Introducing Riot Fest 2024 Headliners: Fall Out Boy, The Offspring, Beck, Pavement, Slayer, Rob Zombie

by Adam Bailey
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Riot Fest, the legendary punk rock and alternative music festival, is back with exciting announcements for 2024. Set to take place from September 20-22 at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois, the festival will feature over 90 bands across three days. This year's event also introduces RiotLand, an immersive "Choose Your Own Adventure" world that promises to enhance the festival experience. Despite moving from its longtime home in Chicago due to issues with the Park District, Riot Fest is excited to bring this expanded version of RiotLand to both the festival grounds.

Here's an introduction to the main headliners:

  • Friday, September 20: Fall Out Boy, The Offspring
  • Saturday, September 21: Beck, Pavement
  • Sunday, September 22: Slayer, Rob Zombie

Fall Out Boy

Emerging from the vibrant punk rock scene of Chicago, Fall Out Boy has become one of the most iconic bands of the 2000s pop-punk era. Known for their catchy hooks, emotionally charged lyrics, and energetic live performances, the band made a major impact with their breakthrough album, "From Under the Cork Tree" (2005), featuring hits like "Sugar, We're Goin Down" and "Dance, Dance." After a hiatus, they reunited in 2013 and have continued to evolve their sound, blending rock, pop, and electronic elements. Their return to Riot Fest is highly anticipated, marking their first appearance at the festival since their reunion in 2013.

The Offspring

The Offspring are stalwarts of the punk rock scene, having achieved mainstream success in the 1990s with their third album, "Smash," which remains the best-selling album released on an independent label. Known for their high-energy performances and socially conscious lyrics, their hits like "Self Esteem," "Come Out and Play," and "Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)" have become anthems for multiple generations of punk fans. At Riot Fest, they will perform "Smash" in its entirety, promising a nostalgic trip for longtime fans.

Beck

Beck Hansen, known mononymously as Beck, is a genre-defying artist who has continually reinvented his sound throughout his career. Rising to fame with the 1994 single "Loser," Beck has explored a wide range of musical styles, including folk, funk, soul, hip-hop, and electronic. His eclectic discography includes critically acclaimed albums such as "Odelay," "Sea Change," and "Morning Phase," which won the Grammy for Album of the Year in 2015. Beck's innovative approach to music and dynamic live shows make him a standout performer at this year's festival.

Pavement

Pavement is a seminal indie rock band that emerged from the American underground scene in the late 1980s. Known for their lo-fi sound, witty lyrics, and nonchalant attitude, they became cult favorites with albums like "Slanted and Enchanted" and "Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain." Despite disbanding in 1999, Pavement's influence has persisted, and their rare performances are eagerly awaited by fans old and new. Their Riot Fest appearance is a significant event, offering a rare chance to see this influential band live.

Slayer

Slayer, one of the "Big Four" of thrash metal, has been a defining force in the genre since the early 1980s. Renowned for their aggressive sound, dark themes, and technical prowess, they have produced landmark albums like "Reign in Blood," "South of Heaven," and "Seasons in the Abyss." Slayer's intense live performances and uncompromising style have earned them a loyal following and critical acclaim. Their reunion at Riot Fest is a major highlight, promising a powerful and unforgettable show.

Rob Zombie

Rob Zombie is a multifaceted artist known for his work as a musician, filmmaker, and screenwriter. As the frontman of White Zombie, he gained fame with a fusion of heavy metal and industrial rock, producing hits like "Thunder Kiss '65" and "More Human than Human." His solo career has been equally successful, with albums such as "Hellbilly Deluxe" and "The Sinister Urge" featuring his distinctive blend of horror-themed lyrics and hard-hitting music. Beyond music, Zombie has directed numerous horror films, including "House of 1000 Corpses" and the "Halloween" remakes. His theatrical and high-energy live performances make him a standout act at Riot Fest.

NOFX will perform all three days as part of their farewell tour, joined by peers like Pennywise, Descendents, and Circle Jerks.

Notable Acts:

  • Friday: Public Enemy, The Marleys, Sum 41, Cypress Hill, New Found Glory, Polaris, The Warning, Hot Mulligan, State Champs, Circle Jerks, Zheani, The Exploited, Spiritual Cramp, Poison The Well, The Lawrence Arms, Action/Adventure, Get Dead, The Defiant
  • Saturday: St. Vincent, Bright Eyes, Manchester Orchestra (performing "Cope"), Spoon, Beach Bunny, Waxahatchee, Buzzcocks, Jack Kays, Rival Sons, Clutch, Lord of the Lost, The Dead Milkmen, Drug Church, Health, The Hives, Taking Back Sunday, Laura Jane Grace + Catbite, Princess Goes
  • Sunday: Sublime with Jakob Nowell, Dr. Dog, Oliver Tree, Tierra Whack, Lamb Of God, Loveless, Suicidal Tendencies, Mastodon (performing "Leviathan"), Something Corporate, GEL, The Mysterines, Sunami, The Vandals, Nekrogoblikon, Strung Out, GWAR, Cursive, Swingin’ Utters, Saxsquatch, Doom Scroll, Fiddlehead, Huge Euge

Single-day and three-day consignment tickets will be available at Bucket O’ Blood in Chicago and Rushmor in Milwaukee without added fees.

Enhanced Shuttle Service:

Riot Fest introduces a comprehensive shuttle service to SeatGeek Stadium from various points around Chicago, including areas near aftershows, neighborhoods, and public transit hubs. There will also be extended bus service from Midway Airport throughout the festival. For more details and to book seats, visit Riot Fest Shuttle Service. Additional travel information will be continuously updated at Getting to RiotLand.

Community Band Contest:

Staying true to its roots, Riot Fest is hosting a band contest for residents of Little Village and North Lawndale. The winning band will join the festival lineup. With over 50 submissions already in, the deadline is August 5th at midnight CT. For more information, visit Community Band Submission.

Adam Bailey
Author: Adam Bailey
Adam is a regular contributor for established press release distribution website Release-News.com. He writes on a wide range of topics including music.

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