Taking a "trip" to Austin Psych Fest / Levitation 2015 — reasons you need to go

Fever The Ghost

You know in movies when the main character embarks on a journey that they don’t know where it’s gong to take them? They are excited to go because of what discoveries lay ahead and yet that eagerness is tempered by a slight trepidation of the unknown? That’s how I feel as I am about to go on a voyage to a world unknown to me, Texas. Yup, this California girl is headed to the Lone Star state, specifically to Austin, specifically to Levitation Festival (FKA Austin Psych Fest) for the first time. I don’t know what I’ll find there, but I know its going to be a hell of a good time.

Here are the three things I’m looking forward to the most on my inaugural visit to Levitation Festival in Austin.

1. The music will set the tone for the weekend. I am going into this with open ears and excitement to discover new things. Levitation boasts well-known indie acts like Tame Impala and Flaming Lips to eagerly anticipated reunions like the god-fathers of psych rock 13th Floor Elevators. Also the Scottish rockers The Jesus & Mary Chain are headlining Saturday as part of a busy summer tour schedule, including FYF fest in Los Angeles. If those four weren’t enough to get your blood pumping, Levitation has dug deep to bring us experimental, garage and lo-fi rock acts that will keep my musical ears buzzing to the wee hours of the morning.

2. The setting looks dope. The fest is at a privately owned ranch called Carson Creek Ranch. It’s a sprawling 15-acre ranch set against the banks of the Colorado River. They even have cattle there. Like, real life cows ya’ll (did I say that right?). Not sure we will be getting up close and personal with the bovine attendees, but we do get to be at a stage that is nestled right up against the river. Big trees, open fields, rushing waters and music dancing in the air, what more could you ask for?

3. BBQ. It feels like all anyone talks about after a visit to Texas, and specifically to Austin, is the BBQ. How many times have I sat drooling as friends have told me about pork smoked slowly and covered in slaw and then eaten while wearing a bib? I’m already licking my lips thinking about washing down fried okra with an ice-cold beer. I’m ready to dive deep into BBQ and any other southern fare you’re going to throw at me Austin.

As I am packing my bags and my 25 portable power banks I can’t help but think about all the firsts I’m headed into. First time to Texas, first time seeing Flaming Lips, first time with BBQ smeared on my face, and first time seeing someone wearing chaps in real life (hopefully). Follow along on my journey here on Grimy Goods and on my Twitter because next time you see this girl you probably won’t recognize me under my 10-gallon hat.

Words: Anne-Marie Schiefer