The Anti-Social Guide to Osheaga 2024

If you are a true Montrealer, you’re probably exhausted by the time you are reading this. Between the extremes of the seasons and non-stop access to shows, concerts, festivals, movies, it feels like we can just never stop. Living in this city sometimes feels like you have a shiny all-access pass to an amusement park. You want to make the most of everything so you try to cram all the fun into one day. And perhaps the most anticipated ride of them all? The dazzling, neon roller coaster Osheaga, complete with loops, dives and upside-down twists and turns. Ready and waiting for you at the end of the summer.

I was stunned when I got approved for the media coverage for this year’s edition. The last time I attended the festival was way back in 2013. What I remember mostly was first, being pure of heart and second, that The Cure and New Order were headlining. Since then, I have been living through other people’s experiences and watching from the outside how our collective definition of Osheaga has been evolving. 

Because, whether you like it or not, Osheaga has become a cultural tower here in Montreal. Since it started in 2006, it seems to have no plans of slowing down, and at this point in the year, it’s starting to seem like it's everywhere. The first buzz from the festival always comes with the announcement of their lineup. That’s when everyone you know from your cool co-workers, to your not-so-cool bosses asks, “did you see who’s playing at Osheaga?”. 

This year there are, of course, the usual big draws with artists who are no stranger to Virgin Radio’s Top 40. But whether you're an indie kid or a normie, everyone is talking about Chappell Roan. Although. there is some concern - first off, why her name is so far down on the bill and also why she’s playing at sunny 3:30PM? Ticket holders ask these questions, but can’t really complain too much. This is an amazing opportunity to catch the newly crowned princess of pop and is one of the most anticipated events at the festival. People are also excited about the 90s rock throwback on Saturday with Smashing Pumpkins, Green Day and Rancid amongst others performing. Allowing the kids to check their favourite bands they grew up with off their concert bucket list. 

But what about college radio weirdos like you or me? Don’t you fret! There are some really cool emerging and independent artists at the festival as well. Personally, I am really excited to see Arlo Parks bring her quiet sensitivity to the big stage. I am ready to rock with Mannequin Pussy, Blonde Redhead, Alvvays and DIIV. And to dance solo to Romy, Sofia Kourtesis and The Japanese House. It’s also great to see so many talented Canadian artists up there on the bill, such as Myst Milano, Cadence Weapon, and DVTR, who by the way, have a great following here at CJLO. Maybe, just maybe I will also attend Sleater-Kinney, but not without my hand-made sign saying “Where’s Janet?”

I will be heading to the festival solo as they only gave us one media pass. It will definitely be an interesting experience to be a lone fish in a sea of people. Who knows, maybe I’ll latch on to other people’s plans and become a third, fifth or even seventh wheel. Maybe I will buy my friends tickets as early birthday presents to avoid loneliness. Or maybe I will lean into it completely and go in disguise to avoid any social interactions.

If you want to find out more, you’re going to have to stay tuned for my review post-festival. If you gare heading out there, hope you enjoy your time!

Lisa Rupnik is the station manager at CJLO and co-host of The Last Stop. She is also an avid record collector, a “no nonsense” film lover and feels that her personality can be best defined by her two favourite bands: YMO and Sparks.