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This year’s Coachella will be remembered for many things: Blur’s final show (apparently), Grimes’ “technical difficulties,” Billie Eilish joining Lana Del Rey, Kid Cudi’s broken foot. But more than anything, Coachella 2024 will go down in the history books as Skachella. On this bonus episode of In Defense of Ska, we explore how ska unexpectedly took over Indio, and you can listen above or wherever you get your podcasts.
Ska simply dominated the headlines the came out of the Empire Polo Club over the past two weekends. And it makes perfect sense, considering Coachella’s bookings this year. Sublime returned with Jakob Nowell fronting the band in place of his dad, the late Bradley Nowell. No Doubt reunited for their first show in nine years, leaning heavily on ska sounds, including when they welcomed guest Olivia Rodrigo for “Bathwater.” Aquabats played a nearly 70% ska set, and even Vampire Weekend dropped some ska-influenced tunes while drummer Chris Tomson was sporting a Skankin’ Pickle shirt.
Which all begs the question: Was this the most ska Coachella has ever had? If not, then why does ska feel like such a dominant part of Coachella’s story in 2024? We answer these questions as we dive into Skachella on this episode of In Defense of Ska. Listen now, and make sure to like, review, and follow the series wherever you get your podcast. You can also check out a complete gallery of photos from Coachella 2024 below.
IDOS fans can get early and ad-free episodes by joining the show’s Patreon, and don’t forget to check out all the Consequence Podcast Network series here. Additionally, you can support the In Defense host Aaron Carnes by purchasing a copy of his book, In Defense of Ska. The 2nd, expanded edition will be released in Oct 2024.
Photo Gallery – Coachella Music Festival 2024 Weekend One (click to expand and scroll through):