Most folks need a good couple days of heavy sleep and electrolytes to recover from a weekend-long music festival binge. But after a two-day visit to Cloverleaf Farm outside Athens, GA, for the second summer installment of Wildwood Revival, we’re feeling more refreshed, replenished and inspired than ever. And even through the rain (BOY, did it rain,) the festival was the event of the season.
Above all else, Wildwood Revival focuses on community. Serving locally grown and prepared meals alongside cold Georgia-brewed beer, inviting local artisans to set up shop displaying handmade leather goods, jewelry and vintage clothing, and procuring a solid musical lineup including several Southeastern favorites, the farm was buzzing with positivity and patronage. With only a few hundred attendees, guests were able to avoid lengthy lines, meander through common areas with ease and always find a good spot for enjoying the live entertainment. Keeping the festival relatively small (and friendly for all ages) also encouraged environmental conscientiousness, as drinks were served in mason jars and other reusable containers and food on biodegradable plates, and each guest made an effort to keep the farm as pleasant as it was when ze arrived.
Nashville was well represented, with Electric Western (the guys behind KEEP ON MOVIN’ Mondays at The 5 Spot) spinning the records at the Saturday night dance party, Hot Yoga of East Nashville instructing a Saturday morning class and hometown heroes Blackfoot Gypsies supplying the bluesy rock ‘n’ roll.
Other standout bluegrass/Americana acts included Darnell Boys, Lindi Ortega, Water Liars, Tall Tall Trees, Strung Like a Horse and American Aquarium, although honestly, there wasn’t a weak link in the entire lineup.
This review wouldn’t be complete without mention of the scenic campsite, tintype photography, Gospel brunch (complete with biscuit bar and Bloody Marys,) wiffle ball tournament and communal bonfire under a full moon. And our plans for next summer won’t be complete without a revisit to Wildwood Revival. -Caroline Bowman