“I can’t keep checking my phone.” So goes the modern lament of our digital age and the catchy chorus from New Noise Music Festival headliner, Unknown Mortal Orchestra. It’s also a major reason why I’m glad that live music exists. While watching a great band play, it’s nearly impossible to be anywhere other than in that moment. And there were plenty of excellent performances at this year’s seventh annual New Noise Music Festival to keep us off our devices and firmly planted in the groove.
The Santa Barbara-based festival began in 2009, bringing together artists, musicians, wine, beer, and food vendors, as well as nonprofit and environmental groups; it’s community-building set to a stellar soundtrack.
The weekend started off strong on Friday with a solid set at Velvet Jones. Standouts from the night included Young Million, a Santa Barbara supergroup of sorts featuring Nate Modisette and Erich Riedl from U.S. Elevator, Michael Million from the Blues & Greys, and Kyran Million. The name Young Million suits the band well as their exuberant energy, hopeful quality, and anthemic sound is undeniably youthful. Kyran’s powerhouse vocals soar on hits like the reassuring single “Fine” and the passion in their performance is contagious.