Under virtually perfect clear skies, Denver’s Mile High Music Festival offered an eclectic mix of music on five stages over the course of two days. Typically, one thinks of festivals as the ideal time for artists to sit in with other bands. This time, however, there were only a select few. On Saturday, G. Love stepped in and took charge for the final song of Galactic’s set, ‘From the Corner to the Block.’ Widespread Panic headlined both nights, and on Sunday Govt Mules Danny Louis tickled the keys with JoJo Hermann during a version of Holden Oversoul that segued into a drum segment that also featured Wally Ingram on congas.

The diverse line-up was inviting to music lovers of all genres. Saturday’s highlights included: Ani DiFranco, Railroad Earth, Ben Harper & Greyboy Allstars. In addition, Tool played its first show since 2007, delivering its version of ‘art rock’ with complex visuals and powerful experimental sounds. Sunday led way to classics like The Wailers and Buddy Guy, while nurturing regulars in the scene: Gov’t Mule, Robert Randolph and Widespread Panic. Down-to-earth favorites Thievery Corporation, John Butler, and Matisyahu thrilled fans.
Mile High was also perfect warm up for what Colorado is gearing up for the next two weekends: STS9 and Phish at Red Rocks. Report by Annabel Lukins