What began in 2023 as a pretty DIY punk affair, held over two days at The East Room, then, last year, moved over to The Cobra with an even more impressive lineup, Jorts Fest, founded by Never Nude Records’ TJ Maher, returns for its third year in bigger and better form than ever, with national headliners and a third home in just as many years: Eastside Bowl, this weekend, June 6 & 7. Self-described as “Nashville’s premier (and ONLY) denim-themed punk fest, where tight bands, tight jorts, and dozens of people coalesce for an unforgettable weekend of celebrating Nashville’s thriving DIY community,” Jorts Fest’s Friday lineup is headed up by Bass Drum of Death, Illuminati Hotties, and Gully Boys, with Laura Jane Grace, MC Lars, and Nashville’s own Nordista Freeze topping Saturday’s slate. Performances will take place in both Eastside Bowl’s main venue and smaller room The ’58, as well as in the lounge in between, and music kicks off at 6 p.m. on Friday and 2 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets are up a bit from prior years (no surprise given the caliber of talent), but are still fairly reasonable at $25 per day, or $40 for the weekend, which is like $1 per band (snag ’em here). If you’re a fan of the punk, indie, alt rock, and emo scene, this might be the most stacked local fest you’ll find all year!
Below, preview some of the lineup highlights, and check out the daily schedules. And for more information, a full lineup playlist, and more, check out the festival’s site.
