Norman Music Festival 5 began last night with loud music, no cash and good beer.
The main attraction, based on quantity of people present, was easily the Opolis. The street in front of the venue was blocked off between Main Street and Gray Street in order for the crowds to spill out of the small space.
The main three bands that played at the Opolis were Shi++ty/Awesome, Woods and Olivia Tremor Control. Shi++y/Awesome gave the audience exactly what it expected based on the band's name. There was nothing to complex to its music, but pretty good all the same.
Woods' performance was good as well, but the crowd at the Opolis is what made the shows. There were so many people trying to get a chance to actually see the bands whose music was pouring out. Even if the bands were not life-changing shows, the crowd seemed like it, which made it better.
The crowd wanted to get into the Opolis so bad that the fire marshal had to come and regulate capacity. There was no need to be discourage if there was not enough room, however, because the music from the Opolis was so loud that going inside was not necessary to hear the bands perfectly.
The Opolis wasn't the only hopping place Thursday night. Bison Witches and McNellie's were pretty crowded considering they were not hosting any live music, but they were great places to stop and get a drink since a lot of bars like the Opolis and The Bluebonnet only took cash.
So, word of advice, bring cash so you don't miss seeing your favorite band because you have to run to the ATM.
The other venues that did have music going on for the festival were pretty packed, as well. The Bluebonnet Stage fluctuated in crowd size based on who was playing, but The Garage looked to be consistently crowded with people who prefer DJs to live music. Bill & Dee's also fluctuated throughout the night.
The kickoff of Norman Music Festival was just a taste of what the next few days are going to bring. There will be more bands, louder music and more venues. From the experience of the first night festival goers for the next two days need to bring cash and get to the venue early for their favorite bands, because places are sure to be at full capacity and not as resonating as the Opolis.
Westlee Parsons is a English literature senior.
