Riot Fest 2025 Previews

Rilo Kiley and Sparks

Rilo Kiley

Rilo Kiley is an indie rock band from Los Angeles, originally active from 1998 to 2013 and recently reunited in 2025. The band features Jenny Lewis (vocals/guitar), Blake Sennett (guitar/vocals), Pierre de Reeder (bass), and Jason Boesel (drums).

Musical Style:

Their sound blends indie rock, folk, and pop, with emotionally rich lyrics and strong storytelling. Albums like The Execution of All Things and More Adventurous are considered indie classics, showcasing Jenny Lewis’s evolution into a generational songwriter.

What to Expect at a Rilo Kiley Live Show:

  • Nostalgic and emotional: Their reunion tour is a celebration of their legacy, resonating deeply with fans who grew up with their music.
  • Jenny Lewis’s magnetic presence: Her vocals and stage charisma are central to the experience—expect heartfelt performances and a strong connection with the crowd.
  • A mix of eras: Setlists typically span their full discography, from early lo-fi gems to the polished pop-rock of Under the Blacklight.
  • Warm, communal vibe: Their shows often feel like a shared emotional journey, with fans singing along to beloved tracks like “Portions for Foxes,” “Silver Lining,” and “A Better Son/Daughter.”

Their return has been described as “like reconnecting with family,” and their live shows reflect that—intimate, joyful, and full of heart.

Sparks

Sparks is a legendary American art pop and rock duo formed by brothers Ron Mael (keyboards) and Russell Mael (vocals) in Los Angeles in 1971. Known for their quirky, genre-defying style, Sparks have continuously reinvented themselves across glam rock, synth-pop, new wave, and orchestral pop, all while maintaining their signature wit and theatrical flair.

What to Expect at a Sparks Live Show:

  • Theatrical and eccentric: Their performances are as much visual spectacles as musical ones, with Russell’s animated stage presence contrasting Ron’s stoic demeanor at the keyboard.
  • Genre-spanning setlists: Expect a mix of classics like “This Town Ain’t Big Enough for Both of Us”“The Number One Song in Heaven”, and “Cool Places”, alongside newer material from albums like The Girl Is Crying in Her Latte (2023) and Mad! (2025).
  • Sharp, literate lyrics: Their songs often feature clever wordplay, cinematic references, and satirical takes on pop culture.
  • Dedicated fanbase: Sparks shows attract longtime fans and curious newcomers alike, creating a vibrant, appreciative atmosphere.
  • Polished production: Their live sound is tight and well-crafted, often featuring a full band and multimedia elements.

Sparks are truly one-of-a-kind—equal parts rock concert, performance art, and pop opera.

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