So we’re roughly five or so weeks from Tulsa’s annual DFest celebration in downtown Tulsa.

Initially, when the “national headliners” were announced, I was disappointed. I mean, I try not to be a music snob, but how can one go from The Flaming Lips to All-American Rejects?

Maybe it was the word traveling the streets and bars of Tulsa that My Morning Jacket and/or Arcade Fire could be gracing the main stage on July 25 and 26. Maybe it was the fact every other music festival, including American Eagle’s (yes, that American Eagle) pulled together unbelievable lineups this year.

Maybe it’s because I didn’t see the big picture.

As far as Oklahoma is concerned there are only a handful of acts that could probably out sale the Rejects when it comes to the possibly targeted MTV generation for ticket sales. Since David Cook, Carrie Underwood and the Jonas Brothers are out of the picture, the leaders behind DFest could have pursued Hanson. And who knows, maybe they did or they are planning on them next year.

Odds are I’ll catch one Rejects song. I can appreciate them for being an Oklahoma band that is making millions of dollars living the life we all wish we could at some point.

I can say the same for Paramore. They are also a Grammy-nominated band that will draw the same type of crowd and sale tickets to the teenagers who will miss out on great music inside many of the area bars.

As for the rest of the “national headliners”, you’ll find me watching every second of the Roots, Phantom Planet, Ghostland Observatory and possibly even Ty England and the Disco Biscuits if scheduling permits it.

My suggestion would be to not get caught up in all the national acts and make sure you check out the numerous “emerging artists”, which is what DFest is built upon.

Colourmusic, El Paso Hot Button, Vandevander, Mayola, Sheree Chamberlain, Matt Stansberry Band are among the acts I hope I’m not forced to miss.

So as upset as I was initially with the lineup for DFest, I can now say with the weekend fest right around the corner, I’m actually excited to be returning.

I’m sure there are some who are still upset with the lineup, but that’s the nature of the beast. If it’s good for Tulsa and creates a good time for me, then I’m down. And as long as the bars are serving up the cold beverages and there are numerous great acts to catch, I’m sure I’ll have a good time without evening realizing the Rejects are on stage.

For more info on Dfest, including a complete lineup, visit DFest.com.

Oh, and remember how I mentioned American Eagle was having a music fest? Well headliner Bob Dylan (yes, that Bob Dylan) will be gracing the stage of the Brady Theater on Aug. 27.

Now, that’s a headliner I’m not going to miss when he visits T-Town.

~The Great, Irreplaceable Lando!