ACL schedules are out. Get your grid here then print it out. Then email Charles Attal and tell him what an idiot he is for making me decide between the White Stripes and Arcade Fire. This is like deciding between chocolate chips cookies and snickerdoodle cookies. Alright, snickerdoodles have an unfair advantage of being unearthly delicious. In any case, I decided to discuss my favorite (well least actually) four decisions at this year’s festival. Round 1…fight!

Featherweight Matchup: Ghostland Observatory vs Decemberists

I had the opportunity to catch the Decemberists at the 2005 ACL Festival, which was nothing to write home about. Don’t get me wrong. I love the Decemberists. I even love December. Their show simply did not impress me. Side note: I never write home. So, did I decide to give them a second chance? No way. Ghostland Observatory has never been an ounce short of amazing live, and who in their right mind would miss out on Aaron Behren’s prince-esque dance show. Plus, they’re from Austin. Decision: Ghostland

Welterweight Matchup: Midlake vs Andrew Bird

If Jason Lee loves and supports Midlake, shouldn’t we all? I missed them in Denver and never had a chance to catch them at a local show in Dallas (they’re from Denton, right outside of Dallas), so why not capitalize on this chance? Roscoe? Need I say more? In all fairness, Andrew Bird has amazed the shit out of me. He’s put out one of the best albums of the year in Armchair Apocrypha and I’ve never seen him live. This one might require a time machine. Decision: Split

Middleweight Matchup: Muse vs Arctic Monkeys

Battle of the Brits? This one is easy. Muse. Muse. Muse. Matt Bellamy is f-ing incredible on the piano and can really capture a crowd. Caught them at Austin Music Hall a couple years ago and have touted that show as one of the top 3 ever seen (just behind Celine Dion and Richard Marx). I think they’re the next Radiohead. Go ahead, start talking trash. But you’re wrong. No offense to the Monkeys, but I have a feeling I will have plenty more opportunities to see them. I mean, they’re what…15? Decision: Muse

Heavyweight Matchup: Arcade Fire vs White Stripes

The impossible decision. In all honesty, I’m a bigger fan of the Arcade Fire. And they were terrific at the 2005 Festival. BUT, outdoor festivals tend to be better suited for louder bands. The Stripes deliver just that. I’m sure Jack and Meg will put on an amazing performance. Difficult to admit it, but…Decision: The White Stripes

I’d really appreciate some debate here, so throw up a comment or two. And don’t tell me that Richard Marx isn’t awesome. Come on…Right Here Waiting? Genius.