Kilby Block Party 2026: Day One Recap • Salt Lake Journal

Modest Mouse carried out on day certainly one of Kilby Block Party, 2026. Photo by Beehive Photography

Friday at Kilby Block Party got here with a discovery theme. If final yr’s competition felt overly acquainted as a result of the bands on the invoice had been examined and true, this 2026 installment feels somewhat sparkly, full of acts that will or should have loads to show. That’s an excellent house to be in.

London’s Dry Cleaning was model new to my ears, a welcomed shock, a band I’d fortunately and instantly see over once more. Their set felt like a style of a future essential course (date TBD). Salt Lake City native Ritt Momney appeared fairly comfy onstage, dabbling in Bon Iver territory/sounds, however creating one thing altogether distinctive, a sound he’s nonetheless being playful with. It was no shock that Kevin Morby was a flat-out comfy hear, and together with his set got here songs from his new album launched simply days in the past. Having missed Father John Misty each different time I had the chance up to now, his set was nicely well worth the wait. Far too proficient for his personal good. And is there something happier than seeing Japanese Breakfast take the stage by periodically banging a gong? Or seeing power climb 10 notches proper from their first tune when Turnstile gave us “Never Enough”?

It’s hardly a contest — and it wouldn’t make a world of sense if it was — however there was one efficiency that was all however unimaginable to tear my eyes away from. I’ve seen them earlier than, however Modest Mouse placed on an unimaginable present, taking advantage of their time. Maybe it was getting to listen to “Tiny Cities Made Of Ashes” dwell that put an enormous, silly grin on my face. Maybe it was seeing everybody lose it when “Float On” lastly hit. But lead singer Isaac Brock is a stress cooker of a performer. Maybe that’s why he’s so compelling. You’re by no means sure when he’ll explode, however you’re completely sure he’ll, given time. 

Saturday shall be hilariously enjoyable, mark my phrases. Can’t wait to get reacquainted with Clap Your Hands Say Yeah. To sing together with Ben Kweller. The Moss! Alex G! Can’t wait.  

Photography by Natalie Simpson and Nathan Christianson, Beehive Photography

Read extra of our Music protection and get the newest on the Arts and Culture scene in and round Utah. And when you’re right here, subscribe and get six problems with Salt Lake journal, your curated information to the perfect of life in Utah.