Rocky Mountain High Notes: Song Summit Review

Song Summit structured sign in grassy field.

Photo: Brent Landes

Community

Tucked away in the cozy mountain town of Park City is the uniquely enjoyable Song Summit Festival. Unlike many other festivals, Song Summit focuses on equal parts music, culinary arts, wellness and connection. So, whether you’re looking to jam out to some good tunes, sample some culinary delights, or just soak in the Park City vibes, Song Summit has a little something guests of all backgrounds and ages will enjoy.

I first visited the Summit Village at Library Field. At the Summit Village, patrons could purchase goods from local vendors and artisans like at a farmers’ market. Thanks to the ample amount of tables and seats scattered about, festival-goers could grab a bite to eat from one of several local food vendors and comfortably enjoy their meal. There was also a giant stage setup at the south end of the village where musicians, both local and from out of town, played for attendees.

The first set I caught was by a local SLC band called Over Under. Their whimsical indie, alternative sound blended perfectly with the vibe of Summit Village. And when the bands weren’t playing, the sounds of friendly chatter and children playing filled the air.

I next made my way over to one of the several Summit Labs hosted over the weekend. The lab I attended was hosted by the renowned chef, Sean Brock. Chef Brock’s lab, aptly titled Vinyls & Vittles, featured him sharing Southern-inspired delicacies and music. Attendees were captivated by Chef Brock as he took on the roles of both DJ and chef, simultaneously spinning records while giving a demonstration on preparing oysters. Overall, the lab was both educational and delectable.

Out-of-town rising artists, the Sunstroke Serenaders, took the stage as Chef Brock was wrapping up his lab. As the Sunstroke Serenaders’ laid-back, southern blues sound gently ushered in the evening, I treated myself to a “Sexy Pepperoni Pizza” from Dang Brother Pizza. There is something about a hot brick-oven pizza, cool mountain air, live music and good company that just makes the world feel right.

Lastly, I made my way downtown to the Marquis to catch Jim James’ live acoustic set. It was just James on-stage and he treated the packed crowd to an intimate and emotional performance. James even paid homage to the beloved and recently departed Dolly Parton with a cover of her classic “I Will Always Love You.”

Despite spending a whole afternoon and evening there, I only scratched the tip of the iceberg that is Song Summit. This three-day festival truly is one of a kind and offers attendees community, connection and entertainment through a plethora of live music and culinary arts. I am eagerly looking forward to next year’s Song Summit with anticipation and an appetite.

And before closing out this review, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that the Song Summit Festival is a significant part of the Song Summit Foundation, which is a non-profit organization that, as its mission statement says, is dedicated to harnessing the power of music to transform lives through wellness and education. —Brent Landes