Psychic Salamander Festival with Yo La Tengo, The Flaming Lips, and more

Born from the vibrant indie rock scene, Yo La Tengo, led by Ira Kaplan and Georgia Hubley, became iconic for their melodic noise-pop fusion. Influenced by acts like Velvet Underground and Sun Ra, they formed in 1984. Known for albums like "I Can Hear the Heart Beating as One" and "Painful," they've experimented across genres, featuring a mix of covers and originals. Collaborations span De La Soul to David Byrne. Their self-produced projects, including "This Stupid World," showcase their artistic independence, while critical acclaim has cemented their legacy in the alternative music scene.

The Flaming Lips, formed in 1983 in Oklahoma City, are acclaimed for their psychedelic, experimental alternative rock. Known for hits like "She Don't Use Jelly," they gained fame in the '90s and won a Grammy for 2002's "Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots." Collaborations include Miley Cyrus and Kacey Musgraves. Notable albums are "The Soft Bulletin" and "American Head," showcasing their unique sound and emotional depth.

Friko, formed in 2019 by Niko Kapetan & Bailey Minzenberger, is a Chicago indie rock duo blending post-punk, chamber-pop & experimental rock. Their debut, "Where we’ve been, Where we go from here" on ATO Records, features explosive and raw tracks. Known for high-energy shows at venues like Metro and Schubas Tavern, they performed at Bonnaroo. The album, mastered by Heba Kadry and engineered by Jack Henry and Scott Tallarida, reflects their Romantic-era classical and art-rock inspirations.

Portland supergroup Sun Atoms, led by Jsun Atoms, features The Dandy Warhols' Peter Holmström. Their debut, "Let There Be Light," blends droning electronics and dayglo melodies, mixed by Stephen Street and featuring Alex Maas of The Black Angels.

Formed in Olympia, WA, Sleater-Kinney rose to fame with their 1997 album "Dig Me Out," listed among Rolling Stone's top 500 albums. Known for a successful comeback with "No Cities To Love," collaborations with St. Vincent and Wilco, and a tour hitting iconic venues.