Lollapalooza 2009 Preview: Top Five Must-See Bands - Spinner

With more than 130 bands set to rock Chicago's Grant Park this weekend, you'll inevitably be faced with some tough decisions -- like seeing Band of Horses or Loud Reed, Lykke Li or TV on the Radio, not to mention balancing all the headliners. And for crying out loud, go see Jane's Addiction. You wouldn't even be there were it not for the imagination of Perry Farrell.

But have no fear, festival friends! We've put together a list of the five most awesomely unmissable acts guaranteed to have you rocking, dancing and, oh right, sweating like crazy at this year's Lollapalooza. Happy hydrating!

Andrew Bird
Friday, August 7 at 7:00PM at Playstation stage

A Chicago native, Andrew Bird, who at times sounds just like a bird, has spent the last few years honing a unique brand of pastoral pop that provides the perfect soundtrack for such activities as swaying or sipping a beer on the grass. You snap along, he'll whistle and delight anyone within earshot with his intricately constructed, sunny-day-ready ditties and a surprising command of instruments like the glockenspiel.

Download Andrew Bird's 'On No' MP3 Free

Ida Maria
Saturday, August 8 at 2:15PM at Citi stage

Expect more than just music at this punky Swede's show. As evidenced by her infectious hit 'I Like You So Much Better When You're Naked,' Ida Maria is not afraid to be loquacious -- especially in matters of love, or, more accurately, bitter breakups. With a reputation for wild, often booze-fueled stage banter covering topics like "why guys suck," she's a thrill to watch live. And who can blame her fiery nature?