Kendrick, Kelela, Tune-Yards + More Ring Off At Pitchfork Festival 2014 [Recap + Photo Gallery]

photos by Gretchen Villaluna Baria for Okayplayer

Kendrick Lamar, Kelela, Earl Sweatshirt, Tune-Yards, SZA, Schoolboy Q, Pusha T, Grimes, Danny Brown, FKA Twigs and a grip more Okayplayer favorites rang off at Chicago's Pitchfork Festival over the weekend and OKP was on hand to experience one of the most organized and music-minded festivals in the world (with photo documentation by Chicago's own Gretchen Villaluna Baria). Compared to the other big ones in the game, Pitchfork's line-up seemingly gets curated based off nothing but their own desire as to who they wanna hear and who deserves a stage beyond these majors--the result is best described as a series of highlights and here are a few of ours:

Friday's pay-off was definitely Giorgio Moroder; the legend behind Donna Summer's hits, countless disco classics and soundtracks to films like Scarface proved that 74 is the new 24. Admittedly new to the live DJ set, Giovanni Giorgio is finally realizing his childhood dream of being a live conductor to a packed audience of young pitchforkers dancing enthusiastically--even if they know Daft Punk more than they know Donna Summer.

On Saturday, Pusha T came late, jumping on stage with backpack still attached to his back, but made the most with a short but passionate set. Tune-Yards dazzled with an energetic performance, playing several new tracks and closing strong with her recent single "Water Fountain." Scores of fans lined up for her to sign their vinyl copies of the new album. Danny Brown brought hi-nrg to his set as well, finishing with the Purity Ring collabo "25 Years."

Highlight: the artist formerly known as Twigs rocked onto stage with the swagger of someone who may be from another planet. She showed off her new vogue moves, gymnast flexibility and showed the audience that she's on another level!

Sunday, Earl Sweatshirt proved he's not going anywhere (despite missing some dates elsewhere this summer). Opening with his rendition of Journey's "Don't Stop Believing," the performance jumped off with Earl in good spirits and a beach-worth of crowdsurfers, restoring faith in any fans who were worried about his upcoming release (Earl will be good to go!).

The famously recalcitrant Grimes seemed to be in a fine mood as well, taking herself off the platform and engaging with the crowd more than ever. "Go"--originally written for Rihanna--got the crowd into it, followed by her hit "Genesis." Although she has been buzzing for some time now, Grimes seems to be approaching the next level. Watch out!

Absolutely biggest highlight: Kendrick Lamar lit up the crowd as night fell on the closing day of Pitchfork. As a newer artist, he made classics of his recent hits, extending his choruses each time on "B!#ch Don't Kill My Vibe"; "good kid, m.A.A.D. city"; "Poetic Justice" and "Sing About Me." An amazing capper to an amazing weekend--props to Pitchfork and Patrick Tilley at Pitch Perfect for taking care of us).