This year’s Ohana Fest was a raging success. With a lineup boasting names of such a wide variety, every music taste was represented. Ohana lived up to its title by bringing a diverse group of music lovers together to create one big welcoming family.
Day One brought in many country lovers with Eric Church, Nikki Lane and Norah Jones headlining. Jake Smith from White Buffalo captured the audience on the Tiki Stage. He spoke of growing up in Huntington Beach and how Ohana feels like coming home.
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The John Doe Folk Trio was another stand out band at the Tiki Stage. They are unique and really know how to work the crowd. Everyone was dancing and having the best time.
Day Two brought all of the Pearl Jam fans together with Eddie Vedder headlining. Johnny Marr, Bahamas, NoMBe and Yeah Yeah Yeahs were some standout acts on this sunny California day.
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Johnny Marr, guitarist and songwriter of the Smiths, drew his Smiths fans in with his solo work. The Bahamas brought in a chill, laid back vibe that fit the beach venue perfectly. Their fun back up vocals and beachy guitar was a fresh break from all the rock.
NomBe rocked the Tiki Stage with his impeccable stage presence. He demands attention with his dance moves and unique vocal tone singing “California Girls” and “Freak Like Me”.
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“Can I hear all my ladies out there? My new album is all about women” NoMBe said.
They Might’ve Even Loved Me is dedicated to and all about the women in his life. He has an all female band and creative team. NoMBe brings a new and exciting perspective to the music world and we can’t wait to see where his art takes him.
Karen O of The Yeah Yeah Yeahs brought the wild energy that she is well known for to thier performance. She commands the stage as the music powers through the eagerly awaiting crowd. Her sound and fashion never fail to disappoint.
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Day Three brought all the Mumford and Sons lovers together along with fans of Young the Giant, Switchfoot, and Beck.
Everyone was in a great mood on this beautiful afternoon. Young the Giant danced around on stage while the audience sang along to their songs and Beck got every last fan on their feet.
“I feel very at home tonight like I’m in a friend’s backyard playing for you” Beck said.
Ohana Fest brought a family of music lovers to Doheny State Beach to enjoy a weekend of inspiring and dance evoking entertainment. It was the perfect escape and we hope to be back again next year.
Keep an eye on the Ohana Fest Website for updates on next years festivities.
-review by Meagan Wade
-all photos courtesy of Hannah Rexinger
