For me, the words “Lexington, Kentucky” generally evokes images of horses and college kids holding signs that say “I Bleed Blue.”* Awesome indie shows? Louisville or Covington, perhaps, but Lex Vegas, not so much.  Lately though, promoters have made a solid effort to bring in some really great shows.
* NOTE: No disrespect, Lex. I was raised on Wildcat pride.
Take, for example, Boomslang. The festival boasts a pretty impressive lineup that includes Os Mutantes, The Black Angels, Mission of Burma, Atlas Sound, and Wussy. Our friends These United States are even playing at one of the after parties! Here’s the lowdown according to the festival’s website:
Boomslang is a three-day multi-venue music and art festival in Lexington, Ky. Brought to you by WRFL 88.1 – Radio free Lexington – it is a celebration of visionary, experimental, genre-bending music and media of the highest caliber, as well as a showcase of Lexington’s unique venues and culture. In the spirit of independent media, the line-up includes local up-and comers, regional favorites and international legends – artists who have been critically acclaimed for their innovation, but have somehow fallen (or hidden) beneath the mainstream shuffle.
Besides the Pitchfork-worthy lineup, other highlights include a carnival, circus-themed fashion show, a slew of official after-parties, music workshops and film showings.  Weekend passes cost $50, while individual day passes for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday run $20. UK students can also receive discounted tickets. More ticket information can be found here.
ENS will be covering Boomslang all weekend, so check back when we post the show reviews next week.