The story of Levitation begins 17 years ago, when the very first Austin Psych Fest was held at the now closed Red Barn music venue in North Austin. The one-day festival featured a performance by local outfit The Black Angels, who went on to help found The Reverberation Appreciation Society. In addition to being the official organizers and curators of Levitation, The Reverberation Appreciation Society also manages artists through their record label, founded in 2010 and boasting acts such as Holy Wave and Ringo Deathstarr.
In keeping with the Austin spirit, Austin Psych Fest was eventually renamed “Levitation” as a nod to psych-rock legends and local group, the 13th Floor Elevators. The innovative group performed at the festival in 2015, celebrating their 50th anniversary and marking the first time the band had performed together in 45 years.
Since 2008, Levitation has hosted a myriad of musical legends and pioneers, ranging from local outfit Ringo Deathstarr to international acts such as The Jesus and Mary Chain and King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard. The festival honors emerging talent alongside major names, such as Brian Wilosn, frontman for The Beach Boys, who performed their iconic album Pet Sounds at the 2016 festival.
This year, Levitation will continue to provide shows across Austin venues as part of its Night Shows programming, including performances from Mdou Moctar, Boy Harsher, and The Dandy Warhols.
During the day, Levitation finds its home at the Palmer Event Center, providing three days of music across two stages. Audiences can look forward to sets by Pavement, Mastodon, TV on the Radio, and much, much more!
Check out some past coverage by KVRX ahead of this year's shows:
Die Spitz, Pleasure Venom, and L7 at Levitation Fest
Ringo Deathstarr at Levitation
Far Out Lounge Brings the Spaced Out Sound of Psyche Fest Alive for Day Two of Levitation