans, LA — BUKU was truly a special experience and unlike any other festival I have attended. The vibes were good, the weather was good, everyone was looking great. I was thoroughly impressed with the time and effort put into everyone’s festival outfits and I immediately knew I was in good hands as soon as I walked through the gates. BUKU Music + Art Project is a yearly two-day festival spanning over two days. This unique festival combines live music performances, art installations, and the unique progressive subculture of New Orleans. This year’s festival was extra special as this year was the 10th year of BUKU.
Although it was just nearing the end of March, here in New Orleans it was sunny and near 80 degrees. Not a cloud in the sky. By mid-day, it was getting a little toasty out there. Thankfully, BUKU provided free water refill stations throughout the festival.
The festival was made up of five different stages. The diversity of the music at BUKU that was found on these stages is hard to find anywhere else and there was a little something for everyone. There were two main stages that flip-flopped between sets throughout the day, giving fans the chance to see performances at both of the stages if they desired. These stages had performances from some of the more well-known artists such as Tame Impala, Tyler, The Creator, Glass Animals, Kali Uchis, and Allison Wonderland.
On the other side of the festival grounds, after crossing some train tracks, you will come across the three other stages. One of these stages was a medium-sized outdoor stage that had artists performing almost non-stop both days from 2 pm to 10 pm. The other two remaining stages were much smaller and offered a much more intimate experience. The indoor stage was a big hit…there’s nothing better than getting to listen to live music while escaping the heat for a bit. The last and smallest stage was in a small area that allowed for a very intimate experience. They even had drag wrestling from local group Choke Hole both days at this stage!
Aside from the music, BUKU gives festival-goers the opportunity to immerse themselves in so many different types of art. Small and large sculptures could be found all over the grounds. There was also a nail art station, live graffiti, and pop-up performances just to name a few. Once the sun went down, the sculptures were instantly lit up and they all appeared to take on a new appearance. Walking around the festival grounds at night felt like walking through a glowing wonderland. Closing out the night with Tame Impala one night and Tyler, The Creator the next night just added to that magical wonderland feeling that I’m sure we all had by the end of the night.
The fun doesn’t end after the headliner and there were quite a few “BUKU Late” after-shows around New Orleans to attend if you were able to score tickets!
Hope to see you next year at BUKU!