By Denton Josey, Features Editor
The Homecoming steering committee will introduce a new feature to JamFest on Friday with the inclusion of a second stage for the performers.
The lineup boasts 10 acts this year, and in an effort to reduce time between sets, the JamFest organizers created a twostage format that allows bands to set up while another band is performing.
Megan Walters, senior psychology major from Rowlett, coordinated Jam- Fest for her part on the Homecoming steering committee. She said new music and new faces at this year’s JamFest offer something for everyone.
“We have everything from Christian pop-rock to classic/southern rock bands and semi-emo,” Walters said. “It’s kind of just a spectrum.”
JamFest began during Homecoming 2004 with its current format, which features a lineup and auditions before the show.
“As we get more experience in putting on the show, better venues or set-up for the show, it improves,” Walters said. “We always hope to get better every year.”
This year, 15 acts auditioned, and 10 made the cut. Some of the performers have played JamFest before, but either with different bands or different members.
“Our idea this year is ‘discover your new favorite band,’ because people haven’t seen these performers before, at least not in this style,” Walters said.
One such band is Abilene-based O Scarlet, comprised of brother-duo Rodrigo and Carlos Macias. Last year, the band played with four members but now performs with two.
Alumnus Rodrigo Macias (’06) said O Scarlet has redefined its sound as a result of losing members and now explores different genres. “In Friday’s set we’ll go from country to funk; that’s how broad the spectrum is,” Macias said. “You’ll have to go to the show and see it for yourself.”
The musicians aren’t paid, but in addition to gaining a fan base, bands can sell merchandise. Walters said JamFest T-shirts are also on sale for $5. Macias said people should come to the show because it offers an entertainment option in a town where many people complain for lack of things to do.
“Just go out there to JamFest, chill and enjoy some good music,” Macias said. “Then you’ll probably leave and have a couple of bands you’ll want to see again.”
JamFest begins at 5:30 p.m. on the lawn of Zona Luce and ends at 11 p.m.
