Killjoys make some noise: Chicago’s Douglas Park is back with alternative music festival Riot Fest! Boasting an excellent list of legacy acts across a variety of genres, Riot Fest looks to maintain its solid reputation among the many Chicago festivals once again. Starting 9/16 – 18 in Douglass Park, Riot Fest will be set to go for its 10th year of their annual festival in Chicago that focuses its lineup on rock, punk, alternative, and hip hop genres. After a disappointing cancellation in 2021 due to the pandemic, My Chemical Romance are back and all festival goers are sure to be in attendance to see the band play live again since their hiatus back in 2019. Festival goers will also be happy to see familiar faces in the lineup again such as industrial rock giants Nine Inch Nails or punk legends Misfits (back with original members.) The stage is set and back, bringing three days of rock solid acts across this weekend. Read below to see our preview on each day and what we’re most excited for!
As mentioned, Riot Fest starts this year off with a bang by inviting back the widely anticipated My Chemical Romance! With this being their first tour back following a six year hiatus and this past month ringing in the 20 year anniversary of their debut album ‘I Brought You My Bullets,’ this is a performance for the fans and music lovers alike. The legendary Descendents also hit the main stage following the release of their new album ‘, 9th & Walnut,’ earlier this year. In between and leading up to them, the lineup is decked out with incredible acts that are sure to make the wait well worth it. From notable classics Alkaline Trio and Taking Back Sunday to up and coming Destroy Boys and CLIFFDIVER, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Misfits are back once again and not only with original members Danzig, Only, and Doyle returning, they will also be playing their entire critically acclaimed debut album “Walk Among Us” in its entirety. This is something that is sure not to be missed, as bringing exclusive legacy acts back together is a signature part of Riot Fest’s reputation. The undercard for the day is nothing to scoff at either with strong candidates such as Yellowcard, Front Bottoms, Together Pangea, and Mothica. Yellowcard with their only show of 2022 is another reunion set to be sure not to miss. While Front Bottoms are sure to bring an energy heavy set filled with noise perfect for Riot Fest attendees.
Voted the number one act in Riot Fest’s history by its fans, Nine Inch Nails return to its stage for another can’t miss set. Festival goers will be sure to see why they’ve earned this title as they rock the mainstage this Sunday. An act close enough to shake their spot at the top makes their Riot Fest debut, welcoming Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Notorious for frontwoman Karen O’s heart shattering vocals and electrifying stage presence, these New York legends are sure to give fans a show that makes their nine year hiatus well worth the wait. While these acts are sure to top festival goers’ lists, the day also lends ample time to on the rise artists across several different genres that will make it easy to lose track of the headliners! The Linda Lindas and Mom Jeans are making their first Riot Fest splash amongst the waves of anticipated comeback acts such as the Juliana Theory and Treaty of Paris!
Widely sought after headliners such as My Chemical Romance and Nine Inch Nails will now finally be at Riot Fest. However, there is definitely much more to be seen at the fest with a heavy lineup sure to fulfill any rock fans desire for noise. Among the legacy acts are still incredible acts showcasing how punk and rock are very much alive and doing well in the modern age. Which is what Riot Fest is all about, bringing the best of rock, punk, and alternative together. It is sure to be one of Riot Fest ‘s best years to date!
For the full lineup, check below! Be sure to check back on Road Trip Playlists for further coverage and reviews on Riot Fest 2022!
