Author: Ella Rustin
As the echoes of cheers and music fade, I am reflecting on Day In Day Out festival, which took place one week ago. Held from July 12th to July 14th, Day In Day Out was a resounding success, offering a perfect blend of fantastic performances and the vibrant atmosphere that makes Seattle’s arts scene unique.
Set against the iconic backdrop of the Space Needle and nestled between the legendary KEXP studios and the Museum of Pop Culture, this year’s festival was nothing short of spectacular. The ideal summer weather played its part, with temperatures reaching a pleasant 80 degrees and a gentle breeze that kept the experience refreshing and enjoyable for all attendees.
The lush park venue transformed into a musical paradise, where fans gathered to enjoy a diverse lineup of performances that spanned a wide range of genres. From indie rock to electronic beats and soulful melodies, the stage showcased emerging talents and well-known artists, captivating audiences throughout the day.
The sense of community and shared joy was remarkable, as fans from all walks of life came together to celebrate their love for music and the city they call home. Every single performance I saw was memorable, but there were a few standout acts that took the stage by storm. Here are my top 3 sets from the weekend!
Mannequin Pussy
Without any surprise, Mannequin Pussy’s set at Day In Day Out left a lasting impression. This was my fourth time seeing the band, and I feel the same level of excitement every time I get to see them play. Back in April, MP made a pit stop in Seattle to play at the Crocodile for the release tour of their latest album I Got Heaven. The release immediately gained notable recognition from varying music critics and fans alike.
On the opening day of the festival, Mannequin Pussy took the stage for their 45-minute slot. They started their performance off slow with the new track and single from their latest album “I Don’t Know You”. “I Don’t Know You” features Mannequin Pussy’s signature blend of punk rock with melodic undertones. The track kicks off with a quiet instrumental, leading into a slow guitar riff that sets the emotional tone of the song. As the song progresses, the instrumentation builds and shifts, incorporating dynamic shifts between quieter, introspective verses and powerful, energetic choruses. The contrast between raw punk aggression and more subdued moments underscores the emotional complexity of the lyrics.
Following the opening track, they segued into another new track, “Sometimes”, and the energy from the band and the audience continued to increase song after song. Mannequin Pussy sets the tone for their politically charged music each show by addressing pressing matters that the band continues to speak out against. At every Mannequin Pussy show, they offer a moment of catharsis and intimacy, urging the crowd to release any pent-up frustrations and energy through a group scream, followed by one of their heaviest songs “Clams”.
Mannequin Pussy’s Day In Day Out set was a demonstration of why their live shows are so electrifying, reaffirming their place as a standout act, continuing to captivate new fans and long-time followers alike.
Les Savy Fav
As day two of Day In Day Out began, I approached the entrance, eager for what the day had in store. I was immediately greeted by the intense, driving sounds of post-punk coming from the stage, a thrilling precursor to the performances ahead. Les Savy Fav was in the midst of their set, and the energy from the crowd was impossible to ignore. Though I was unfamiliar with the band before this festival, it took only a few minutes of their set for me to become a fan.
Upon arriving at the stage, I began to look for the vocalist, and to my surprise, he was standing a few feet away from me in the middle of the crowd, pouring water over eager fans, and making every moment feel electric.
The sheer magnetism and unique antics of Les Savy Fav set them apart as one of the most unique acts of the weekend. Their performance was a whirlwind of chaotic energy and inventive production, culminating in a notable finale where lead singer Tim Harrington unplugged the microphone and ventured further into the crowd, singing with raw, unplugged passion. This unforgettable moment was proof of Les Savy Fav’s ability to turn a festival set into a thrilling and immersive experience.
Amyl and the Sniffers
Amyl and the Sniffers is an Australian punk rock band known for their high-energy performances and unapologetic approach to music. Their sound is a raw and exhilarating blend of punk rock and garage rock characterized by Vocalist Amy Taylor’s dynamic, confrontational vocals and the band’s relentless energy.
Amyl and the Sniffers gained international recognition with their sophomore album, Comfort to Me (2021), which was celebrated for its raw intensity and sharp social critiques. Tracks like “Hertz” and “Security” showcase their ability to blend the traditional punk spirit with a modern edge.
Their performance at Day In Day Out was highly anticipated by many festivalgoers and did not disappoint. Amyl and the Sniffers’ reputation for their energetic and captivating live shows largely exceeded any expectations I had for their set.
As I reflect on the 3 days full of music and community, it’s clear that Day In Day Out is more than just a series of concerts—it is a celebration of Seattle’s music scene, its community spirit, and the joy of summers in the Pacific Northwest. For those who were there, the memories will linger, and for those who missed it, there’s always next year to look forward to.
Many thanks to Daydream State for allowing me to cover this event!
Ella Rustin | KXSU Music Reporter