Commonsfest Brings Live Music and Vintage Finds to Knoxville
Knoxville, TN — On October 20, 2024, the air was buzzing with excitement as The Commons, an apartment complex nestled in the heart of the Fort, hosted the second annual “Commonsfest — Ghostly Groove.” This lively block party followed a big win for the Tennessee Volunteers, making it the perfect setting to keep the celebration going.
The festival offered homegrown vibes with live music, an array of delightful food options, and a treasure trove of vintage clothing. The tantalizing aroma of chicken tacos from Rom Pablo’s food truck filled the air, drawing in residents eager to kick back and enjoy everything the event had to offer.
From Jam Sessions to Block Party
The idea for Commonsfest was born two years ago when Alex Elkins, a junior philosophy major at UT and lead singer of the band Anthropology, began hosting jam sessions in the parking lot of The Commons. Fast forward to today, and the festival has grown, featuring not just local music but an entire market filled with food and thrift vendors.
As the music commenced, the first performer to take the stage was solo artist Mercy Hanson. Her powerful rock vocals set the perfect tone for the day, welcoming the crowd to what would become an unforgettable evening. To keep the upbeat energy flowing during breaks, DJ Y$N spun some tunes, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere. Darius Williams, who regularly DJs at these events, also has his own radio show at B97.5 and a podcast, ensuring that Knoxville’s music scene feels ever-present.
Eclectic Sounds from Local Bands
The lineup boasted several talented acts, each bringing their unique style to the stage. The local band Autopilot roared into their set with a friendly warning—this was not a time to sit back! The crowd responded by rising to their feet, irresistibly drawn to the band’s energetic sound.
Next up, we were serenaded by Paperview, newcomers from Nashville who showcased a delightful mix of indie sounds. Featuring a trumpet player, a saxophonist, and even an accordion, they held the crowd’s attention with their soulful melodies. Max Rees, the lead singer, described their influences, drawing parallels to bands like Pinegrove and Cage the Elephant. Their sound was a refreshing bonus for the crowd, adding to the diversity of the evening.
Finally, the stage was lit up for Anthropology, which naturally had the crowd grooving under the parking lot twinkle lights. Their latest album, “Common Ground,” released mere weeks ago, filled the air with vibes that sparked connections among everyone gathered.
Vintage Gems and Sustainable Shopping
As if the live music wasn’t enough, the outdoor thrift market highlighted the growing trend of sustainable shopping in Knoxville. Vendors showcasing their curated vintage collections set up shop, excited to share their finds with the community. Daiquan Hunt, who traveled over three hours from Greenville, South Carolina, with his business VSA Archives, displayed an impressive array of retro pieces. Meanwhile, local vendor Ricky Hopkins had an assortment of music-themed vintage items, including merchandise from J. Cole’s “Dreamville.”
The atmosphere buzzed as shoppers browsed for that perfect vintage gem—a retro jersey, a unique piece of artist merchandise, or even a T-shirt featuring a dad joke. It was a feast for the eyes and a win for sustainable fashion enthusiasts.
As the sun set and the music echoed through the streets, Commonsfest transformed the neighborhood into a celebration of community, connection, and creativity. Keep an eye out for future markets around Knoxville, where you might just find your next favorite vintage treasure!
