I didn't get many impressive pictures without a press pass or a professional camera, but I'll post a few impressions. Click on any of the photos to see more and larger versions at my flickr site.
(Umphrey's McGee at Which Stage)
Best unplanned surprise: Tinariwen.
I didn't plan on seeing their show but I was drawn in. Their sound is unique and they looked great on stage despite the oppressive heat.
(Tinariwen)
Best up and comers: Regina Spektor and The National.
They're both getting more popular lately and they had two of the best sets at Bonnaroo.
The National will do well if they can avoid being pigeon-holed as another neo-80's band. That trend is just about played out.
I think this picture of Regina Spektor hamming it up for the camera captures her goofy stage presence.
It was nice to get away to the smaller Sonic Stage now and then.
The Postelles from New York were good.
(Sunset as Phoenix plays)
Dave Matthews Band didn't disappoint on Sunday night. They're an excellent group of musicians who are worth seeing live even if you're sick of their overplayed radio hits.
(Dave Matthews Band Sunday night)
Other personal highlights:
Rinsing off fake blood in the fountain after Gwar's show when the band joined in. The fountain was still running pink the next morning as it rinsed off dirty hippies. Gwar was easily the most offensive set at Bonnaroo in every way. I felt pretty good about being in the mosh pit four months after breaking my leg.
John Fogerty played the lesser known song I was most hoping to hear, Wrote a Song for Everyone.
(Fogerty on the main stage)
Dave Rawlings Machine with Gillian Welch was practically a spiritual experience.
Daft Punk is playing at my house. My house.
Dead Weather blew me away. I like this band much better than the Raconteurs. I hated leaving their set early to see Weezer, who were excellent.
My one gripe since I always have to gripe about something:
Bonnaroo made some bizarre scheduling choices this year. I understand that conflicts are always going to happen with a festival of this size, but I don't understand the point of having a gigantic main stage if you're going to cram some of the most popular bands into smaller areas playing against other bands with a similar fan base. I spent much less time at the main stage this year than in '05. Hopefully they do a better job next year.
Overall, Bonnaroo was another incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience that happens every year in June.