Watch Every Other Summer

Every Other Summer is a documentary film released in 2015 that chronicles the annual Solid Sound Festival organized by the alternative rock band Wilco. The film, directed by Christoph Green and Brendan Canty, offers an intimate look at the band's creative process, their interactions with fans, and the diverse range of musical acts that perform at the festival.

The centerpiece of the film is a series of interviews with the band members, including frontman Jeff Tweedy, who discuss their motivations for starting the festival and the challenges involved in organizing such an event. Tweedy explains that the festival is meant to be a celebration of the band's music and their artistic community, as well as a way to expose fans to new and exciting music from around the world.

Throughout the film, we see glimpses of the festival's various activities, including performances on multiple stages, art installations, and comedy shows. The film also features interviews with fans who have traveled from far and wide to attend the festival, many of whom express their admiration for Wilco's music and their appreciation for the band's efforts to create a unique and inclusive festival experience.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is the way in which it highlights the collaborative nature of the festival. While Wilco is undeniably the headliner, they are also actively involved in curating the festival's lineup and supporting emerging artists. We see the band members jamming with other performers, hanging out backstage and even cooking food for festival-goers.

The film is also notable for its emphasis on the creative process behind music-making. We see Wilco and other musicians experimenting with new sounds and techniques, often in impromptu jam sessions that capture the energy and spontaneity of the festival. This focus on the creative process serves to underscore the importance of artistic collaboration and experimentation in the world of music.

Overall, Every Other Summer is a captivating and engaging documentary that offers a unique insight into the world of musicianship and the process of organizing a large-scale music festival. The film successfully captures the spirit of the Solid Sound Festival, showcasing the vibrant and diverse community that Wilco has brought together through music. Whether you're a diehard Wilco fan or simply a lover of music, this film is sure to entertain and inspire.

Every Other Summer is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes.