Although I haven't attended, I am totally down with the Bonnaroo concept of peace, love and eclectic jam bands, and I have no problem with declaring this year's show another success - the numbers speak for themselves. But what I don't get is an extended pat on one's back that conveniently leaves out the fact that this year two PEOPLE DIED. I'm not blaming the festival - it's amazing no one died the first two years with that number of people getting stoned and running around - but to crow about the success of the festival and not even acknowledge this unfortunate news is disrespectful and disingenuous:

BONNNAROO 2004 HERALDED AS A SUCCESS

For the third straight year, Bonnaroo, the nation's largest music and camping festival, is being heralded by fans, critics, artists, and the music industry as both a musical and logistical success. "I think it's really the first festival in America to be this successful, if for no other reason than celebrating music," said festival performer Dave Matthews during a backstage press conference. "People come to hang out in the middle of nowhere to smell each other's funk and listen to great eclectic music from all corners of the industry."

Each year, Bonnaroo's eclectic lineup and open-minded audience gives rise to unique entertainment options and monumental live music moments. Guitar visionary Adrian Belew joined a reunited Primus during a 2 a.m. performance on the second stage. Kentucky rock band My Morning Jacket played a transcendental set through afternoon rain. Dave Matthews & Friends, with Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio, delivered a spirited set of Matthews favorites, funk covers, and Phish sing-along staples. Fans at Bonnaroo 2004 also saw exceptional performances by a range of acts that swept the style spectrum, including rock band Kings of Leon, bluegrass legend Doc Watson, punk rock veteran Patti Smith, and the '80s alternative rock hybrid of Camper Van Beethoven and Cracker. The festival's final slot belonged to Anastasio, who treated the adoring crowd to a set of songs from his solo album arranged for the 40-piece Nashville Chamber Orchestra, and a second set of songs by his ten-member band, punctuated by a grand fireworks display. As MTV.com noted, "It's one thing to hear artists, fans, promoters, and publicists
pay lip service to Bonnaroo's vibe, its sense of musical community, and the likeminded attitude that its seemingly disparate acts share. But it's quite another thing to feel them firsthand."

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