Alive staffers recommend Survivalist, Mojoflo, Tim Easton, Scrawl and EOP (Evan Oberla Project).
Survivalist
12:45 p.m., Off Ramp Stage
Congratulations on leaving work early! Catching math-rock specialists Survivalist is the best way to kick off the weekend. Essentially the crowd at the Off Ramp Stage has two options. Survivalist's semi-cerebral, odd time signatures let those focused on the music get excited about the band's technical prowess. Or don't think - just drink, soak in the sun and recognize how perfectly these inventive instrumentals serve as a summer soundtrack. -Heather Gross
Mojoflo
6:55 p.m., Bozo Stage
Pieces of Mojoflo's musical puzzle come from the genres that have the most fun - funk, soul, hip-hop, rock, reggae and jazz - which, when put together with their saucy lead singer and hard-boiled strut, means this sexy seven-piece blares the brass and always kicks ass. -Jackie Mantey
Tim Easton7:05 p.m., Solar Stage
Anytime Tim Easton makes a return to Columbus, it's worth recommending. The singer/songwriter's pensive concepts blend masterfully with his catchy, twang-laden hooks. His raspy vocals (think Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros meets a harmonious Bob Dylan) only improves this bridge. Whether you've been at ComFest all day or are only making an evening arrival, Easton is perfect for rolling into the night's headliners. -Jesse Tigges
Scrawl9:30 p.m., Off Ramp Stage
Columbus' own legendary indie rockers - fronted by Ace of Cups mastermind Marcy Mays - will make a presumably legendary return. Catch them here before they head to play an All Tomorrow's Parties show on the Jersey Shore curated by pal Greg Dulli of The Afghan Whigs. -Brad Keefe
EOP (Evan Oberla Project)9:55 p.m., Bozo Stage
Evan Oberla hustles hard. From jam sessions to websites to showcase concerts, he works his tailbone off to direct eyes and ears to Columbus music. But he's not just a cheerleader; Oberla has blared his trombone with the likes of Mojoflo and O.A.R. (he's now a touring member), and his self-titled ensemble is now poised to funk up stages nationwide. Make no mistake - this band will blow you down. -Chris DeVille