It was a very busy weekend for music in Brooklyn! From Todd P’s Midsummer Party at The Yard to The Breeders free show at McCarren Pool, it was impossible to see everything, but I managed to check out over twenty bands over the course of three days. Here are some highlights…

Activists/Dictators rocked Goodbye Blue Monday on Friday night, snuggled perfectly in between Pass Kontrol and the ferocious Turbosleaze (aka Balls Balls Balls Vagina). A/D incorporated a unique sense of humor to their live show, which only added to the band’s entertaining set.

Although Todd P’s party on Saturday didn’t actually take place in Bushwick, it was certainly very Bushwick-esque. Featuring over 15 ‘on the cusp’ bands, highlights of the day included sets by the mindblowing Titus Andronicus, Vivian Girls, Crystal Antlers, Shy Child, High Places, Ponytail, and the kookily named Knyfe Hyts. The event was an awesome success, prompting me to wonder when something like this will go down in Bushwick.

Things cooled down Sunday at Goodbye Blue Monday, with up and coming drummer Jason Ewald and his contemporary jazz quartet. The late afternoon jazz barbecue was presented by talented saxophonist Ted Hefko, who joined Ewald for a number of songs. The refreshing set was only enhanced by the unplanned smoke effects emanating from the barbecue grill. This was the perfect end to a fantastic weekend in Brooklyn.