I’D BEEN HEARING for years from reliable sources (the Mercury’s last two music editors, Ezra Ace Caraeff and Ned Lannamann) that Pickathon is truly the best music festival around. It’s not that I didn’t believe them—I just never managed to get myself out there. It also didn’t help that I don’t own a tent or any camping gear, so I was never quite sure how I’d tackle such an event. But I finally made my way to Pickathon this year, and it certainly did not disappoint. Seeing Thee Oh Sees go HAM in the middle of the Oregon woods is so much cooler than seeing them go HAM in an indoor venue or at SXSW (yawn). I wasn’t sure how fest-goers would be dressed, as it’s a very kid-friendly camping event—but actually, people looked pretty good despite all the dirt. Before we get to my pics, a few final thoughts: Why isn’t every festival sustainable? And if you’re interested, I did sort of camp one night. Thanks to my girl Sadie for sharing her tent. Oh, and to the bee who stung me? FU!
(Psst! If I took your picture and you’re not here, there are more shots online at portlandspretty.com.)
