The BUKU Music + Art Project is this weekend, March 10 and 11, in New Orleans. Founded in 2012, the festival is known for its house party feel and underground arts community. If you’re heading down to the festival, these are some of the acts you just can’t pass up:
Friday
Travis Scott- 9:45 p.m., Power Plant stage
Houston rapper Travis Scott shot to worldwide fame with the release of his sophomore album “Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
His songs seem to be on repeat at any club or party, including “goosebumps,” “beibs in the trap” and “through the late night.” Scott is the biggest headlining act performing Friday and is sure to put on a wild show. Be sure to get there early to beat the crowd for this one.
2. Young Thug- 6 p.m., Power Plant stage
Young Thug hails from Atlanta and is known for his androgynous fashion, eccentric persona and rap style. His most notable discography to date is his most recent mixtape, “Jeffery.”
Some of his hits include “Wyclef Jean,” “Best Friend” and collaboration with fellow headliner Travis Scott on “Pick Up the Phone.” Rumor has it they might perform together, which would make for a truly unforgettable set.
3. Car Seat Headrest- 5:15 p.m., Ballroom
For those looking for something a little different than the mostly rap and EDM lineup, Car Seat Headrest is the band to see.
This indie rock group from Virginia is best known for its most recent album, “Teens of Denial,” which was met with critical acclaim and a cult following. Be sure to listen to “Drunk Drivers / Killer Whales” and “Fill in the Blank” before their set.
4. Sleigh Bells- 9 p.m., Ballroom
This duo from Brooklyn is best described as “noise pop” with their combinations of guitar riffs, electronic beats and smooth vocals. They are best known for their debut album “Treats” and hits like “Infinity Guitars,” “Rill Rill” and “Crown on the Ground.”
Their latest album “Jessica Rabbit” also boasts promising songs. Sleigh Bells is sure to be one of the more interesting BUKU acts.
5. Thundercat- 7:30 p.m., Ballroom
Thundercat is a Los Angeles based singer and bass guitarist who has worked with artists like Kendrick Lamar, Erykah Badu and Flying Lotus.
He has a very distinct, intriguing sound and is a great act to see between the day’s headliners. Check out “Walk on By” and “Show You the Way” from his most recent album “Drunk” to get a feel for this one man show.
Saturday
Run the Jewels- 8 p.m., Power Plant stage
Run the Jewels is a hip hop group made up of rappers Killer Mike and El-P. With their mix of satisfying beats and fluid, in-your-face raps, they have catapulted to fame.
Their most recent release, “Run the Jewels 3” debuted in the Billboard Top 40 and includes hits “Legend Has It” and “Call Ticketron.” This is definitely the biggest act on Saturday, and these BUKU regulars are sure to deliver yet another solid show.
2. Cashmere Cat- 8:45 p.m., Float Den
Another BUKU regular, this Norwegian DJ always has impressive sets with remixes of popular songs from the likes of Lana Del Rey and 2 Chainz, along with his own smooth, melodic beats.
Cashmere Cat isn’t your typical EDM DJ. His continuous electronic set is enjoyable and relaxing. Some of his hits include “Mirror Maru” and “Kiss Kiss.” Even if you aren’t the biggest EDM fan, Cashmere Cat is a must see.
3. Vince Staples- 9 p.m., Ballroom
Staples, a rapper from Long Beach, California, started making a name for himself after the release of his debut album “Summertime ‘06.”,.
His songs are irresistibly catchy, and he raps as well as today’s industry heavyweights. He definitely earns his place as a headliner next to Scott and Young Thug. Check out “Blue Suede,” “Norf Norf” and “Senorita” to get excited for this show.
4. Zhu- 11:45 p.m., Float Den
This Chinese-American EDM artist previously kept his identity a secret until recently. Not only does he remix songs from popular artists like Outkast, he has also teamed up with impressive acts like Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and New Orleans’ own Trombone Shorty.
The beats he creates, mixed with dreamy vocals, make listeners want to dance long into the night. Listen to “Automatic,” “Working For It” and “Hometown Girl” to get a grasp on what Zhu is all about.
5. 21 Savage- 12 a.m., Ballroom
Closing out BUKU is Atlanta rapper 21 Savage, best known for his recent release “Savage Mode.” His aggressive yet smooth lyrics paired with pleasing hooks make for catchy songs and a good end to the fest. Some of his most popular songs are “X” and “No Heart.”
