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OUTLOUD Music Festival at WeHo Pride announces the return of SUMMERTRAMP, this summer’s sexiest sun-soaked party featuring headliners Purple Disco Machine and a DJ set from Hot Chip. Attendees will be treated to two days of decadence and delight with DJ sets and additional performances by Snow Wife, Kaleena Zanders, DJ Holographic, Crystal Waters, Kiesza, and many more. 
The hot and heavy dance bash is located within the OUTLOUD Music Festival and will take place from 1 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 1, and from 1 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 2. Presented in partnership with SUMMERTRAMP creator AndrĂ©s Rigal, the event features the hottest electronic dance beats of the summer.
Lineup
Produced by JJLA, SUMMERTRAMP’s full lineup includes pulsating DJ sets and mesmerizing performances by Purple Disco Machine and Hot Chip (DJ Set). Snow Wife, Kaleena Zanders, DJ Holographic, Crystal Waters, Kiesza, Shaun Ross are some of the names in the lineup. BabiBoi, Jimi The Kween, Masha Mar, Star Amerasu, Montana Malone, Nico Craig, Mez, Jack Faulkner are set to perform as well. Deesco, Josh Peace, Aaron Colbert, Casey Alva, Kimber Chronic, Mike Taylor, Daisy O’Dell conclude the lineup.
OUTLOUD Music Festival will feature three days of stellar performances. The weekend begins with WeHo Pride Presents Friday Night at OUTLOUD, a free community event. Friday’s lineup features headliner Kesha with additional acts including Adam Lambert, MonĂ©t X Change. Other performances include Laganja Estranja vs. Morphine Love Dion, Niña Dioz, Jessica Betts, Owenn, and Venessa Michaels.
OUTLOUD Music Festival at WeHo Pride continues on Saturday, June 1, and Sunday, June 2. Headliners include Kylie Minogue, Janelle Monåe,and Diplo + Friends. The full weekend requires a ticket purchase to attend.  There will be performances by Doechii, Ashnikko, Noah Cyrus, Trixie Mattel (DJ Set), Keke Palmer, Channel Tres, and Yaeji. Big Freedia, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and VINCINT, Snow Wife, Destiny Rogers, Black Polish, Salina EsTitties, Doug Locke, Jimi The Kween, and Zee Machine are all set to perform.
For the lineup schedule and to purchase weekend general admission passes to the OUTLOUD Music Festival, visit: https://www.weareoutloud.com/.  
Join the VIP waitlist to be notified when additional VIP Passes become available. 
The OUTLOUD Music Festival is proud to be a flagship event of the City of West Hollywood’s WeHo Pride Weekend. In addition, its free programming includes the Street Fair, Pride Parade with Lifetime Ally Icon Cyndi Lauper, the Dyke March, Women’s Freedom Festival, community organization events, and sponsor activations. 
OUTLOUD takes place Saturday, June 1, from 1 p.m. – 12:00 a.m., and Sunday, June 2, from 1 p.m. – 11 p.m. WeHo Pride Presents Friday Night at OUTLOUD takes place Friday, May 31, beginning at 6 p.m. 
About OUTLOUD
OUTLOUD Music Festival, created by Jeff Consoletti, set to debut as a live event, launched in 2020 as a ten-episode series on Facebook. It happened in lieu of Pride Celebrations in cities across the country due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. However, it quickly became one of the first major virtual LGBTQ+ showcases. Since its debut, OUTLOUD garnered over 1.4 billion media impressions and won several industry-topping awards. These include multiple SHORTY Awards for Best Use of Facebook and Best Use of Twitch. It also include a MARCOM Award & a Cynopsis Digital Award for BEST LGBTQ Series.
About the City of West Hollywood and WeHo Pride
For nearly four decades, the City of West Hollywood has been home to one of the largest Pride celebrations in the nation. Hundreds of thousands of LGBTQ+ people and allies from around the world make West Hollywood their regular destination during Pride. WeHo Pride will kick off on May 22 with its JosĂ© Sarria Drag Pageant on Harvey Milk Day. WeHo Pride Weekend will include a free WeHo Pride Street Fair. It represents a diverse array of LGBTQ+ community groups as part of visibility, expression, and celebration. The OUTLOUD Music Festival; the Women’s Freedom Festival; the Dyke March, and the WeHo Pride Parade on June 2. The WeHo Pride Arts Festival will take place from June 14 – June 16. Additional information about #WeHoPride will be posted at www.wehopride.com as it becomes available.
Since its incorporation in 1984, the City of West Hollywood has become one of the most influential cities in the nation for its outspoken advocacy on LGBTQ issues. Home to the “Rainbow District”, the city consistently tops lists of “most LGBTQ friendly cities” in the nation. More than 40 percent of residents in West Hollywood identify as LGBTQ. Moreover, four of the five members of the West Hollywood City Council are openly LGBTQ. The City has advocated for nearly four decades for measures that support LGBTQ individuals. Consequently, the City is in the vanguard on efforts to gain and protect equality for all people on a state, national, and international level.
The post Purple Disco Machine and Hot Chip Added To SUMMERTRAMP Lineup For OUTLOUD Music Festival appeared first on EDMTunes.
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South by Southwest is set to debut in the UK next year. Austin’s beloved conference and festival will head to London in June 2025, marking the first time the event series will be held in Europe.
Similar to Austin’s SXSW festivities, the London version will follow the same format with keynote speakers, musical performances, and a showcase of leading innovations in tech, gaming, and film. Lineup and further details are said to come in the next few months.
About SXSW
SXSW first debuted in Austin, Texas in 1987, and has since grown to become one of the biggest events of the year, bringing in hundreds of thousands of musicians, creatives, filmmakers, media companies, and music industry executives every March. Previous musicians to have graced the SXSW stages include Amy Winehouse, Billie Eilish, Duo Lipa, Ed Sheeran, Stormzy, and many more. Guest speakers over the years have included Dave Grohl, Barack Obama, Steven Spielberg, Michelle Yeoh, and Mark Zuckerberg, to name a few. Additionally, previous SXSW events have helped tech start-ups become global phenomenons, famously including Twitter, Foursquare, and Airbnb.
Global Rollout
The inaugural SXSW London marks the first European event amidst a global rollout that began in 2023. The first international event took place in Sydney, Australia, which is already gearing up for its second edition this October 14th-20th, 2024. SXSW Sydney, SXSW London, and the main SXSW conference and festival in the U.S. will make the event series “an indispensable three-stop tour for the global creative community,” said organizers in a press release. 
Further Details
While details are still yet to be revealed for SXSW London, organizers said the event will be held across dozens of venues, art galleries, and clubs in the East London district of Shoreditch and will have its own “distinctive personality,” to reflect the city’s vibrant culture.
The conference will also include innovative visual arts, design, and fashion programming, featuring exhibitions and interactive and immersive experiences across East London. The city’s proximity to other major creative and tech hubs in Europe will also shape programming as organizers look to attract creative talent from across the continent.
The post South By Southwest To Debut In London Next Year appeared first on EDMTunes.
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On yet another interesting piece of news coming out from our industry this week, Universal Music Group (UMG) presented the information discussed during their past week’s Q1 meeting. There’s plenty to dissect so, buckle up! Joking, we’ve made it easy for you to grasp everything at a glance. Read on.
If there’s one piece of information you should walk out of this post knowing, though, is Universal is coming back to TikTok. After a three-month licensing standoff, the music giant and the short-form video platform are back in business, to the relief of many.
Return To TikTok
The most significant takeaway of the entire meeting, at least to the concern of all of us who don’t really work at UMG? Universal’s music catalogue is making a triumphant return to TikTok. Expect a fresh wave of chart-toppers and classic throwbacks flooding your “For You” page in the coming weeks. According to UMG Chairman and CEO Sir Lucian Grainge, artists and songwriters can look forward to “greater recompense” under this new agreement. So, all in all, the recent noise made on the internet about fair revenues and royalties might just be starting to see results.
Now, the financial details are still locked inside a vault, but industry insiders are abuzz about the potential for a significant revenue boost for UMG. However, there’s more to this story than just pounds and pence.
AI Agreements And Artist Attribution
UMG also scored some key concessions on the responsibility front. The new deal addresses UMG’s concerns about Artificial-Intelligence-generated music being used on the platform. This seems to be a proper victory for — human — artists who want to ensure their creative contributions are properly recognised in the current enter-a-prompt-and-get-a-song era.
Social Media: A Work in Progress
Michael Nash, UMG’s Executive Vice President and Chief Digital Officer, pointed out social media monetisation “is still a work in progress for the entire music industry“. They already have an ongoing deal with Facebook since 2017, and are looking to strengthen rights and laws to protect the intellectual property to their name. Allegedly to pursue better income for UMG’s artists, but I guess that, we’ll have to see with our own eyes.
Superfans: Pay More, Get More
Universal introduce a newborn concept regarding music consumers, and are keen to set sail on a new and potentially lucrative market: superfans. Research suggests that around 20% of music subscribers (roughly one in five) might be willing to pay extra for a premium tier with exclusive content and experiences. This could be anything from bonus tracks and artist Q&As to behind-the-scenes access and merchandise bundles. The possibilities are endless.
UMG is exploring partnerships with streaming services to create these “superfan” subscriptions. So this part might just open a slight dystopia for consumers, for content is slowly drifting away from being free as it once was, and we’re getting bits locked behind a paywall little by little. A clear example is Spotify just recently limiting lyrics for their free users.
Final Words
So, there you are, those are the topics discussed and revealed by UMG, in a nutshell. Only time will tell how these points develop, and if other industry giants and not-so-much follow Universal’s steps. Stay tuned to our page for the latest news and views from our Dance industry.
[H/T] Music Business Worldwide
The post Universal Music Group’s Q1: TikTok, Superfans, And AI-Generated Content appeared first on EDMTunes.
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Rising costs have left many festivals with no choice but to cancel this year, and one major Australian EDM festival is the latest domino to fall.
The organizers of Australia's Return to Rio festival have cancelled this year's event due to a staggering 529% cost increase, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. In New South Wales, a government mandate called the Music Festivals Act allows state administration to fully control the prices of police presence, medical necessities and more.
Electronic music festivals in New South Wales have reportedly been deemed too "high risk," requiring their organizers to pay for "harm minimisation" tactics, including riot squads, strip search facilities, CCTV, police boats and interrogation areas. Return to Rio's promoters highlighted their decade-long track record of hosting safe and well-coordinated events, but still faced the astonishing rate hike.
"This, combined with the extra rules and regulations we have to adhere to, meant last year we incurred more than $300K in extra costs," reads a statement released by Return to Rio. "For a small family-run business, this makes it almost impossible not to run at a loss."

"The sad reality is that in NSW, electronic music is unfairly targeted," the statement continued. "And if this continues, we’ll only be left with beige government-run events and commercial mega-corp festivals, while the smaller diverse and boutique events die out."
The Aussie event joins a slew of American festivals, including Backwoods, Imagine and Firefly, that will not take place in 2024. 
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Sherm and Olivia Mancuso are setting a new standard for industry collaboration in the birthplace of house music. 
The Windy City-born DJ and Elevated Frequencies podcast host are readying the inaugural Chicago Music Nexus event, a new summit promising to bring together artists, industry professionals and entrepreneurs for networking, education and electronic music discovery sessions.
"The US dance music scene is blossoming and growing at an extremely rapid pace—there is no denying its relevance anymore," Sherm explained in a press release shared with EDM.com. "Younger generations are pursuing careers in music but with little understanding or knowledge on how to actually make their passion a career. Chicago Music Nexus has one purpose—to provide resources and knowledge for artists, entrepreneurs, and professionals in the music industry to collaborate and ensure the future continues to remain bright in the US. Chicago is where it all started and we’re incredibly excited to launch such an impactful event."
Sherm and Olivia Mancuso.Crystal Lotus Studios/Olivia Wolf
Panels at Chicago Music Nexus will tackle topics such as "Monetizing Your Personal Brand: Beyond the Booth," where discussions will focus on diversifying income streams through social media, merchandise, subscription services and licensing and sync deals.
Elsewhere, the "Adapt or Die: How to Stay Relevant as an Artist" panel will delve into evolving artistry, imposter syndrome, mental health and setting the pace as a trendsetter. Meanwhile, "Building Your Dream Team: Roles, Title, & Strategy" will guide artists through assembling an effective team, balancing self-management with professional expertise and financial planning for their careers.
The Sherm In The Booth podcast host has a knack for offering helpful commentary on the state of the scene, demonstrated most recently during his participation in the "US Tech House Scene And What's In It For You?" panel at the record-breaking 2023 Amsterdam Dance Event.
Sherm and Mancuso are poised to launch the inaugural Chicago Music Nexus on a to-be-determined date in November 2024.
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Emotions recently ran high at the Hollywood Bowl, where deadmau5 played an unreleased track in a heartfelt tribute to the late i_o.
"Gone but definitely not forgotten," deadmau5 said at the larger-than-life show before dropping his unreleased song, "input_output." Palpable emotions reverberated through the dancefloor as the song's rising synths built toward a thumping techno drop.
The song commemorates the beloved i_o, who tragically passed away four years ago at the age of 30. Check out footage of the poignant tribute below.
The Hollywood Bowl show was part of "retro5pective: 25 Years of deadmau5," which underscores his extraordinary journey as an electronic music trailblazer. deadmau5 went on to perform "retro5pective" at the Brooklyn Mirage on May 2nd and 3rd, continuing the celebration of his timeless impact on the scene.
The "retro5pective" series will wrap in November with a rare doubleheader at Colorado's iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater. Fans can catch deadmau5 at other upcoming performances at EDC Las Vegas, Tomorrowland, HARD Summer and many more.
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Hot off the back of the huge 50th release on Dirtbox and a massive return to the label, we come back thick and fast with very little time to spare and introduce a relatively new name to the label in Noize Komplaint, a true collaboration of the minds with a faction of US DNB Producers coming together to create a brand new sound.
Formed in 2015, Mike Thomas, Dave Hauser, Greg Oerlemans, and Brett Baker, have already showcased their collective minds and talents with other industry labels such as L Double’s Flex Records, where they unleashed “Rock Solid”.
Formed in 2016, Boomslang Recordings has become a permanent fixture to high-profile DNB charts alike and clubs plenty across the world Noize Komplaint in separate entities otherwise known as Gigan, ESKR, Bad Martian and TLDM are only just begun,
1. Noize Komplaint “Contact”
The starter for the EP and the first track from this release to be signed up we kick start with the remnants of a first contact expedition with the unknown, something so dark and dastardly there are no human words to explain. Well, there are a few but one we will stick with for now is dark. This one would not go a miss being likened as a Hardware classic for all those that know back in the day and all 4 producers’ sound shines right through on this one with the perfect blend of effects and dirty synths.
2. Noize Komplaint- “Extinction” (Transforma Remix)
Before we land the ship, and the final track of the release we decided to flip the switch here and let you hear the remix first. The one they call Transforma was unleashed on this one and another classic sound is uncovered and homage is paid as we go full-on 2008 Tech step vibe on this one. Limewax and Tech Itch-influenced screeches take this to the next level as the true Neurofunk bassline hits and a new direction is taken within the work before culminating in absolute dance floor-induced chaos for our second drop of the track.
3. Noize Komplaint- “Extinction”
We round up an easily best seller of 2024 with the original mix of ` Extinction` a total of 2 years in the making. It finally gets its release surrounded by 2 amazing tracks on either side to create the Darkest of Darkstep sandwiches. Massive switch-ups on this one and a tornado of highly processed synths turn this one into a best-until-last scenario and one that will never be forgotten
Alien Force EP lands May 10th. Pre-order here
The post US DnB trio Noize Komplaint lands on Dirtbox Recordings appeared first on Decoded Magazine.
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ODESZA are getting in on all the summer blockbuster hype. 
Last summer, fans of the superstar duo headed to the silver screen for special broadcasts of their debut film, The Last Goodbye Cinematic Experience. Unlike many big-budget pictures à la Dune and Barbie, the showtimes and locations were very limited so many fans did not have a chance to attend the rare screenings.
Now, ODESZA have unveiled a physical and digital release of the film so all can enjoy it from the comfort of their homes. The Last Goodbye Cinematic Experience will be available as a digital download on Apple TV, Fandango and their official merch site. Those who still appreciate the importance of physical media will also be able to purchase a Blu-Ray copy of the movie, which features footage of Harrison Mills and Clayton Knight's live performances as well as behind-the-scenes interviews with their fans and team.
"We’ve been flooded with people asking about the film and we can finally share that it will soon be yours," the duo wrote in an Instagram post. "We’ve included a Blu-ray option because apparently everyone still has their Blu-ray player lying around!"
In addition to their cinematic endeavors, ODESZA in April revealed their first-ever live album, set to release at the end of May. The electronic music superstars are also getting ready to hit the road for this summer's "The Last Goodbye Finale" tour, which will see them headline NYC's fabled Madison Square Garden, among other major venues.
The Last Goodbye Cinematic Experience will be released on May 24th, 2024. You can pre-order the film here and check out its trailer below.
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Here's how you can support youth in need and meet one of EDM's biggest stars at the same time.
Charitybuzz has made a name for itself by hosting philanthropic auctions in support of various non-profit organizations around the world. In the past, we've seen them collaborate with ILLENIUM, Martin Garrix, Marshmello, Steve Aoki and Avicii's Tim Bergling Foundation, among others.
Now, they've joined forces with David Guetta. Before he takes the stage this summer at Encore Beach Club, the top bidder of Charitybuzz's new auction will get to hang out with the French dance music heavyweight via an exclusive meet-and-greet. The winner and a guest will also score free flights to Las Vegas from any city in the US and a two-night stay at the lavish Wynn.
100% of net proceeds from the auction will benefit the Amalfi Jets Charitable Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping underserved youth in need worldwide. They're currently covering the living expenses of low-income individuals in California while also allowing them to meet with experts to forge a financial and career plan. Across the Atlantic, the foundation is opening a school in Tanzania closer to a remote village that does not have a school nearby.
The auction has just over a week left at the time of this writing, giving fans plenty of time to place their bids. You can do so here.
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After a prolific run of singles and EPs, Channel Tres will finally release his debut album next month.
The "Topdown" and "Controller" hitmaker will is set to unveil Head Rush on June 14th via RCA, he revealed last week. Now, he's given fans a taste by virtue of "Berghain," the album's lead single featuring Barney Bones.
Colliding hip-hop and house influences, the song is a testament to the one-of-a-kind, signature style of Channel Tres. Blending deep vocals with reverberating synths and punchy percussion, "Berghain" is charged with the brooding, electric energy of its namesake.
"It's about the time I played Berghain and how the culture in that environment made me feel, I didn’t feel weird anymore," Tres said in a press release. "Everyone’s the same, the goal for everyone in that place is to enjoy themselves and be free, and music played a pivotal role in that. It was the main thing for me and I wanted to document that experience I had there through music so that I always have that memory in my life. So I can feel that memory while I’m performing and relive that experience."
Tres has upcoming festival performances at Movement, HARD Summer, Outside Lands and more. In the meantime, you can listen to "Berghain" below and stream the new single here.
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The organizers of Austin City Limits have revealed the full lineup of artists set to take over the festival smack-dab in the middle of the city.
Since 2002, fans of all genres have descended on Austin for the beloved music festival, which was inspired by a longtime program on the city's local PBS station. What was once a single-day event has now become a three-day fest spanning two back-to-back weekends. 
While there's only one electronic headliner at this year's event in October, the optics surrounding him make up for the scarcity. It's none other than Pretty Lights, one of the electronic music scene's greatest live performers, who made a huge comeback after a long hiatus last year.
Others from around the dance music world include Porter Robinson, San Holo, Elderbrook, Dom Dolla and Barry Can't Swim. Fans in Austin will also get to witness headlining performances by Blink-182, Dua Lipa, Chris Stapleton, Sturgill Simpson, Khruangbin, Leon Bridges and Tyler, the Creator.
ACL will return to Austin's Zilker Park from October 4-16 and 10-13. Tickets to both weekends are on sale now and can be found here. Check out the full lineup below.
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Following their stunning debut, "All I Need" earlier this year, Kito and Chrome Sparks have unveiled their debut EP under their IS U IS U EP alias, Melter.
IS U IS U marks Kito and Chrome Sparks’ latest artistic venture, a DJ super-duo that draws from each artist’s unique background to deliver melodic dancefloor anthems. Out now via Mad Decent, Melter finds IS U IS U expertly merging their respective sounds for an intoxicating record that’s as irresistible as it is eclectic.
Chrome Sparks’ masterful melodies and impressive synth work are present all throughout the short-but-sweet EP, while Kito’s tasteful production and pop-driven approach perfectly add to the EP’s commercial allure.
“All I Need” kicks off the journey, driven by an infectious vocal sample that calls back to the duo’s name, while organic dance instrumentation and a warm ambiance immerse us into IS U IS U’s vibrant world. Taking inspiration from classic house music with its punchy piano chords and groovy basslines, “Lights On” makes for yet another highlight while “Angel Girl” continues showcasing their knack for infectious vocal chops and emotive melodies. Elsewhere, EP’s titular track completes the journey by channeling euphoric rave energy, sealing a project that’s bound to help cement the duo as a dance music powerhouse.
Take a listen to Melter below.
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In the music industry, where financial transparency often feels like a mirage, Mogul is emerging as a lifeline for artists seeking clarity in their earned compensation.
Mogul addresses the longstanding problem of financial opacity in the music business by centralizing royalty data across all rights types into a single actionable hub, an effective go-to solution for artists aiming to simplify their finances and capture every cent of their earnings.
According to a press release shared with EDM.com, the platform has now tracked over $100 million in royalties since its debut in early February, a clear sign the company is establishing itself as a promising, transformative force for artists. 
"Surpassing $100 million in tracked royalties so quickly is a clear sign that the industry’s opaque and fragmented nature needs to be remedied," said Mogul CEO Jeff Ponchik. "Artists and their teams receive an ocean of data from each royalty source and have little to no tools at the ready to make sense of how their business is actually working. We’re thrilled Mogul is filling that need for new artists every day so that they can understand their business and generate more income."
Ponchik has an established track record of success when it comes to developing artist-friendly tech tools. The serial entrepreneur famously founded Repost Network, an artist-facing distribution and promotional tool that was later acquired by SoundCloud in a $15 million deal in 2019.
"I'm excited about what Mogul can do for artists at all levels of the industry," added Aloe Blacc, an early adopter of the platform and frequent collaborator of the late dance music icon Avicii. "To have a system to synthesize all sources of income in a transparent way is transformative tech we all need."
You can find out more about Mogul via the company's official website.
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UK’s leading independent festival Secret Garden Party (SGP) shakes up the music industry with their announcement to support Chai Wallahs’ Drop a Headliner campaign, in order to nurture grass roots artists for their 2024 edition. Further highlighting a 20 year history as an incubator event for emerging and independent talent. 
In a bold departure from traditional festival programming, Secret Garden Party is foregoing big-name headliners to allocate resources to supporting rising performers and providing visibility for acts to evolve with an aim to leverage the music industry from its current position. 
The curated line-up features over 350 artists includes Unkle, Crystal Fighters, Chinchilla, Franky Wah, Carly Wilford, Adelphi Music Factory, Jakkob, Omega Nebula, Technobrass, TC & The Groove together with independent collectives Chai Wallahs, The Living Room, Noiganica hosting dedicated venues to diverse, grassroots live music. Save Our Scene, Parable Music, Dubtendo and Truth Tribe plus many more collectives are providing exciting stage takeovers to deliver an unparalleled event in July. 

Leaning into their vibrant history that proudly spans across two decades, Secret Garden Party has consistently pushed boundaries forward with their programming, actively championing developing acts. In past years, Secret Garden Party has hosted some of the most exciting talent from across the industry, including Lily Allen, Ed Sheeran and Dua Lipa whilst also playing a monumental role in breaking the careers of now global superstars Florence & The Machine, The XX and Regina Spektor who’s first ever festival appearance was at SGP.

Founder Fred Fellowes emphasises the importance of inclusivity, stating “We believe in being a breeding ground for talent to grow. Why allocate a massive budget to one or two headliners when it could fuel another 50 outstanding acts? This year’s focus is on providing grassroots artists the ability to shine, whilst actively redefining festival experiences for the future.” 
Si Chai, Chai Wallahs’ founder says “Having been ardent supporters of the grassroots scene for over 20 years, we were chuffed as f%$k when Secret Garden Party agreed to be the first independent festival to collaborate with us on the ‘Drop a Headliner’ campaign. There is so much more enjoyment to be had in the discovery of new music, and please trust me when I say that there is a massive world of undiscovered talent. For the grassroots scene to survive and thrive, this talent needs platforms and opportunities to be able to develop, so we must address the disparity.”

More than 100 festivals are at risk of disappearing in 2024 as costs continue to soar. This year, an astonishing number face the imminent threat of vanishing unless measures are implemented to ease the escalating operational expenses. The financial strain on the nation’s festivals has surged to unparalleled heights. Without prompt intervention, the UK could witness their gradual disappearance. Recently 34 major events have already declared a postponement, cancellation or complete closure this year, as well as Music Venues Trust reporting 16% of UK grassroots music venues lost in the last 12 months. This is an alarming call to action to save independent music festivals and venues across the UK.
Further analysis underscores an industry-wide misalignment, shedding light on the growing concerns that stem from corporation dominance in the entertainment sector. With alarming figures that clearly reflect this position that includes one headliner commanding approximately £150,000, this is equivalent to £2,500 per minute. The opportunity to re-allocate this vast resource becomes evident, with a recommendation that this figure could finance in preference around 222 individual acts, which would comprise of roughly 1,110 performers across 266 total performance hours. This staggering number would create a marked upsurge in independent music and become a building block for its sustained growth. 

Si Chai further comments “This campaign highlights not only the opportunities for programmers to be more creative with their million pound budgets, but also presents a chance to support a whole ecosystem of artists. It provides greater enjoyment to open minded music lovers, and a healthy alternative to playing the big name game, where programmers are held to ransom by unscrupulous booking agents. 
Goaded into exclusivity battles with corporate players, and lumbered with countless arguments about where someone’s ‘Giant Ego’ appears on a poster, imagine a grassroots scene so vibrant that you could discover something new, to suit any mood, at any time, on any stage, at any venue or festival. If you love music and discovery then get involved
. Roots don’t grow unless you feed them!”
The Secret Garden Party has never just been about the music. Nurturing grassroots creatives from all genres you will see artwork, sculpture, immersive experiences, costumes and performances from multi talented individuals and groups. Blending seamlessly with the audience participation, the curators of this party have consistently fostered a community-driven ethos, dubbing all participants and audience alike as fellow Gardeners.

Save Our Scene inputs “To be involved in SGP is a privilege. A place which has bred so much creativity, talent and amazing memories. There is something truly special about the place and we are proud to partner with them for a second year. Our ethos are aligned and we are excited to showcase some collectives and talent who we believe have a bright future!” 
Secret Garden Party: Roots will be taking SGP back to where it all began. Bringing the anarchic freedom of their early formative years, whilst breaking down the divide between artist and audiences. They promise to create an intimacy and liberation that other festivals rarely offer in this space. This year they will reintroduce iconic areas from previous years, including The Lost Woods, Doghouse, The Garden Shed and The Pagoda. These areas will feature an expanded lineup that crosses multiple genres ranging from Nu Disco and House, through to Techno, UKG, DnB and beyond with a highly eclectic mix of live performances.

Tickets are now on sale and available via the website.
www.secretgardenparty.com
For Updates Follow
Secret Garden Party | Chai Wallahs | Save Our Scene 
The post Secret Garden Party Drops The Headliner To Support Grassroots Artists Featuring 350 Acts appeared first on Electic Mode.
Ravebot
Life, love, art, and music are celebrated all over the world at EDC Las Vegas 2024. It takes place under the Electric Sky, at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway from May 17th to May 19th. There is a lot to enjoy at EDC Las Vegas, from the amazing stages and sounds to the mesmerizing fireworks and captivating performers.
You are welcome to wander, explore, interact, and connect at EDC Las Vegas. Positive energy and imagination are what made this amazing event possible. Each area is a unique mix of technology and nature that awakens the senses and sparks the mind.
The beat of the music brings people together, making beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. EDC Las Vegas is like a big playground with big thrills. It has rides and activities for everyone, from those who want to relax to those who want to get pumped up. Get lost in a world with three-dimensional structures, glowing, bright environments, and plants and animals that are lit up by LEDs.
There are interactive art installations all over the fairgrounds. They connect nature and technology and inspire everyone who sees them. The Funkdafied Freaks perform at EDC Las Vegas. They are dancers, stilt walkers, aerialists, circus artists, and other strange characters dressed up in outrageous outfits who are ready to amaze, charm, and play with you all night.
At special bars or the outdoor theater, you can see live shows. At the Tokyo-style karaoke bar, you can even sing on stage. You can get married in one of the beautiful churches, promise your love to your festival best friend at the free Commitment Deck, or dance the night away at the Headlight Disco or the Silent Disco.
At its core, EDC Las Vegas shows that its guests are like-minded people who share a deep love for music and the people who make it possible. For me, the Headliners are what make EDC Las Vegas truly unforgettable. Their energy and excitement are what make the event what it is.
Venue and Logistics
Location
EDC Las Vegas 2024 will take place at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, located at 7000 N Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89115. For a detailed map and directions, check out the Location & Directions page.
Event Dates and Times
The festival will run for three days:
Friday, May 17 Opening Ceremony: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Full grounds open: 7:00 pm – 5:30 am Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19 Full grounds open: 7:00 pm – 5:30 am (no Opening Ceremony) Stages
EDC Las Vegas 2024 will feature multiple stages, each with its unique theme and musical lineup. Here are some of the main stages:
kineticFIELD: The legendary kineticFIELD has taken many forms over the years, from a cathedral for sonic worship to the embodiment of universal love and energy. cosmicMEADOW: Converge at cosmicMEADOW for the epic EDC Opening Ceremony and immerse yourself in the sounds of HARD, featuring top names in electronic music and hip-hop. circuitGROUNDS: This renowned stage features LED walls and plumes of fire, creating a positively charged energy felt far beyond our own perceptions. neonGARDEN: Presented by Factory 93, neonGARDEN is where subliminal minimalism and immersive live art meet cutting-edge technology and expertly curated deep house and techno. bassPOD: Headbangers make their annual pilgrimage to bassPOD, the proving ground for lovers of dubstep, bass house, drum & bass, and trap. wasteLAND: wasteLAND is the refuge of ravers looking to experience the blistering tempos and relentless energy of hard dance, hardcore, and all forms of hardstyle. quantumVALLEY: Join the international Trance Fam at quantumVALLEY, where Dreamstate presents the entire spectrum of the trance genre. stereoBLOOM: Enjoy various shades of the dance music genre, from house to tech house to bass music and beyond, curated by the Insomniac Music Group. bionicJUNGLE: The newest addition to EDC, bionicJUNGLE takes you on a journey deep into the wild with a carefully selected roster of house artists. EDC Las Vegas mainstage 2018 Additionally, Art Cars – glowing buggies and massive party ships – will be roaming the Speedway, broadcasting all forms of dance music.
Transportation, Shuttles, and Parking
For a convenient and stress-free experience, EDC Las Vegas offers an official Shuttle program with various options:
Standard Shuttles (SOLD OUT)
3-day round-trip transportation Shuttles depart and return on an ongoing basis Stops: Downtown Lot, The Rio, The Strat, Grand Prix Plaza Departure times: 6:30 pm – 11:30 pm Return times: 2:00 am – 60 minutes after the music ends at the Kinetic Field (no service between 11:30 pm and 2:00 am) Premier Shuttles (SOLD OUT)
Reserved shuttle departure and return times Premier merchandise item Stops: Resorts World, The Strat, Downtown Lot, The Rio, Grand Prix Plaza Departure times: 6:30 pm, 8:30 pm, 10:30 pm Return times: 3:00 am, 4:00 am, 6:00 am Peak and non-peak pricing options Opening Ceremony Shuttles (Add-On)
Shuttles to the festival grounds for the Opening Ceremonies on Friday Available as an add-on for all shuttle pass holders Departs from The Rio from 4:00 pm – 6:30 pm on Friday only All shuttle stops will have amenities, including restrooms and water, and a dedicated support team will be available to assist riders.
Premier Parking (SOLD OUT)
For a hassle-free experience, Premier Parking allows you to get in and out of the parking lot more easily, giving you more time to enjoy the festival. Premier Parking is accessible via I-15 North, Exit 58 at Apex. Turn right on N Las Vegas Blvd, follow signs for Yellow Lot/Premier Parking, and turn right into Entry 9. This is the only way to access Premier Parking.
Premier Parking Lot Opens at 3 pm on Friday, 5 pm on Saturday & Sunday rice: $165 + taxes and fees General Parking
General Parking is free. The largest lots with easiest access are the Brown and Green Lots on the west and south sides, accessible via Las Vegas Blvd. Note your parking location, landmarks, and the route you take to the venue for an easy return.
General Parking Lots Open at 3 pm on Friday, 5 pm on Saturday & Sunday ADA Parking
For ADA Parking, take I-15 North to Exit 58 at Apex, turn right on N Las Vegas Blvd, follow signs for ADA Parking, and turn right into Entry 8.
ADA Parking Opens at 3 pm on Friday, 5 pm on Saturday & Sunday Rideshare, Taxi, and Guest Drop-Offs
Rideshare availability is expected to be limited due to high demand. Consider backup options like taxis or carpooling, especially for late-night/early-morning hours.
All rideshare, taxi, and guest drop-offs and pickups must occur at the designated Guest Drop-Off and Pickup location (Mid-Brown Lot). Approach the Speedway from I-15 North via the E. Tropical Parkway exit and follow signs for the Rideshare/Taxi/Pick Up & Drop-Off lot.
For safety reasons, drop-offs/pickups are not allowed on-street near the Speedway or along Las Vegas Blvd between the Speedway and Downtown Las Vegas.
EDC Las Vegas 2022 drone show opening ceremony Charter Buses
Private charter buses will not have access to the Speedway during EDC Las Vegas. It’s highly recommended to use the Official EDC Shuttle Service.
VIP Transportation (Optional)
For a luxurious experience, you can book a round-trip or one-way ride with a VIP transportation service. These luxury vehicles seat up to 6 people and offer amenities like premium water, phone chargers, and music connectivity. Pickup and drop-off locations include MGM Grand, Resorts World, VIP, and SkyDeck areas. Prices start at around $175 per person per day (based on 6-person occupancy).
Parking Lot Restrictions
Vehicles must vacate the parking lot each day at the close of the festival. Activities like tailgating, sleeping in vehicles, buying/selling tickets, vandalism, loitering, drinking alcohol, and illegal drug use are strictly prohibited in the parking lot and surrounding areas.
Getting ready for the festival: EDC Las Vegas 2024
While going to EDC Las Vegas is exciting, it’s important to make sure you’re ready for the desert and the demands of a multi-day event. To make sure you have a safe and fun time, here are some important tips:
What to Pack
Comfortable shoes: You’ll be standing for a long time, so buy good sneakers or boots that have been worn in and offer good support. Hydration pack: In the hot desert, it’s important to stay fresh. If you have a hydration pack with a tank, you can drink water all night long. Portable fan: A small fan that runs on batteries can help you cool off and feel better. A scarf or dust mask: The air in the desert can be dry and dusty, so a scarf or mask can help keep your lungs safe. A small bag or a fanny pack: Use a hands-free bag to carry important things like your phone, cash, lip balm, and portable charger. Portable charger: Your phone’s battery will die quickly with all the photos and videos you take. Bring a charger that you can take with you to keep it charged. Light-up toys or accessories: Add some fun to your event with glow toys or accessories that light up at night. Clothes and other items
Fabrics that let air pass through: To stay cool, choose light, breathable fabrics like cotton or materials that wick away sweat. Layers: It can get cold at night in Las Vegas, so bring a light jacket or hoodie to wear over your outfit. Shoes with closed toes: The fair grounds can be rough, so shoes with closed toes will keep your feet safe. Shield or hat: During the day, wear a shield or hat to shield your eyes and face from the sun. Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the bright desert sun, buy a good pair of sunglasses. Bandana or face mask: If you need extra warmth, a bandana or face mask can help keep you safe from dust. Health and Drinking Water
Keep yourself refreshed. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, drink water all day and night. In the desert, it’s easy to lose water very quickly. Put on sunscreen. Wide-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF should be used, and it should be reapplied often, especially if you’ll be outside during the day. Don’t push yourself too hard; take breaks. Take breaks to rest and rehydrate in the shade or at a cooling stop. Eat often and have snacks: Fuel your body with healthy meals and snacks all day long to keep your energy up. Pay attention to your body. Don’t ignore the signs if you start to feel sick, too hot, or tired. Take a break, drink some water, and if you need to, get medical help. Remember that being ready is the most important thing you can do to have a fun and safe time at EDC Las Vegas. You can dance the night away under the stars if you remember to pack the important things, dress right, and take care of your body.
Watch EDC Electric Daisy Carnival Las Vegas 2018 Day 2 Highlights and experiences from EDC Las Vegas
With a great lineup of artists, amazing stage designs, and immersive experiences that will take you to another world, EDC Las Vegas 2024 looks like it will be an adventure you’ll never forget. Here is a sneak peek at what’s to come:
List of performers
The artists on this year’s list include both big names in electronic music and up-and-coming stars, so there’s something for everyone. As for headliners, they can look forward to thrilling shows from
Trance Legends: Armin van Buuren, Aly & Fila, Paul van Dyk, and Andrew Rayel will take you on a euphoric journey at the iconic quantumVALLEY stage. House Music Heavyweights: Carl Cox, Jamie Jones, Peggy Gou, John Summit, Green Velvet, Nicole Moudaber, and Purple Disco Machine will keep the energy high at the neonGARDEN and stereoBLOOM stages. Bass Music Titans: Excision, Zomboy, Subtronics, NGHTMRE, and the Hivemind trio (Kayzo x Space Laces x Must Die!) will bring the earth-shattering basslines and head-banging beats to the bassPOD. Dubstep and Drum & Bass Royalty: Virtual Riot, Dimension, and Culture Shock will unleash their high-octane sounds at the wasteLAND stage. Techno Pioneers: Adam Beyer and Joseph Capriati will showcase their techno prowess at the neonGARDEN. There are a lot of different types of acts on the lineup, like Deadmau5, David Guetta, Tiësto, Kaskade, Alison Wonderland, and many more. There is something for every music fan.
Designs for stages and immersive experiences
EDC Las Vegas is famous for its amazing stage designs and settings that make you feel like you’re in a different world. The sets this year look like they’ll be even better:
kineticFIELD: The famous kineticFIELD will change into a beautiful futuristic city with tall buildings and neon lights that pulse to the beat. cosmicMEADOW: Enter a lush, intergalactic park where plants and animals from other worlds come to life, creating a mesmerizing show that combines nature and technology. A high-tech fantasy awaits you at circuitGROUNDS, where LED screens and fireworks will overwhelm your senses and leave you speechless. In neonGARDEN, you can get lost in a strange, neon-lit maze that is full of mesmerizing art pieces and cutting-edge lighting effects. Aside from the stages, EDC Las Vegas has a lot more to offer, such as interactive art and statues that seem to be bigger than life, as well as mesmerizing light shows and performances by the Funkdafied Freaks.
Having a unique atmosphere and energy
The mood and energy at EDC Las Vegas are what really make it stand out. The moment you walk onto the fairgrounds, you’ll be surrounded by a lively, friendly group of people who share your love of music and expressing yourself.
The festival’s theme of happiness and acceptance makes it a place where you can relax, be yourself, and meet people from all walks of life. It looks like EDC Las Vegas will be an unforgettable experience, whether you dance under the bright sky, look around the interactive art pieces, or just enjoy the contagious energy.
After-Parties and Side Events
EDC Las Vegas isn’t just a 3-day festival; it’s a week-long celebration of music and culture. From May 15th to May 21st, 2024, Las Vegas will host EDC Week, featuring a lineup of special events and after-parties that will keep the energy flowing long after the festival grounds close each night.
Official EDC Week Events
Insomniac has organized a series of official events throughout EDC Week, providing Headliners with opportunities to extend their festival experience:
Club Techne: We All Scream (May 15th) – Kick off EDC Week with this immersive club night featuring a lineup of techno and house artists. Bassrush & RVLTN Present: Reload Pool Party (May 15th) – Beat the heat at this bass-fueled pool party at the Citrus Grand Pool Deck. Bassrush Massive (May 16th) – This one-night outdoor music festival at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center will feature some of the biggest names in bass music. Dreamstate Las Vegas (May 16th-18th) – Experience a trance music lover’s dream with this 3-day event at Area15, featuring melodic trance, psytrance, and more. Lost in Dreams Night Swim (May 16th) – Dive into the Night Swim experience at Daylight Beach Club, with a lineup of deep house and techno artists. After-Parties
After dancing the night away at EDC, keep the party going at one of the many after-parties hosted by top nightclubs and dayclubs in Las Vegas. These events often feature extended sets from artists performing at the festival, as well as special guests and surprise appearances.
Some notable after-parties include:
Excision & ARMNHMR at Encore Beach Club (May 16th) Steve Aoki: Dim Mak Takeover at Hakkasan (May 16th) Adam Beyer & Nicole Moudaber at Marquee Nightclub (May 16th) Martin Garrix at Omnia (May 17th) Vice at Marquee Nightclub (May 17th) Acraze at Encore Beach Club (May 18th) Steve Aoki at Omnia (May 18th) Additionally, many clubs and pool parties will feature EDC-themed events and lineups throughout the week, providing plenty of opportunities to extend the festival vibes.
The post Your Guide to Attending EDC Las Vegas 2024 appeared first on The Groove Cartel.
Ravebot
With a series of groundbreaking releases from renowned underground producers such as 4am Kru, Guido YZ, Krunx, and Phasmid, Da Demolition Squad has quickly established itself as a dominant force in the UK grassroots scene, earning a valid reputation for pushing the boundaries of multi-genre bass music. 
Established in 2020 as an offshoot of Singularity UK, Da Demolition Squad boldly test the confines of bass music through multi-genre grassroots revitalisation. What sets them apart is their innovative approach to music production, embracing a multi-genre “squad” mentality that transforms every artist into an integral part of the crew. By embracing spirited collaboration and a multi-genre approach, they’re pushing the boundaries of the old-school sound and challenging dance music conventions.
Last September, Da Demolition Squad excitingly announced their ‘Da Total Demolition Tour’, spanning ten cities across the UK. The tour featured some talented names in underground music, including Tim Reaper, Louise Plus One, Hughese, Worsley, and Glinks, who showcased the Squad’s unique blend of jungle, techno, UKG, and 160. Da Demolition Squad’s success on the tour wasn’t just due to their talented roster of artists – it was also a testament to their innovative and collaborative approach to music production and event promotion. In addition to their successful UK tour, Da Demolition Squad has been making exciting debuts across major cities in Europe, further solidifying their grassroots presence.
We had the chance to chat with Ariel, aka The Bass Injector, head-honcho of Da Demolition Squad, who shared exclusive insights into the Squads’ essence, the highlights from last year’s tour, and the label’s contribution to the international spread of underground UK bass music.
I bet you are very busy at the moment. Any cool updates or achievements you’re excited about lately?
Our recent show in Milan was really good fun! Myself and Guido YZ had the opportunity to go out there to represent Da Demolition Squad, which was probably the highlight of March. 
Milan looked sick! How is it doing all these shows now that are attracting international crowds? 
As we’re based in the UK, international crowds don’t often get to hear our music, unless they specifically come to hear it, which definitely creates a more genuine energy amongst the crowd. Even if they stumble upon it, they’re open to the experience because it’s so different from what they’re used to hearing. I especially enjoyed the show in Milan as we started at 130 bpm with garage house and gradually sped it up to 160 bpm by the end – and they were loving it! They were honestly such a cool crowd with genuine energy. 
And how was the Radio Raheem show

While we were out there we got to do the show for Radio Raheem. It was in a cultural centre in one of the central parks. When we stepped out from the radio show, there was this exhibition going on with lots of freaky photos. It was very cool. Fracture (Charlie Fieber) plugged it for Guido and me, which is very kind of him, so shout out to Fracture. 
That sounds like a wicked experience. Let’s dive into the recent releases from Shirley Temper, Guido YZ & 4am Kru, and Krunx. What’s it like representing these diverse bass artists? 
Our audience is diverse, and some people might wonder how these different styles correlate. But with Demolition Squad, the focus is on the old-skool sound, and if I enjoy the music, I’m happy to share it with the world. That’s why our music evolves based on my interests and what artists are sending me. I’m fortunate to know all the individuals you mentioned personally so it’s good to have a lot of mates that I can put out their music. It’s like a family, and I’m glad to support their music by putting it out there.
Tell us, how exactly did Demolition even come about? 
I have been running Singularity with my friend Benji since 2019. Then lockdown happened so we had to start to think about doing things differently, away from organising parties. We were doing a Singularity online radio show but I also wanted to turn Singularity into a record label. There were three of us working on it regularly at the time, and it was just taking really long to properly turn it into a record label. When you have three people working and giving input, it takes more time. Even though that was on the way, I knew that I just wanted to put people’s tracks out very quickly. I wanted it to be simple artwork, and to be able to do that I just thought I needed to do something by myself. 
Shout out to Silva Snipa, I was in her living room when I decided ‘fuck it’ I am doing this, I’m going ahead with this. The first track that I signed in September 2020 was by Saxoneer, shout out to Saxoneer! Nedway massive! Stan did the first bit of artwork for that. 
Could you tell me more about the significance behind the name “Demolition Squad” and what it represents to you and the collective?
The concept behind the name is that everyone who puts out their music is part of the squadron- a massive squad of sick producers. I think it’s worked because of how frequent the releases are and how varied they are. 
With four years in the game, what significance does Da Demolition Squad hold for the underground bass music scene? How does it contribute to shaping and supporting emerging talent?
I think if someone stumbles across Da Demolition Squad who isn’t really into this music, they are given a very good overview of lots of different styles. I guess what they have in common is that they all belong to retro styles and genres. It has definitely helped some artists gain some sort of recognition. Cheetah’s first tune was released on Demolition Squad, you know that tune “Of Course”? 
Of Course!
Of Course
 it is the name of the track. That track alone, being the absolute banger it is, would have been enough to satisfy me if it were the only contribution Demolition Squad made to the scene. Thankfully, we’ve got numerous other fantastic releases that have all contributed to the demolition sound.
It’s exactly how you said it, Demolition has become a family of celebrated multigenre underground bass producers celebrating variety rather than sticking to one sound. 
Yeah exactly! Even though they are all different genres, there is a correlation. I encourage producers to explore multi-genre music, blending different styles rather than sticking to just one. Variety is key.
Was it always the intent of Da Demolition Squad to be multigenre? 
Yes, indeed. The first track we released on Demolition by Saxoneer was a grime track. Grime releases on the label have been relatively few, numbering around six in total. It’s all about the music that resonates with me at the moment. While my taste has evolved significantly since then, it’s fascinating to reflect on the journey over the past years. I still appreciate all the music we’ve put out, and I continue to explore new genres and sounds, whether they’re within the realm of dance music or not.
With all this in mind, what makes a top-notch demolition track? 
Big bass and authenticity are key elements for me. I believe it’s beneficial for producers to sample influences from outside of dance music. By incorporating these diverse influences, you can create a dance track that stands out and resonates more deeply. Getting those exterior influences from outside of the scene you’re in. 
It is so easy to have that tunnel vision when it comes to dance music. Even myself, I recently have been finding myself going out to gigs and seeing actual live music and I am enjoying that a lot. I’d say about 75% of the music I listen to at home isn’t classified as dance music, although I do find myself dancing to it. However, when I’m out at events, that’s when it truly transforms into all-time dance music.
Now, let’s talk about last year’s Da Demolition Tour. I mean, what a milestone!
First and foremost, I want to give a massive shoutout to Cheetah because none of this would have been possible without him. He was the driving force behind it all, pushing me to take the leap and leading the organisation. Big ups to him for that.
As for the highlights of the tour, Belfast and Newcastle were definitely at the top of the list. The energy from the crowds was incredible. Additionally, the promoters were amazing and made the whole weekend a blast. It was all good vibes and a lot of fun.
How did you get in touch with the venues and promoters? 
For some of the events, we didn’t have any local promoters involved. For instance, in Manchester, we teamed up with Distant Planet, and in Bristol, it was solely organised by Demolition Squad. In Belfast, we did a collaboration with Big Jacket Crew for a collaborative event, which turned out to be a great success. At the end of the day, Demolition Squad is a respected name and it’s doing well for itself but the aim is still to expose more people to it. 
The tour must have been a milestone for you guys. The curation for each city was brilliant and even featured Tim Reaper in the London show. Can you tell us more about that?
It was a very intense and busy time for us, but definitely worth it. Yeah, we got him to play for our event down at Venue M.O.T, but couldn’t announce his name on the flyer, so we had him come as a surprise guest. But I was happy with the way that turned out- a 2-hour set of Tim Reaper vs Cheetah & Janaway. But, overall we just took it city by city and saw which artists would be suitable for each place. It was good to give people a taste of Da Demolition Squad sound across the UK.
Having such a variety of genres in the mix, how do you ensure the releases remain cohesive? Appealing to the listeners?
That’s a very good question. Cohesion ain’t what I’m going for, it’s a byproduct. All the songs are old-school focused and are made with that in mind then they naturally become cohesive. Now, with the video edits that I do for the Instagram promos, that’s also where the cohesion takes place. 
Tell us a bit more about that

For the first few releases, it was just the artwork spinning. But because our primary medium is Instagram, people want something that they can engage with. It wasn’t until Janaway – Junglism, our sixth or seventh release, that he suggested creating a video. After that, I realised it made sense to do it every time. And that’s how it became a regular part of our releases.
Where do you source these beautiful two-step videos from? 
The internet. Youtube is my friend. I think it’s good to give people a bit of visual stimulation to accompany the sound. Now it’s come to a point where people have associated these videos with Da Demolition Squad. I also use an online editor which barely has any functions, it forces me to keep it very simple. And ain’t that the beauty of life? Keepin’ it simple. 
Lastly, what’s on the horizon for Da Demolition Squad? What do you expect to see from the underground bass scene? 
More worldwide recognition for the scene in general. I think there are underground communities everywhere around the world, in every country of people that appreciate UK music. We are playing in Tarragona, Spain in April which is very exciting. It’s nice to see the sound getting appreciated more and more outside of the UK.   
Follow: Instagram / Soundcloud

Ravebot
Thirteen years ago, before hitting monumental success with ‘Levels’, Avicii, the Swedish DJ and producer who would become one of the most influential figures in electronic music, released ‘Blessed’. This track came out on May 9, 2011, showcasing Avicii‘s signature melodic piano house style that had already begun to captivate fans worldwide.
‘Blessed’ quickly became a fan favorite, resonating deeply with audiences, especially after Avicii included it in his groundbreaking performance at Tomorrowland 2011. Just two months after its release, the track was being sung by the entire crowd at one of the biggest music festivals in the world, highlighting the immediate impact of Avicii‘s music on the electronic dance community.
The song itself is imbued with uplifting melodies and vibrant energy, characteristics that defined many of Avicii‘s early works and helped to cement his reputation as a master of melodic dance music. Even in its early days, ‘Blessed’ was more than just a track; it was a harbinger of the phenomenal success that Avicii would achieve in the subsequent years.
Sadly, the music world was shocked and saddened by Avicii‘s untimely death on April 20, 2018. His passing was a significant loss to the music industry and fans around the globe. Avicii‘s legacy, however, continues to live on through his music. Tracks like ‘Blessed’ not only showcase his talent but also serve as a reminder of his profound impact on the world of music. His creative genius and spirit remain an inspiration, ensuring that his influence will be felt for generations to come. ‘Blessed’ stands as a testament to his extraordinary talent and his enduring contribution to the world of electronic dance music.
Ravebot
The hero of the documentary Era of Dance and the ideologist of revolutionary rave culture events during the 80s and 90s Indulis Bilzens passed away in Frankfurt following an illness. Last weekend in Frankfurt people from different generations who were close connected to Bilzens, said Adios to the Master (as many called him).
Indulis Bilzens. Born in Riga on April 27, 1940 – a refugee of WW2- graduating from the Latvian Gymnasium in Munster, Cambridge College and Technical University of Stuttgart 
after which he dedicated decades to creating and strengthen the movement of independent media in the post-war era. It all culminated with the founding of the independent Press Corps “ID” in Frankfurt in the 70s which later became the well-known newspaper “Die Tageszeitung” and forming an artist based opposition movement contrary to conservative Germany. He was also the publisher of the avant-garde magazine “D!Fanatic” and worked as a broadcaster for WDR Radio in Cologne and Stuttgart.
Indulis Bilzens during the 80s created independent TV broadcasts (Braeunungsstudio Malaria” and others) where he granted greater freedom over the new talents from the music and arts scene. In the early ’80s, Bilzen’s love affair with electronic music began, introducing German listeners to new talent and giving the stage name to Maximilian Lenz – DJ WestBam. After all, it was thanks to his efforts in the USSR that in 1987 the first Western DJ Westbam came to Riga (part of the Soviet Union back then), whose performance amazed the adherents of the Soviet disco movement, who literally took Westbam’s manifesto about record art. and then transformed into a unique new youth culture.
Bilzens was a visionary man and culture historian who was the driving force and ideologist of many electronic music culture and independent media projects of the 80s and 90s. Bilzen’s influence on the early techno music scene in Germany and the late Soviet Union was undeniable. Berlin’s cult label Low Spirit and the first techno music festival in Europe Mayday are just some of the projects behind which Indulis Bilzēns stood.
The movie ”Era of Dance”, released in 2017 and directed by Viktors Buda, was dedicated to the techno music movement and the relationships between the West and the East. Indulis Bilzens served as a diplomat for this historic invasion, one that would become a cultural phenomena.
Watch the Era of Dance film trailer
The post Indulis Bilzens –  early rave culture ideologist and driving force passed away at the age 84    appeared first on Decoded Magazine.
Ravebot
Desert Hearts Festival has long been defined by a feeling of belonging and solidarity on its universally celebrated dancefloor. It’s a place where self-discoveries are realized, lifelong family is found, and the boundary between artist and reveller evaporates with ease. This year, Desert Hearts has sought a return to its roots, teaming up with its longtime allies at Walter Productions to reinvigorate their foundational ethos at the beautiful Playa Ponderosa in Northern Arizona, July 4-8.
In tune with this mission, Desert Hearts has enlisted artists close to the beating heart of its 12-year journey to raise a flag of unity in its brand-new location. Each selector represents a different chapter in the Desert Hearts saga, a patchwork of longtime family members, Desert Hearts Records mainstays, and those who have inspired the sonic tastes of the founding group since their humble beginnings.
In the words of Desert Hearts Co-Founder Mikey Lion, “The festival industry is in a make-or-break moment of time as it grapples with rising costs, market saturation, and a stalling economy. Independent festivals and the communities that grow around them are the heart and soul of the music world, but they are struggling to survive.”
Mikey continues, “While many festivals focus on recycling the same trending headliners to compete with festival giants, Desert Hearts is taking a different approach. This year our festival is focused on building up our community, showcasing label friends and family, talented local DJs, and a number of our favourite international touring artists. Desert Hearts Festival is “One Stage, One Vibe” playing nonstop House & Techno all weekend long. We’re essentially programming a 72-hour DJ set with the right artists playing the right music at the right time. Everything Desert Hearts Festival does is geared towards creating the best possible vibe, and on July 4th weekend, we’re going to throw the best party in the world.”
Returning attendees will be no stranger to the returning favourites who have soundtracked unforgettable memories on DH dancefloors past including the likes of veteran production duo Walker & Royce fresh off their sophomore album, Berlin techno veteran Anja Schneider, historic clubland favourite Doc Martin, and Los Angeles mainstay VNSSA.
Plenty of world-class international talent will also be scattered among the bill, from Soundgarden founder NickWarren, to, Kater Blau resident Mira, Shanti Radio label head Gorje Hewek, and the unique stylising of Coco & Breezy. Additional acts to discover include the unpredictable expertise of Atish, Andhera label boss Ky William, Burning Man staple Tara Brooks, sister DJ duo Lisbona Sisters, the smooth styling sounds of Life On Planets, the hypnotic sounds of ÖonaDahl, cinematic techno producer Rinzen, four to the floor favourites like Kevin Knapp and Gettoblaster, and the party-starting Ardalan – each artist arrives with their own unique story to tell at Playa Ponderosa.
In true Desert Hearts Fashion, the next generation of house and techno superstars will take centre stage, with sets in tow from Nala, Mary Droppinz, SHADED, and Lubelski.
Of course, attendees can expect alluring journeys from the Desert Hearts crew who know the crowd and dancefloor better than anyone, represented by co-founders Mikey Lion, Marbs, LeeReynolds, and Porky. There will also be a special Desert Hearts crew closing B2B to properly close out the festival.
The partnership between Desert Hearts and Walter Productions stems from a decade-long relationship born at Burning Man. Walter is known for its fleet of art cars, most famously ‘Walter’, the world’s largest VW Bus forged from a retired fire truck. Walter has since expanded its influence on the Arizona arts and music scene with its venues Walter Where?House and Walter Studios, the Walter Station Brewery, and its foundational nonprofit arm, the Walter Hive. The Walter team has been a mainstay of numerous events and festivals like Bonnaroo, EDC and Life is Beautiful, bringing their art cars, travelling stage Kalliope, and larger-than-life fire features and installations to crowds for more than a decade.
Desert Hearts Festival 2024 fittingly takes over July 4th weekend to redefine what it means to be truly free under azure skies. Nestled in the natural splendour of Coconino National Forest just 30 minutes outside of Flagstaff, the 75-acre private property of Playa Ponderosa sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet, smack-dab in the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest — notably one of the most iconic sites in the United States. The private venue will allow Desert Hearts to channel the renegade spirit felt at its original home of Los Coyotes Indian Reservation while offering a cool-weather respite from Arizona’s notorious summer temperatures, with average temperatures ranging from the low 50s to the low 80s.
The 2024 edition will move back to its foundational ‘one-stage, one-vibe’ format and showcase its unique festival layout: an interconnected arena of theme camps, live painters, installations, and art cars that border the entire dance floor – set to the backdrop of the majestic Ponderosa Pines and spectacular views of Flagstaff’s San Francisco Peaks.
For those in pursuit of full sensory immersion, Desert Hearts Festival will provide attendees access to a host theme camps including Pile Palace, which hosts a plush dancefloor lounge and free beverages to patrons, the Dreamscape Collective Art Gallery featuring a tea lounge alongside visionary art, spiritual wellness at the Healing Sanctuary, and a Walter Theme Camp and art car arena around the dance floor, plus a vendor village with craft and clothing vendors as well as a variety of food and beverage options. 
Another key art fixture will be the Black Hole Experience (BHX), an immersive black hole simulation in a mobile format making its USA and festival debut created by Montreal-based environmental organization Age of Union and its founder Dax Dasilva and designed by multidisciplinary artist Kelly Nunes.
Tickets for the 2024 edition of Desert Hearts Festival are currently 70% sold out. For Tickets and More Information on the Desert Hearts Festival Visit: https://desertheartsfestival.us/ 
The post Desert Hearts Festival announces lineup for 2024 edition appeared first on Decoded Magazine.
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Pulse Events unveils a groundbreaking addition to the New York City dance music scene: the highly anticipated U.S. debut of S2O, Asia’s renowned immersive water festival. S2O New York will take place over Labor Day Weekend, from August 31st to September 1st at the iconic Brooklyn Mirage. Ticket pre-sale registration begins on Tuesday, May 14 with general tickets on sale the following day on Wednesday, May 15 on the official website here.
What is S2O? S2O Festival celebrates Songkran (Thai New Year) which involves the tradition of spraying one another with water for good luck. Since its inception in 2015, the event brand has become the world’s biggest Songkran/Thai New Year celebration with events in Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Thailand, Taiwan, Vietnam, and now upcoming in New York. S2O New York attendees will immerse themselves in a water music festival experience with experiential elements as well as a cool indoor lounge for the best end-of-summer experience in the Big Apple. Synonymous with electrifying music and an unforgettable water festival experience, S2O is here to bring a never before seen experience to the U.S. festival circuit. Festival-goers can expect heart-thumping sets by a diverse lineup of established and emerging talent, all while enjoying the water-refreshing atmosphere curated by S2O.
Leading the charge is global superstar Marshmello, marking his Pulse Events debut. Bass music fans can look forward to a set by the the dubstep wubz titan Subtronics, following his recent success at both Barclays Center and S2O Thailand.
S2O New York’s meticulously crafted lineup boasts a wide range of artists. This includes veteran Norwegian DJ Alan Walker, who headlined S2O Taiwan, melodic bass powerhouses Said The Sky and William Black performing a dynamic b2b set, multi-platinum producer and live performer Timmy Trumpet, American big room titan Borgeous, Canadian talent Dzeko, the versatile Kaivon; Asian-American duo ARMNHMR, and the undisputed queen of dubstep, LEVEL UP.
With its proven track record of hosting exceptional live events, Pulse Events has been entrusted to translate S2O’s increasingly global success to the U.S. market. The company aims to represent Asian-Americans within the global dance music community through their productions, showcased by their two successful editions of Spring Festival: Lunar New Year (which celebrates Chinese New Year) and now, the debut edition of S2O New York. Through these experiences, the brand is introducing American audiences to Asian cultural celebrations while creating unforgettable festival experiences. 
Pulse Events’ debut edition of S2O New York will reflect the cultural diversity of the melting-pot city, while simultaneously showcasing world-renowned DJs, stunning visual effects, and exhilarating water-themed elements and performances. Inspired by New York City’s vibrant landmarks and iconic waterways, The Brooklyn Mirage’s sprawling complex, expansive 200-foot LED wall, and city views will provide the perfect backdrop for the inaugural multi-sensory event. 
The post Pulse Events Announces U.S. Debut of S2O Festival, The World’s Wettest Party in NYC appeared first on EDMTunes.
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Get ready, New York City! We Belong Here is set to bring its renowned festival experience to the heart of the Big Apple. From October 4-6, 2024, Wollman Rink in Central Park will be into a vibrant celebration of music, community, and the unique of New York itself. This exciting event promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t want to miss.
We Belong Here has a reputation for creating unforgettable events in iconic locations, and this year’s festival in Central Park is no exception. With a history of hosting successful festivals at historic sites like the first New York Stock Exchange and Bowery Savings Bank, We Belong Here is bringing its magic to Wollman Rink for the first time ever. This move marks a new chapter for the festival, as it expands its reach to the bustling streets of New York City.
“We are creating a refined festival experience in New York that is truly for all New Yorkers—with the fan at the forefront of every decision. We’ve worked tirelessly over the past two years of planning to strike a balance between the most well-received aspects of our Miami festival and an artistic ambiance that is true to the City’s cultural diversity,” said Justin Dauman, Co-Founder of We Belong Here.
Wollman Rink, a cherished New York institution dating back to the 1950s, is the perfect setting for this unique event. Nestled in the heart of Central Park, the rink’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal location for the festival. With its dual identity as both a historic landmark and a bustling public space, Wollman Rink offers a picturesque backdrop for the festivities that are sure to unfold during the We Belong Here Festival.
For the past three years, We Belong Here has captivated audiences with its immersive festivals held at Miami’s Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. Now, the spotlight shifts to New York City, where the festival will make its debut in a location as vibrant and dynamic as the city itself. The anticipation is palpable as fans eagerly await the lineup announcement, ticket releases, and all the exciting details that will make this inaugural New York festival truly unforgettable.
For those eager to secure their spot at this historic event, presale registration is now open at www.webelonghere.world/nycfestival. Be sure to subscribe for updates and be the first to know about the artist lineup, production insights, and more. Get ready to experience the magic of We Belong Here in the heart of the Big Apple!

The post We Belong Here NY Festival in Central Park at Wollman Rink This October appeared first on EDMTunes.
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‘Just Begun,’ is a groundbreaking genre bending collaboration between American electronic act Mojave Grey and Swedish DJ duo Moonshine.
The story begins back in 2023, when the Moonshine brothers, Oliver Simic and Victor Simic, stumbled upon Mojave Grey’s unique rock-infused electronic sound. Totally blown away, they reached out, sparking a year-long creative quest. With a clear vision and a fresh perspective on electronic music, Oliver and Victor guided the project. This fresh outlook not only birthed a new sound for Mojave Grey, but also sent them back to their artistic roots.
Zander Bleck, Mojave Grey’s vocalist, unleashes his impressive range on ‘Just Begun,’ channeling the power he honed touring with Lady Gaga. Meanwhile, Michael Pozzi’s guitar mastery shines through, weaving a tapestry of melody and electrifying riffs that propel the song forward. Moonshine’s production expertise completes the masterpiece, blending raw energy with crisp detail. ‘Just Begun’ is a testament to the magic that happens when artists embrace their individuality while fearlessly exploring new sonic landscapes.
Check it out below and enjoy!
The post Mojave Grey & Moonshine Forge Genre-Bending Gem ‘Just Begun’ appeared first on EDMTunes.
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