Yep, you read that right: legendary punk/alt-rock pioneer Bob Mould—he of Hüsker Dü, Sugar, and solo fame—will headline the WMSE Backyard BBQ in Humboldt Park on Saturday, August 26. Mould will be joined by his Bob Mould Band for the free summer festival show.
Holy crap.
“WMSE has been on the air for more than 40 years. We owe our listeners, supporters, and the city of Milwaukee heaps of gratitude, which is why we had to go big this year,” says WMSE Station Manager Tom Crawford. “Bob Mould is a pioneer and a genius. He influenced Nirvana, the Pixies, Green Day, and the Foo Fighters. I couldn’t be more proud that he has agreed to play the Backyard BBQ this year.”
Also setting up shop in Humboldt Park’s bandshell that afternoon and early evening will be (in order of appearance) Chicken Wire Empire, Girls Rock Milwaukee, Telethon, and Esso. WMSE DJs will provide music throughout the day.
“As if Bob Mould Band wasn’t enough, Esso, an Afrojam funkbeat band from Chicago, will get everyone on their feet. Wisconsin power punk superstars Telethon will bring the noise. Girls Rock will inspire, and Chicken Wire Empire will generate spontaneous toe-tapping,” says WMSE Music Director Sid McCain. “This incredible lineup reflects how much we love our community. I know it’ll be a memorable day.”
Again: HOLY CRAP.
In addition to music, the 13th annual Backyard BBQ will feature a full day of food trucks, activities, and local craft beer. The event is presented by Lakefront Brewery, and is sponsored by Brady Street Futon, Direct Supply, Milwaukee County Parks, and MSOE.
Mould and his band played Summerfest last year. Unsurprisingly, it ruled.
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