The seventh annual Fun Fun Fun Fest got underway on Friday at Auditorium Shores. With the Austin skyline and Town Lake in the background, local rockers Not in the Face and soul band 10YR kicked off the day performing on separate stages around noon.
The vibe of Fun Fest is definitely rebellious but also more relaxed than the monster that is ACL. Local art and food vendors line the gates, as well as a huge skateboard and BMX wonderland that is set up on the west end of the grounds.
Omar Rodriguez-Lopez, of Mars Volta fame, had to cancel his show, slotted for 4:15 on the Orange Stage because his RV broke down. The El Paso native was able to reschedule and played on Sunday.
The big surprise of the day came when Atlanta’s Black Lips took the Blue Stage right around sunset. It was listed on the schedule as a “Special Performance featuring The Black Lips”, and the festival was buzzing, wondering what it could be. Turns out, it was Val Kilmer. The actor has joined the cast of Terrance Malick’s untitled film about the music scene in Austin. Kilmer appeared on stage wielding a chain saw at one point and eventually cutting off his hair with a knife. The crew was seen filming scenes backstage as well.
The Black Stage hosted L.A. punk-rockers X, while the San Antonio girl band, Girl In A Coma rocked the Yellow Stage.
Friday wrapped up with a number of hip-hop acts. Santigold put on a great show, just like last year at ACL. Houston rapper Bun B took the Blue Stage just before legendary headliners Run-DMC took the crowd by storm, playing hits like “Walk This Way” and “It’s Tricky.”
