Versus sits down with Music Group co-chair Dave Silverstein to discuss the exciting and diverse lineup for Rites of Spring 2008.

Versus Magazine: What can students expect from this year's festival?
Dave Silverstein: The weekend will be action-packed. The Music Group has tried to craft an experience from which Vanderbilt students can truly get a taste of Music City and what it has to offer.

VM: What goals did the Music Group have in attaining a lineup for Rites of Spring?
DS: We are looking to create a diverse lineup that's high in energy.The music group wants to create a true festival atmosphere. We want to bring the best talent in all genres, from blues to hip-hop, pop to rock and folk, and so forth.

VM: How does this lineup compare to those of the past in your opinion?
DS: This year we wanted to make sure we brought in artists that were critically acclaimed within their genres but also had considerable name recognition. We wanted musicians whose sounds would come together to create a well-rounded festival at all points during the weekend. In my
time working with The Music Group, we have never had a stronger supporting lineup.

VM: Do you seek to book bands that are diverse in nature or is that something that just happens naturally?
DS: We specifically make sure we consider as many genres as possible. Sitting in on a Music Group meeting is kind of like watching a kid in a candy store - the sky is the limit with the different types of combinations of sounds and artists that we put together for the Vanderbilt community. We are looking to cater to all different music tastes. As far as the committee makeup, all the individuals bring their own sets of musical tastes and expertise and are able to work together
to craft one of America's largest student-run music festivals.

VM: What lesser-known acts do you want students to be aware of?
DS: Hill Country Revue featuring the North Mississippi All Stars will tear the house down on Alumni Lawn. Grace Potter and the Nocturnals will also bring a high-energy performance that students should look forward to. And while not lesser-known, Old Crow Medicine Show won't hold back playing in their hometown on Vanderbilt's campus.

VM: What made Lil Jon stand out among other artists in the hip hop and rap genre?

DS: Lil Jon is the epitome of a high-energy, charismatic
performer. Not only does he have music that appeals to all types of listeners, but his dynamic personality has become iconic, one that transcends music and instead relates to culture. We thought would make a fantastic last act for Rites of Spring, ending the festival on a really high note.

VM: For students who are not familiar with the music of Old Crow Medicine Show, what is the band about and why should students get excited for their performance?

DS: For me, when I think about Old Crow, their specific
sound is hard to place within a subgenre of country music. Some people argue that they are bluegrass, others think they are acoustic honky tonk, but for me they represent an all-encompassing sound of Nashville — their songs are gritty and edgy while maintaining a light-hearted and sometimes emotional attitude and tone. With that said, I think their sound is extremely user-friendly, whether you know all of their songs or don’t know a single one, everyone can rally around it and enjoy their performance at Rites of Spring.

VM: This year, three female musicians (Feist, Colby Caillat
and Grace Potter of Grace Potter and The Nocturnals) occupy spots high on the list of performers, which is something we haven’t seen in past Rites’ lineups. Was this a deliberate
decision to pursue female musicians, or did their selection happen naturally?

DS: The ultimate goal of The Music Group is to create a
lineup comprised of critically acclaimed artists. We want to get the best representation from every genre that we can bring into the mix with the best sounds that are out there. This year we did exactly that, and pursued the sounds that we thought would make this year’s Rites of Spring unique and well rounded. My rule of thumb is that great music isn’t gendered. With that, I am
pleased to be able to bring three very powerful female artists to Rites and give the Vanderbilt community exposure to their different sounds; Grace Potter’s blues-influenced rock n’ roll sound, Feist’s unique breed of indie folk, and Colby Caillat’s acoustic pop. All three performances will be highly anticipated.