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Renowned electronic music producer Eptic has announced an indefinite hiatus from touring, citing exhaustion and a desire to focus on personal well-being.
In a candid post on social media, the Belgian dubstep virtuoso revealed that after years of non-stop travel, he's stepping back to focus on his health, creativity and personal life. Eptic, known for his innovative sound design and heavy-hitting bass music, explained that the relentless nature of his touring schedule has been impacting his ability to create the music he envisions.
"I’ve been traveling the world pretty much constantly since I was 17 and while I wouldn’t trade those experiences for ANYTHING, I’ve realized I can’t make the music/art that I want if I’m this exhausted and on planes all the time," he wrote. "I’m going to take some time to finish and write music, work on my health and spend time with family and friends. If that’s a couple of months or longer is up in the air I can’t really say."
While the hiatus leaves a gap in the touring circuit, Eptic's fans and fellow artists are eager to see what creative projects emerge from this period of reflection. Whether his break lasts a matter of months or years, the focus remains on quality over quantity—a sentiment resonating deeply within his community.
"Absolute legend and well deserved rest!" NGHTMRE commented. "Your music is a constant source of inspiration. Excited to hear what you write during this rest time!"
"Big ups bro, take that time, make that art," Blanke added. "You constantly raise the bar for the quality we should be striving for."
You can read Eptic's full statement below.
Eptic/Instagram
Follow Eptic:
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Instagram: instagram.com/eptic
TikTok: tiktok.com/@eptic
Facebook: facebook.com/eptic
Spotify: spoti.fi/35CnTGp
Ravebot
Ravers across Southern California eager to ring in the new year were recently presented with various electronic events to ring in 2025. From massive indoor raves to multi-stage outdoor festivals, these events provided expanded opportunities for this raucous holiday from Los Angeles to San Diego.
However, out of all of the dance music festivities throughout sunny SoCal, there was one event that stood out amongst the rest due to its location, amenities and killer roster of artists: Proper NYE.
Produced by FNGRS CRSSD, the two-day event returned to its home inside MLB's Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres. For its third iteration, the fest's producers once again partnered with stadium officials to provide an unmatched New Year's experience for dance music enthusiasts.
The Lot Stage, Petco Park Daniela Becerra
Four distinct stages dotted the venue: a grassy knoll, an asphalt lot with city views, an obscure wall with a waterfall feature and a massive mainstage offering stadium seating or standing room only in the field. 
Each locale offered unique curated soundscapes ranging from house, techno, trance and progressive. From veteran house music staples to leading ladies of the techno scene, check out these select photos from some of the performances found at San Diego's Proper NYE.
John Summit.Keiki Knudsen
Green Velvet.Keiki Knudsen
Kaskade.Keiki Knudsen
Dom Dolla.Felicia Garcia
Cassian.Felicia Garcia
Charlotte de Witte. Daniela Becerra
Francis Mercier. Daniela Becerra
Mau P. Daniela Becerra
Boys Noize. Daniela Becerra
Mindchatter. Daniela Becerra
Durante b2b Hana. Daniela Becerra
Elderbrook. Daniela Becerra
Follow Proper NYE:
Facebook: facebook.com/propernye
X: x.com/propernye
Instagram: instagram.com/propernye
Follow CRSSD:
Facebook: facebook.com/FNGRSCRSSD
X: x.com/fngrsxcrssd
Instagram: instagram.com/fngrscrssd
Ravebot
Tulum’s palm trees have long murmured tales of legendary electronic music evenings, but the recent Keinemusik concert at Zamna left another kind of echo in its wake. Known for their flawless mix of deep house and melodic techno, the Berlin-based group faced unheard-of criticism after what many called a fundamentally poor presentation shook the electronic music scene.
What could have been another victory in Keinemusik’s worldwide trip instead became a hot topic of debate when Adam Port abruptly exited midway through the set. Rampa and &ME, the remaining members, carried on performing, but based on several guest reports, the magic that usually defines their presentations had already vanished into the humid Tulum air.
Longtime fans who traveled from as far as Egypt and New York to see what they anticipated would be another unforgettable Keinemusik experience were sharply critical of the performance. Rather, they came across what one seasoned raver called “the worst event in 12 years of raving.” Not confined to casual observations, seasoned fans noted several technical problems, most notably the repeated usage of C Major progressions producing what they regarded as a “flat, dense, and boring” soundscape.
The problems went much beyond music choices. The typically flawless chemistry between Adam Port, Rampa, and &ME seemed strained and uncomfortable as viewers observed obvious conflict between the performing members. This outward conflict turned into a disjointed environment devoid of the cohesive experience Keinemusik has developed their name.
The event has spurred a more general discussion about the change in Tulum’s electronic music scene. Once revered as an underground sanctuary, it is now under scrutiny for putting Instagram-worthy events above musical depth. The Keinemusik concert appears to have turned into a lightning rod for these mounting worries about the commercialization of electronic music culture.
For many ardent supporters, the Zamna concert signaled a possible turning point in their connection with the collective, not only a bad night. Particularly considering the great time, money, and emotional energy many had invested to attend the concert, supporters who had followed Keinemusik across countries voiced not only sadness but also a sense of betrayal.
Although a single performance cannot undo years of musical excellence, the Zamna event has begged serious issues of responsibility in electronic music society. The implicit compact of professional honesty and artistic authenticity becomes ever more important in a time when supporters spend ever more major funds in following their preferred musicians.
The electronic music scene waits and wonders for now whether this event will act as a trigger for transformation or mark another chapter in the continuous development of dance music culture. Clearly, even while the terrain of electronic music keeps changing under our feet, the standards for authenticity and professional commitment remain as high as ever.

The post Keinemusik face backlash from fans after Zamna Tulum show appeared first on The Groove Cartel.
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New York City is adding to its long list of accolades. A world city and arguably the best city in the United States has been named the party capital of the U.S. Beating out Las Vegas and Miami, NYC stands alone at the top.
Mattress Next Day, furniture merchants, awarded the city that never sleeps the new ranking. They analyzed cities across the country for going-out search interest on Google. This included the number of events and clubs, safety, public transit costs, and number of four-star hotels and restaurants.
Gotham grabbed first place, with 610 events occurring at night. This nearly doubles the number of the runner-up (Las Vegas). While most venues close up at 4 am, there are quite a few that stay open all night – Nowadays in Brooklyn for instance. Of course from the dance music side, The Brooklyn Mirage leads the way and was awarded best large club in the country in 2023. NYC has also been named the #1 travel destination in the US by Trip Advisor this year.
Las Vegas, aka Sin City, had over 100,000 Google searches for nightlife events in a given month. It is home to the renowned Las Vegas Strip, huge clubs with DJ residencies, lavish casinos, and a range of restaurants.
Boston came in 3rd reportedly for its restaurant and hotel scene. Austin placed 4th for being the cheapest travel party destination. Rounding out the top 5 was San Diego.
The post New York City Named Party Capital of U.S. appeared first on EDMTunes.
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MatricK‘s original ‘Body Move’ track was already a favorite among dance music enthusiasts, but when Hardwell put his signature spin on it, the remix took on a whole new life. With its pulsating rhythm, catchy melody, and expertly crafted drops, the Hardwell edit of ‘Body Move’ quickly became a mainstay in DJ sets and festival lineups around the world.
What sets Hardwell’s edit of MatricK’s ‘Body Move’ remix apart is his ability to elevate the track without losing the essence of the original. By carefully layering new elements, tweaking the arrangement, and fine-tuning the mix, Hardwell managed to enhance the energy and impact of the remix, making it a standout in both artists’ discographies.
About MatricK
Oleg Korolkov aka MatricK – one of the youngest and brightest representatives of EDM-scene, not only in Russia, but also in the world. His sound is a unique blend of energy, power and melody. He knows how to harmoniously combine the beauty and power of music in all of his tracks.
He started his career back in 2006 and for the past few years, MatricK has made great progress in his music. His tracks and remixes are regularly supported from the world’s DJs such as: Markus Schulz, Paul van Dyk, Andrew Rayel, MaRLo, Bobina, DJ Feel, Giuseppe Ottaviani, Ben Gold and many others. And also you can find his music on a few of the biggest labels in the world including Armada Music, Black Hole Recordings. His radio show “Transformation” broadcasts every Friday on Radio Record, the #1 dance radio station in the Russia.
Every day his music gets more and more fans and attention from the world’s DJs. Maybe MatricK is something new in trance music and he will definitely surprise you. So, keep in touch and get ready for something big!
About Hardwell
Music maturity came swiftly for the now seasoned-veteran Robbert van de Corput, better known as Hardwell. At the age of 25, the young Dutch titan capped off a 10 year journey when he was crowned World’s #1 DJ in the 2013 DJ Mag Top 100 DJs Poll cementing his position as the electronic scenes newest superstar DJ and becoming the youngest ever winner of the coveted Top 100 DJs award. In 2014 the Dutch megastar did it again – being crowned World’s #1 DJ in the 2014 edition of DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs Poll for a second consecutive year. Despite relinquishing his crown in 2015, though still taking the highly respectable second-place spot, it’s clear that Hardwell has already created a legacy that would put most of his counterparts to shame. This award-winning DJ, producer, musician, label owner and lover of all things music has not only helped shape the current state of EDM, but has left an everlasting imprint on it.

The post MatricK – Body Move (Hardwell Edit) appeared first on EDMTunes.
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‘We’ve always believed that the best music is timeless. It has a unique power that can resonate across generations. Ambient music has been a part of Anjuna and Above & Beyond since the beginning, starting with our first album ‘Tri-State.’ Including ambient tracks on our albums has always felt right to us. Music can be comforting and healing, especially living in this hectic world. It’s music that grounds us and helps us find peace. Looking back over 25 years, it’s incredible to see how many timeless pieces have emerged from our labels and how they still have that same feeling.’ – Above & Beyond
The dawn of a new year brings change and much to celebrate at Anjuna HQ. To kick things off, Anjunachill (rebranded from Reflections) is now the third frontline label under the Anjuna umbrella, housing the group’s ambient, downtempo, and chillout catalog. 
In celebration of its 25th anniversary and the launch of Anjunachill, the Anjuna label family is unveiling a brand refresh for 2025. With the design of its own bespoke typeface, ‘Decima Sans,’ and the iconic ‘Anjuna A’ at its core, the refreshed identity honors Anjuna’s rich heritage while establishing a versatile design foundation for the label’s future growth.
Alongside longstanding flagship imprints Anjunabeats and Anjunadeep—two of the world’s most respected imprints in dance music—Anjunachill is keeping the brand’s signature ethos with emotive and melodic music at its core. While the Anjuna brand is historically synonymous with quality dancefloor-dominating club records, ranging from trance and progressive to deep house, Above & Beyond’s newest imprint, 
Anjunachill lives in the worlds of ambient, downtempo, and chillout – genres with a rich, intertwined history with dance music and the Anjuna brand itself.  Anjunachill is the latest chapter of a journey that began with Above & Beyond at Burning Man in 2014. Following a spontaneous sunset yoga set on the iconic Robot Heart stage, this transformative experience sparked the creation of their dedicated yoga and meditation album, ‘Flow State.’
Following the success of ‘Flow State,’ in 2020, the first EP in a new chillout series, ‘Reflections Vol. 1,’ was released on Anjunadeep. This marked a pivotal moment in establishing a dedicated home for Anjuna’s chillout catalog. Officially launched in May 2022 as Reflections, the label flourished as a standalone space for ambient and downtempo music.
Over the past three years, the Reflections label has released over 250 recordings from 70+ artists, amassing over 150 million streams. The label has released critically acclaimed albums from Mark Barrott, Cephas Azariah, Yotto, and Croquet Club, receiving glowing coverage from Pitchfork, Resident Advisor, and BBC Radio 6 Music. With standout live showcases at Glastonbury and sold-out events at ADE, Reflections has established its reputation as a credible tastemaker in the chillout space. Now, Anjunachill proudly carries the torch, continuing to champion, discover, and nurture some of the finest talents in ambient, downtempo, and neo-classical music.
To long-time fans of Anjuna and Above & Beyond, the Anjunachill rebrand will come as no surprise; quieter moments have always been essential components of the band’s chart-topping electronic albums. The chillout genre is one the Anjuna family of labels have a long history in – from catalog classics on Above & Beyond albums like their debut LP title track ’Tri-State’ and ’Sun In Your Eyes’ from Group Therapy, to much-loved fan-favorite moments from Andrew Bayer, Cubicolor and Croquet Club, to the RIAA-certified Gold ‘Don’t Leave’ (a single from the ‘Flow State’ album) in 2019.
Artist priorities for 2025 include Cephas Azariah, Mark Barrott, and newcomers Planet of Souls. Planet of Souls is the exciting new downtempo alias of prolific producer Paul Rogers (NERD, Gorillaz, and Pete Tong) and close friend Tom Barlow, a sound design master.  Anjunachill also welcomes new additions to the label, including Anjunadeep’s Luttrell, Steven Weston, BAILE, and Cornelius SA, Anjunabeats’ PROFF, as well as new faces in the form of South African neo-classical duo Ad Harmonium and British producer Toutounji.
Anjunachill’s first release comes on January 14 by way of Above & Beyond’s new single, ‘Shall We Begin.’ Debuting as the intro for Above & Beyond’s guest mix on the 500th episode of the Anjunadeep Edition last summer, ’Shall We Begin’ is a moving downtempo electronic piece that takes listeners on a three-minute emotional journey. Echoing the sweeping soundscapes of their iconic ‘Flow State’ album, the track is poignant, reflective, sentimental, and captivating. In October 2024, 15,000 fans got a sneak preview of ‘Shall We Begin’ as it served as the soundtrack to the mysterious ‘Anjuna 25’ teaser video played right before Above & Beyond’s headline set at Above & Beyond’s 600th Group Therapy Radio Show (ABGT600) in Mexico City. This aptly named tune not only kicks off the Anjunachill label but ushers in an exciting era for Above & Beyond, who are set to play at the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in Indio, California, this April.
‘Shall We Begin’ is available worldwide on January 14 via Anjunachill.
The post Above & Beyond announces the rebranding of their third frontline label, Anjunachill appeared first on Decoded Magazine.
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Magickal by Damian Lazarus Damian Lazarus has released his fifth studio album, Magickal via Crosstown Rebels. In a move that defies industry norms, the album lands as a shock drop—bypassing the trend of staggered single releases and instead offering the extended artistic experience from day one.
“With Magickal, I wanted to do things differently. I’ve sought to bypass the current trend of drawn-out single drops and fragmented album experiences. For me, this is about returning to the idea of an album as a complete, cohesive artistic statement—a pinnacle moment rather than an afterthought. After the release, we’ll explore the music further with singles, remixes, and a world tour, where I’m planning to present the album in some fresh, innovative ways. All to be revealed soon.” – Damian Lazarus.
Coinciding with the album’s release is Day Zero, Damian’s legendary annual festival that brings music, nature, and community together. Created to celebrate the end of the Mayan calendar in 2012, Day Zero has become more than just an iconic event and stands as a cultural pillar and benchmark for immersive experiences on the global festival circuit. Set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty deep in the Mexican jungles of Tulum, Day Zero seamlessly blends music and cutting-edge production with deep respect for local culture, heritage, and traditions. By integrating rituals and customs into its programming while adopting sustainable practices, Day Zero sets a precedent for how modern events can honour ancient traditions in meaningful and contemporary ways. A central piece of Damian’s expansive world, this ethos not only inspires his creative vision and process but also forms the foundation for the immersive world of Magickal – mirroring the album’s themes of unity, transcendence, and the magical power of connection, and providing the perfect launchpad for the LP.
Crafted during a transformative period in Damian’s life, Magickal reflects his newfound sobriety and evolved outlook, channelling clarity and emotional depth into every track. Featuring an impressive lineup of collaborators, the album draws on global influences while revisiting key moments from Damian’s extensive discography. Highlights include ‘Alive’, a blend of pop sensibilities and Damian’s signature sound featuring the Bloom Twins, and the flamenco-infused ‘La Hija De Juan Simón’ with Spanish duo Méstiza. Other standout tracks include the amapiano-inspired ‘Warrior Dance’ with Ghanaian artist Jojo Abot, ‘Falling Down’, a collaboration with TEED and A-Trak, alongside Mathew Jonson’s virtuoso contributions on ‘Are You Dreaming?’ and Zoe Kypri’s soulful vocals on ‘So Low’.
Themes of mental elevation and sonic exploration run throughout Magickal. Tracks like ‘Sunrise Generation’ featuring Fink evoke moments of collective awe and spiritual upliftment, inspired by gatherings at sunrise. Damian’s ability to weave these emotional touchpoints with innovative rhythms solidifies his reputation as a master of musical transcendence – with luminous lead single ‘Searchin’ alongside Jem Cooke, whose collaboration with Damian dates back to ‘Flourish’ in 2020, dropping alongside the album and accompanied by a remix from Rekids head honcho, Radio Slave.
Additional singles, including the aforementioned ‘Alive’ and ‘Warrior Dance’, plus new edits and expansive remixes, will follow the release, alongside a world tour featuring appearances at Coachella and more. The Crosstown boss will also host a unique launch event at Nômade in Tulum (January 8), with a series of performances from special guests and unique activations for those in attendance. With Magickal, Damian Lazarus reaffirms his status as a trailblazer in electronic music, offering a profound journey into sound, spirit, and connection.
Damian will bring this sense of magic to his upcoming album tour, with renowned magician DEKAY joining him at select dates to perform street magic and illusions for the crowd. Kicking off with Day Zero, the Magickal World Tour will touch four continents throughout the first half of 2025 with over 40 stops in Italy, Mexico, France, Spain, Indonesia, Turkey, Germany, Brazil, and more. On the US front, Damian will headline iconic venues in New York, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and El Paso, along with Damian’s performances at both weekends of Coachella. Other notable dates include festival appearances at Piknic Elektronik and UNUM Festival, as well as the return of his Hï Ibiza residency.

Magickal Tracklist
1. Searchin’ (feat. Jem Cooke)
2. So Low (feat. Zoe Kypri)
3. Why Don’t U
4. Falling Down (feat. Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs & A-Trak)
5. La Hija De Juan Simon (feat. Mestiza)
6. R U Dreaming? (feat. Mathew Jonson)
7. Sunrise Generation (feat. Fink)
8. Force (feat. Jojo Abot)
Additional Singles:
Alive (feat. Bloom Twins)
Warrior Dance (feat. Jojo Abot)
Stream / Download here
The post Damian Lazarus releases new album Magickal  appeared first on Decoded Magazine.
Ravebot
Maribou State — the duo made up of Chris Davids and Liam Ivory — share new single “All I Need”; a slice of signature Maribou State featuring soulful vocals from MOBO nominated artist Andreya Triana, who’s previously worked with the likes of Bonobo, Flying Lotus and Jungle. It’s the third and final single to be shared from Maribou State’s highly anticipated new album ‘Hallucinating Love’, set for release January 31st 2025 on Ninja Tune. 
Speaking more on the new single Maribou State comment; “On ‘Hallucinating Love’ we made a conscious effort to stop using garage-style vocals so used some Andreya Triana samples, and then did a session with her where we recorded them. We’d wanted to work with Andreya for ages and played her a few ideas. The one she went for was “All I Need”. And we were like, by the way, that’s you on the chorus, doing the vocals, which she loved. She ended up doing the verse vocals for it as well so it became a whole Andreya tune where she’s effectively duetting with herself. At the time we were heavily referencing Aphex Twin with the drums being hip-hoppy but also having this glitchiness to them, but the Andreya sample gives it this big 80s-style chorus.”
As part of a huge UK / EU tour kicking off this month (over 45k tickets in total) the band are playing three shows at London’s 10k+ capacity Alexandra Palace in February (two of which sold out in a matter of hours, with the third close to selling out). Previous acts to play three nights at the iconic venue in recent history include Fred Again…, Four Tet and Dermot Kennedy. The shows will mark a triumphant and poignant moment for the duo, following the news shared earlier this year by Chris Davids that he had undergone a major operation for a rare brain condition, from which he has only just begun to return to the studio and rehearsals full time. The band also recently announced a massive North American tour for Spring 2025, their first full band live dates on the continent in six years with stops in New York, Boston, Chicago, Toronto and many more.
“All I Need” arrives shortly after the release of recent singles “Bloom” and “Otherside” which feature long-time collaborator and vocalist Holly Walker. The releases received widespread support from the likes of Pitchfork (“Songs You Must Hear”), NME, Clash, The Line of Best Fit, Billboard and Mixmag, as well as receiving support across BBC Radio 1 and 6 from champions including Jack Saunders, Pete Tong, Mary Anne Hobbs, Lauren Laverne, Danny Howard and Sian Elleri who named “Otherside” R1’s ‘Chillest Record’ on release week.
‘Hallucinating Love’ is out on January 31st on Ninja Tune. Available via here
The post Maribou State drop new single appeared first on Decoded Magazine.
Ravebot
Hold up, dance music lovers! That sound you hear might just be the beat dropping… on TikTok‘s future. A recent Supreme Court hearing has sent shockwaves through the online world, and the ripples could seriously impact how we discover, share, and enjoy dance music.
The highest court in the land just heard arguments in NetChoice v. Bonta, a case challenging controversial laws in Florida and Texas that aim to control content moderation on social media. While these states claim they’re protecting free speech, many, including the companies behind TikTok and other platforms, are sounding the alarm, arguing that these laws violate the First Amendment and could spell disaster for online communities, including our beloved dance music scene.
The Bad News: The Court Seems Open to a Ban
Here’s the part that should have us all worried: the Supreme Court justices’ questions during the oral arguments suggest they might be leaning towards upholding these laws, or at least significant parts of them. This is a major shift from what many expected, and it could have serious consequences for TikTok and the vibrant dance music culture that thrives on the platform.
Why This is a HUGE Deal for Dance Music on TikTok
TikTok isn’t just another social media platform; it’s a cultural powerhouse for dance music. Think about:
Viral Dance Challenges: Countless dance crazes have launched careers and propelled tracks to the top of the charts. The Rise of Bedroom Producers: TikTok’s algorithm has democratized music, allowing talented, independent artists to reach massive audiences. The Ultimate Music Discovery Tool: Forget radio, TikTok is where many of us find our next favorite track or artist. The Potential Fallout: A Bleak Picture for Online Music
If the Supreme Court upholds these laws, it could be like throwing a massive wet blanket on the fire that is TikTok’s dance music scene. Here’s a breakdown of the potential nightmare scenario:
TikTok Could Be Forced to Change Drastically, or Even Leave Some States: If platforms are forced to carry all content, regardless of how harmful or irrelevant, it could lead to an increase in spam, hate speech, and other undesirable content. This would dilute the user experience, and make it nearly impossible to find the music that makes TikTok so engaging. The court’s decision may cause TikTok to change its format to avoid costly lawsuits. They may even pull out of some states altogether. The Algorithm Under Threat: The magic of TikTok lies in its algorithm, which is incredibly good at serving up the perfect dance music tracks. These laws could severely restrict how the algorithm works, making it harder to find the music we crave. The justices seemed particularly interested in the power of these algorithms. A Creative Chill: Creators, the lifeblood of the platform, might be less likely to post, fearing legal repercussions or a flood of negative content. This could stifle the creativity that fuels the dance music scene on TikTok. The Justices’ Skepticism: A Glimmer of Hope?
While the overall tone of the hearing was concerning, the justices did express skepticism about certain aspects of the laws. They questioned whether these laws were overly broad and whether they truly protected free speech. However, their questions also revealed a deep distrust of the power held by social media platforms, particularly regarding content moderation and the influence of algorithms.
What’s Next: Brace for Impact
The Supreme Court is expected to issue its ruling later this year. The outcome could reshape the internet as we know it, and have a profound impact on the future of dance music online. The justices’ questions have made it clear that major changes are likely coming to TikTok.
This is a call to action, dance music fam! We need to pay attention to this case and be ready to defend the online spaces where our community thrives. The future of how we discover, share, and create dance music could be at stake.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments. Are you worried about the future of TikTok and its impact on dance music?
The post TikTok on the Chopping Block? Supreme Court Hearing Signals Trouble for the Future of Dance Music Online appeared first on EDMTunes.
Ravebot
Electronic music artist Maddy O'Neal was drugged at her own show over the weekend, she revealed on social media.
The incident, she said, occurred Sunday night after her performance at Schmiggity's Live Music Dance Bar in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. O'Neal, who was recently featured in EDM.com's list of the best performances of 2024, shared her experience in a candid X thread.
"Got drugged at my own fucking show last night… after such an epic weekend had to end it like that," O'Neal said. "Feeling pretty violated and disheartened with humanity today."
O'Neal went on to express gratitude that the ordeal happened post-show and that she was surrounded by friends at the time. However, she did not hold back her anger and frustration, adding, "When you give so much and just trying to be a little bit of light in the world it's pretty fucked to know there’s ppl [sic] like that out there."
Another woman, Erika Barger, also claimed to have been drugged at the show and is now planning to file a police report, she said in a comment shared on an Instagram post from Schmiggity's.
Schmiggity's Live Music Dance Bar/Instagram
The incidents underscore the persistent issue of date rape drugs at music venues and events, with performers themselves now becoming targets.
70% of young adults have either experienced or witnessed drink-spiking, according to a report published last year by LADbible Group and Stamp Out Spiking. A staggering 87% of victims choose not to report their experiences to authorities, citing reasons such as insufficient evidence, concerns about a lack of police intervention and believing it was too late to report after the incident.
A new California law, AB 1013, went into effect in 2024 to take action against the disturbing trend of drink-spiking in nightlife venues. The ordinance requires businesses to offer onsite "test strips, stickers, straws, and other devices designed to detect the presence of controlled substances in a drink."
Officials in Austin, Texas took similar measures back in April, when they launched the "Sip Safely" drink-spiking awareness program through a $100,000 City Council budget. Participating nightlife establishments offered onsite drug-testing materials and drink covers while the city provided training for employees on drink-spiking response, opioid overdose awareness and sexual assault prevention and intervention.
Follow Maddy O'Neal:
X: x.com/maddy_oneal
Instagram: instagram.com/maddy_oneal
TikTok: tiktok.com/@maddy.oneal.music
Facebook: facebook.com/maddyonealmusic
Spotify: spoti.fi/3xv4PYE
Ravebot
A member of the legendary trio Swedish House Mafia will perform at Igloofest Montreal this weekend, a sight that is not often seen in Canada. In fact, on January 31, 2025, Igloofest Montreal is set to host an electrifying night featuring Steve Angello,  just after KILIMANJARO will have made his mark with his smooth Afrobeat sounds. This event, part of Igloofest’s 17th edition running from January 16 to February 8, promises to be a highlight for electronic music enthusiasts braving the winter chill.
Steve Angello’s performance is highly anticipated, given his influential presence in the electronic music scene. As a member of the Swedish House Mafia, Angello has been instrumental in shaping the genre, and his solo acts are known for their dynamic energy and immersive soundscapes. Moreover, this looks to be one of the few performances of the artists of the year, as he took social media by surprise at the beginning of the year when he announced his plans to slow down in 2025.
Since 2007, Igloofest has united thousands of music fans to dance under the stars in the Old Port of Montréal. With its winter decor blending into the steel structures, its striking architectural scenography, its program featuring the best local and international artists, its surprising and playful Igloovillage and its improbable snowsuit contest, Igloofest is one of the hippest events in the city and one of the most talked about across the country. This year, and for its 17th edition, Igloofest is taking over Montreal’s Old Port with an avalanche of emotions and four weekends of parties.
For more information and tickets, please visit the official website.
Stay tuned for more news!
The post Igloofest Welcomes Steve Angello to Close Out the Month appeared first on EDMTunes.
Ravebot
Get ready to immerse yourself in a night of electrifying beats and pulsating rhythms as Solomun, the world-renowned DJ and producer, graces Brooklyn Storehouse with his presence on February 28 and March 1, 2025. Organized by teksupport, this highly anticipated event promises to be a spectacle like no other, drawing music lovers from far and wide to experience the magic of Solomun’s legendary live performances.
Known for his unmatched talent behind the decks and his ability to captivate audiences with his unique blend of deep house and techno, Solomun has solidified his place as one of the most influential figures in the electronic music scene. With a career spanning decades and a discography filled with chart-topping hits, Solomun’s live sets are nothing short of unforgettable, leaving fans in awe of his musical prowess.
Whether you’re a seasoned electronic music aficionado or a casual listener looking to dance the night away, Solomun’s upcoming performances at Brooklyn Storehouse are not to be missed. So mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and prepare yourself for a night of pure musical bliss!
About Solomun
Solomun by Insomniac Solomun plays a major role in redefining European house music with productions, remixes and DJing by taking the very building blocks of House and deftly reconstructing them with a modern twist. A respected underground DJ and producer for a number of years, his stratospheric rise in popularity kicked off in 2012. The same year Mixmag Magazine voted him as “DJ of the Year”. 
His Ibiza success story began in 2013, when he inaugurated his infamous “Solomun+1”-residency at Pacha, which instantly became the island’s go-to event on Sunday nights. 2015 saw the commencement of his second residency concept: “Solomun+live” is an outdoor daytime event with nothing but live-acts as his special guests. Solomun loves working in the studio, but his passion for DJing and performing is obvious to anyone who has seen him play anywhere around the world. His infamous Boiler Room set from early 2015 is the fastest growing Boiler Room video of all time, with around 8 million views – and counting. He is not afraid of taking the audience on a journey. 
About his style, where vigour, deepness and emotion go hand in hand in a very musical way, Solomun once said: “People have emotions. So why not on a dancefloor?” Running two successful labels, (Diynamic, 2DIY4) or the Diynamic Radio show, which is broadcasted in about 30 countries – it is all connected with Solomun’s passion for music. He does so much in the same way he manages the variety of influences on his music: with a soft touch, a little dance move and real honest commitment to “Doing It Yourself”.
About Teksupport
Teksupport provides the solution for house and techno Where other events have fallen short, Teksupport will provide quality curation from the best electronic music has to offer, paired with production and sound of the highest quality, taking place at engaging and accessible venues. Teksupport will be committed to crafting experiences of the highest caliber, leveraging the worlds of house and techno. With approximately one event per month, Teksupport will make each event a unique journey through sound. Built on a foundation of finely curated production, Teksupport is inspired by the artistic originality present in the world of electronic music, and its overall contribution to the evolving culture of New York and the creative community behind it. The brand solemnly focuses on providing an atmosphere and sanctuary where everyone can all gather with one thing in common – the pure love of electronic music.
The post Solomun Coming To Brooklyn Storehouse appeared first on EDMTunes.
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Spiderbait – Black Betty (Dom Dolla Remix)
Dom Dolla has blown up massively over the past year with a lot of that uptick in popularity coming from his epic remix of Spiderbait’s ‘Black Betty.’ They had already put their spin on the original track by Ram Jam adding a whole lot more energy and then in 2023 Dom Dolla threw in a bit of house creating a track that blew up incredibly quickly. Videos of the remix from his sets went viral and then while performing in his homeland of Australia he got Spiderbait to join him to perform the song live together sending the thousands of people watching into raptures.
Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit (Don Diablo Remix)
There’s no shortage of great remixes from Don Diablo including one of ‘Mr Brightside’ by The Killers, however it’s one of his unreleased remixes which has left fans wanting more for years. Nirvana’s ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ is one of the best grunge songs in history that would be hard to improve upon, but Don Diablo’s remix is undoubtably an absolute heater that brought this Nirvana classic into the electronic music world in style. Unfortunately, it was never officially released due to rights issues, and it will remain a case of what could have been.
AC/DC – You Shook Me All Night Long (MOONLGHT Remix)
When it comes to picking out a rock remix from MOONLGHT you’re really spoiled for choice with his wonderfully funky takes on Lynyrd Skynyrd’s ‘Free Bird’, Led Zeppelin’s ‘Immigrant Song’ and many more. Though it’s his remix of ‘You Shook Me All Night Long’ that stands out as one of the best as he masterfully transformed a rock classic into a house banger seamlessly. This song takes AC/DC from classic rock to club anthem with ease and is damn near impossible not to dance along to.
Nothing Else Matters vs F*CKING SOCIETY – Metallica vs Hardwell (Hardwell Mashup)
Hardwell’s return to the music scene in 2022 was huge and he came back with the insane ‘REBELS NEVER DIE’ album. On the deluxe edition we were further treated with the addition of the massive mashup of ‘Nothing Else Matters’ and ‘F*CKING SOCIETY’ which Hardwell had been blasting in his live sets. Blending Metallica’s timeless ballad into his new big room techno sound is something few would have thought of and fewer would have tried, but Hardwell made it work flawlessly.
Oliver Heldens, Piero Pirupa – We Don’t Need (Original Track: Pink Floyd – Another Brick In The Wall, Pt.2)
Remixing classic songs is not unfamiliar to Oliver Heldens having done a very funky version of ‘I Was Made For Lovin’ You’ by Kiss and turning Depeche Mode’s ‘Speak To Me’ into a thunderous techno track. To try remix these classics is no easy feat, yet each one he has done is brilliant and his version of Pink Floyd’s ‘Another Brick In The Wall, Pt.2’ is another display of his talents. The switch from the original vocals and guitar to Heldens’ heavy bass sound creates a powerful drop that no one would have foreseen in the song when it was originally released.
Ravebot
What’s even better than a three-day rave featuring the biggest names electronic music has to offer? A three-day rave featuring the biggest names has to offer on a boat to Jamaica. Enter: Groove Cruise 2025.
Featuring massive industry names like MEDUZA, James Hype, Eric Prydz, Seven Lions, Nicole Moudaber & more, Groove Cruise is entering its biggest year yet. For the first time ever, the Groove Cruise will be aboard Royal Caribbean’s “Allure of the Seas,” part of the liners massive, award winning Oasis class of ships. 
With on board entertainment, daily themes, and beach vibes to put the rhythm in your rave, here’s all you need to know going into Groove Cruise 2025:
Daily Themes
You can’t really groove without getting in the mood, and what better way to do that than with outfits and costumes to match the energy of this electric festival on water?
For the first day on board (Thursday, January 23rd) cruisers will be representing their hometowns with jerseys of their sports team, something to identify their city, or white if they’re a Groove Cruise virgin. However, by night, things start to get spicy, with “Nauti Sleepover” bringing the lingerie or just a chance to jam in your best PJs.
On day two (Friday, January 24th) it’s time to appeal to that sweet tooth with your favorite candy themed outfits and costumes as part of the “50 Shades of Candyland” theme. At night, the Hollywood lights will shine bright, with “Stars on Deck” bringing costumes and outfits inspired by your favorite Hollywood characters and icons alike.
With day three (Saturday, January 25th) marking beach day for Groove Cruisers, naturally that brings “Tropic Like its Hot,” with palm tree, coconut, and beach themed attire. When the sun sets on those sandy shores however, it’s time to whip out those cowboy boots and wild west wear, with “Only Farms.”
Finally, day four (Sunday, January 26th) brings “Neon Splash” by day and the mystical magic of “Realm of Enchantment” by night. 
On Board Entertainment
The Groove Cruise, making its debut on Royal Caribbean’s “Allure of the Seas” brings all its mesmerizing amenities with it. This includes on-board ziplining, rock wall climbing, mini golfing, an arcade, 22 different dining options, shopping & more. Not to mention, a handful of artist fan experiences including artist hosted dinners & excursions.
Day at Shore
Of course, with Groove Cruise, the fun on board is only half the story, with day three featuring a full day ashore Labadee’s Private Paradise – a Royal Caribbean private destination on Haiti’s northern coast. With the private paradise’s coral reefs, pristine sands, and crystal blue water, ravers will have their choice of the following activities below, just to name a few among many more:
·      Boat & island tours
·      The Dragon’s Breath Flight Line: a half-mile-long zip line over the beautiful crystal-clear ocean, reaching speeds of up to 40 mph.
·      The Dragon’s Fire Flight Line: A headfirst zipline adventure racing along 2,800 feet of cable over the sandy shores of Labadee.
·      The Dragon’s Tail Roller Coaster: An alpine-style mountainside coaster giving adrenaline-filled, scenic views of the paradise island below.
·      Private Cabanas
For those looking for more details on Groove Cruise 2025’s on-board experience, prepared to set sail from Miami on Thursday, January 23rd, click here. But most importantly, rave on!
Ravebot
Continuing right where he left off in 2024, future psytrance trailblazer MR.BLACK has announced that he will bring his ‘Trip 2 Fantasy‘ concept brand to Bangkok in Thailand for the very first time, and to MUIN Bangkok Club when being more precise. Following the first successful ‘Trip 2 Fantasy’ events held in Tokyo, Japan, a milestone in itself of course, MR.BLACK is now further expanding his concept to a whole different country, with this immersive event set to take place on the 31st of January, 2025.
Renowned for his hard-hitting productions and truly energetic live sets, MR.BLACK is more than set on wrecking havoc with his ‘Trip 2 Fantasy’ debut event in Thailand, and in doing so, everyone in attendance can expect an experience that will create memories for a lifetime. A true musical pioneer, MR.BLACK blends fast BPMs with a fusion of psy elements, eastern influences, and techno amongst others, making for a signature sound that cannot go amiss. The ultimate of entertainers, ‘Trip 2 Fantasy’ in Thailand will mark yet another immense endeavour for this legendary act, and in turn, we cannot wait for what he has in store for us all next.
Bringing the absolute heat on the constant, MR.BLACK’s debut ‘Trip 2 Fantasy’ event in Thailand is set to be written in the history books, with the man of the moment also eagerly awaiting for this groundbreaking endeavour. Edging ever closer, be sure to check out MUIN Bangkok Club’s official website for further information on the full lineup, set times and ticket purchasing. Will you be joining the madness in Thailand on the 31st of January? If yes, let us know in the comments section.

Ravebot
Jody Vukas continues his streak of captivating releases with a powerful Progressive House remix of CoShade’s ‘All Is A Dream’, featured as part of a remix pack released through Addictive Sounds. Known for his ability to craft immersive soundscapes and dynamic energy, Jody brings his signature production style to this reimagining, delivering a track that pays homage to the original while carving out its own distinct sonic identity, highlighting Jody Vukas’ style and sound.
The remix opens with a driving beat, immediately drawing listeners into a rich auditory experience; uplifting pads and striking sonic elements guide the track, setting an expansive tone that steadily builds in intensity. As the track progresses, the bassline emerges as a central force, unleashing the remix’s full power while maintaining a balance of finesse and drive; arpeggiated synth lines weave through the arrangement, adding layers of energy and movement, keeping listeners engaged as the track evolves.
Jody Vukas skillfully highlights CoShade’s original while infusing it with his unique sound and production style; the result is an electrifying and immersive journey that invites listeners to join and let themselves be guided through a unique and stimulating listening experience. By blending the essence of the original with his forward-thinking approach, Jody creates a remix that stands out and showcases his ability to innovate while remaining true to the spirit of the track.
Out now via Addictive Sounds, Jody Vukas’ remix of ‘All Is A Dream’ is a must-hear for fans of the genre, as this release continues to reinforce his reputation as a rising name with a talent for delivering both energy and emotion in equal measure.
Stream or download the remix on all major platforms, and make sure to follow Jody Vukas across social media to stay updated on his latest projects, releases and live shows.
Listen and Buy to ‘All Is A Dream’ here:
Jody Vukas Online
Website | Instagram | Spotify
Addictive Sounds Online
Instagram | Beatport
Ravebot
Nostalgix, the bass house queen, returns to Dim Mak with her latest single, ‘Power,’ featuring Bipolar Sunshine. This electrifying track showcases distorted basslines, a captivating lead melody, and a standout vocal performance by Bipolar Sunshine.

Following the release of ‘Don’t Keep Me Waiting’ and “Show Me Love,’ ‘Power’ completes a trilogy of singles, culminating in a music video directed by Nostalgix herself. The video, featuring both Nostalgix and Bipolar Sunshine in a retro Mercedes (a nod to the ‘Show Me Love’ video), tells a deeply personal story of Nostalgix’s journey through darkness and emergence into a place of newfound strength and self-empowerment.
In her own words; “Power” truly captures the growth and transformation I was experiencing in my life at the time. When I was making “Don’t Keep Me Waiting” and “Show Me Love,” I was going through a very dark period in my life. ‘Power’ truly felt like the time where I was coming out of that struggle, stepping into my true self and embracing strength. Embracing my power.
She adds; The music video for “Power” is by far my favorite I’ve directed yet. A huge shoutout to Giovanni Carbajal for helping bring that vision to life, and working so hard by my side to make the video what it is today. Fun fact, if you watch the music video for ‘Don’t Keep Me Waiting’, then ‘Show Me Love’, then ‘Power’ you’ll see the beautiful storyline and transformation that happens within those records, along with some hidden messages in the videos.”

NOSTALGIX ON TOUR
January 24 – City at Night, Ottawa, ON
January 25 – Rum Runners, London, ON
January 31 – The Rave/Eagles Club, Milwaukee, WI
February 14 – Festivoix, Trois-Rivières, QC
May 30 – The Brooklyn Mirage, Brooklyn, NY
The post Nostalgix Releases New Single ‘Power’ Featuring Bipolar Sunshine appeared first on EDMTunes.
Ravebot
Taking over the MUIN Bangkok Club on the 31st of January, 2025, MR.BLACK has announced his debut ‘Trip 2 Fantasy’ event in Thailand. 
Continuing right where he left off in 2024, future psytrance trailblazer MR.BLACK has announced that he will bring his ‘Trip 2 Fantasy‘ concept brand to Bangkok in Thailand for the very first time, and to MUIN Bangkok Club when being more precise. Following the first successful ‘Trip 2 Fantasy’ events held in Tokyo, Japan, a milestone in itself of course, MR.BLACK is now further expanding his concept to a whole different country, with this immersive event set to take place on the 31st of January, 2025.

Renowned for his hard-hitting productions and truly energetic live sets, MR.BLACK is more than set on wrecking havoc with his ‘Trip 2 Fantasy’ debut event in Thailand, and in doing so, everyone in attendance can expect an experience that will create memories for a lifetime. A true musical pioneer, MR.BLACK blends fast BPMs with a fusion of psy elements, eastern influences, and techno amongst others, making for a signature sound that cannot go amiss. The ultimate of entertainers, ‘Trip 2 Fantasy’ in Thailand will mark yet another immense endeavour for this legendary act, and in turn, we cannot wait for what he has in store for us all next.

Bringing the absolute heat on the constant, MR.BLACK’s debut ‘Trip 2 Fantasy’ event in Thailand is set to be written in the history books, with the man of the moment also eagerly awaiting for this groundbreaking endeavour. Edging ever closer, be sure to check out MUIN Bangkok Club’s official website for further information on the full lineup, set times and ticket purchasing. Will you be joining the madness in Thailand on the 31st of January? If yes, let us know in the comments section.

Find out more and follow: 
Mr Black – Instagram | Muin Bankok – Instagram
The post MR.BLACK announces debut ‘Trip 2 Fantasy’ event in Thailand appeared first on Electric Mode.
Ravebot
The BPM Festival, one of the most iconic names in electronic music festivals, has announced the cancellation of its 2025 Costa Rica edition. The decision comes after a series of unexpected challenges related to permits and local authorities, despite having initially secured all necessary permits for the event.
What Happened: A 24-Hour Battle for Approval
According to the festival’s official statement, the BPM Festival team had worked tirelessly to ensure that everything was in place for the event. In the days leading up to the festival, authorities unexpectedly closed the event’s permits on January 9th, prompting emergency meetings and legal proceedings. The team, which included international members, quickly responded and appeared before a local court. They were granted reaffirmation that the event was, in fact, fully authorized.

However, despite overcoming these hurdles, the festival faced opposition from certain forces within Costa Rica that seemed determined to stop the event from moving forward. This, combined with the challenges of producing events in remote, “jungle-like” locations, led to the heartbreaking decision to cancel the festival for the 2025 edition.
BPM’s Commitment to Local Communities
Since its inception in 2008, the BPM Festival has supported local communities when hiring. Unlike many larger festivals, BPM likes employing local workers at each event, ensuring that its presence brings tangible economic benefits to the area. On average, the festival contributes 8 to 10 million US dollars annually to the local Costa Rican economy. BPM emphasized their commitment to local workers and ensuring they always comply with local laws and gain all necessary permits.
Looking Ahead: Refunds and the Festival’s Resilience
Despite the disappointment, BPM expressed gratitude to its loyal fans and emphasized that the festival would continue to push forward. They acknowledged the struggles faced by many festivals in the post-COVID era but reaffirmed that BPM has remained resilient and committed to delivering quality events despite the setbacks. Fans who purchased tickets to the 2025 Costa Rica event will be provided with full details about ticket refunds on Wednesday, January 15th.

BPM also asked for continued support and respect from its fans during this time, reiterating its dedication to putting on world-class festivals in the future.
Conclusion
Though BPM Festival Costa Rica 2025 has faced a tough setback, the festival’s resilience and dedication to the community continue to shine through. Despite this disappointment, BPM’s legacy as a champion of both electronic music and local economies remains intact, and fans can look forward to what the future holds.
The post BPM Festival Cancels 2025 Costa Rica Event appeared first on EDMTunes.
Ravebot
Renowned 26-year-old Belgian Drum & Bass DJ and producer Andromedik formally started 2025 with a boom, releasing his much-awaited new tune, “Air“. Featuring the expressive vocals of UK artist Lauren L’aimant, the song is the ideal introduction to what looks to be another incredible year for the young star.
Specifically created to premiere at Andromedik’s main event, “Andromedik Invites,” at Antwerp Expo in late 2024, the tune combines soaring vocals, synth growls, and powerful melodies to create a high-octane anthem. It captures the vitality of that remarkable night. Already commanding attention with its contagious enthusiasm and epic atmosphere, “Air” will rule playlists all around.
If “Air” is any guide, Andromedik’s greatest year yet seems to be 2025. Fans should be ready for many surprises and spectacular events as he intends to release even more music and keep enthralling audiences with his high-energy concerts.
Watch for more interesting news as Andromedik confirms his status as among Drum & Bass’s most powerful performers. This is only the start!

The post Andromedik Kicks Off 2025 with ​His Brand-New Single ‘Air’ appeared first on The Groove Cartel.
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