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Six wildfires are currently blazing across Los Angeles County and at least 11 people have reportedly died, with officials warning the death toll is likely to rise. Over 40,000 acres have burned and more than 12,300 structures destroyed, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
The Palisades Fire, the largest and most devastating blaze of the cluster, is now "one of the most destructive natural disasters in the history of Los Angeles," according to Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley.
Many prominent DJs, record labels and event organizers have launched fundraising campaigns and limited-edition merchandise to galvanize fans into action, with 100% of proceeds going to wildfire relief funds. Read on to discover and donate.
deadmau5
deadmau5 teamed up with BlackCraft for a limited-edition t-shirt, all proceeds of which will go directly to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation.
You can purchase the t-shirt here.
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FISHER
Chloe Fisher, the wife of house music superstar FISHER, launched a GoFundMe campaign "to personally ensure that donations are directed toward helping those affected by these devastating fires and supporting LA’s recovery." She will be donating to GoFundMe.org as well as various organizations dedicated to rescuing pets and wildlife.
You can donate to the fundraiser here.
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Chris Lake
House music superstar Chris Lake is donating 100% of the proceeds collected from merchandise of his record label, Black Book, to relief efforts until January 16th.
You can purchase Black Book Records merchandise here.
Chris Lake/Instagram
Cloonee
Tech house producer Cloonee and his record label, Hellbent Records, launched a merchandise fundraiser in which 100% of profits will benefit one fire department (California Fire Foundation), one humane charity (LAFD Foundation) and one animal shelter (Pasadena Humane).
You can purchase the merch here.
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Subtronics and LEVEL UP
Dubstep stars Subtronics and LEVEL UP launched a limited-edition t-shirt featuring an image of their dog, Ellie, and will donate 100% of the proceeds to Greater Good Charities: Disaster Relief for People and Pets Impacted by the Wildfires in Southern California.
You can purchase the "Ellie Tee" here.
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ALLEYCVT
Raising funds for pets and wildlife displaced by the wildfires, bass music producer and singer-songwriter ALLEYCVT launched a new merch line, "Tree Huggers." 100% of the proceeds from her t-shirt will be donated to Pasadena Humane.
You can purchase ALLEYCVT's merch here.
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Ranger Trucco
DJ and house music producer Ranger Trucco is donating 100% of his merch proceeds to LAFD Foundation, the official nonprofit partner of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
You can purchase Trucco's hat and hoodie here.
Ranger Trucco/Instagram
Snakehips
Dance music duo Snakehips released one of their earliest tracks, "On & On," which had been previously unavailable online, exclusively on Bandcamp for one week. They are donating 100% of the proceeds to Red Cross Los Angeles, Pasadena Humane and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation.
You can purchase the track here.
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Goshfather
Goshfather teamed up with a handful of Bay Area promoters and event organizers to host "House Heals," a benefit concert at The Midway SF. Scheduled for Sunday from 2-8pm, the fundraiser will donate 100% of proceeds to Pasadena Humane and the California Fire Foundation.
You can purchase tickets to "House Heals" here.
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The Recording Academy and MusiCares
The Recording Academy and MusiCares pledged $1 million to aid music professionals impacted by the wildfires. The organizations also launched the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort, which will "provide both immediate relief and long-term support to individuals and families in the music industry facing displacement and loss due to the disaster."
The Recording Academy and MusiCares are offering $1,500 in financial assistance and a $500 grocery credit. They are urging those impacted to contact them by email ([email protected]) or phone (1-800-687-4227).
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Breakaway Festival
The organizers of Breakaway, the nation's largest traveling music festival, will donate a portion of ticket sales of their upcoming Dallas edition to support wildfire relief efforts. Afrojack, Zedd, SLANDER, Louis The Child and Gryffin are set to headline the fest April 4-5.
You can purchase tickets to Breakaway Festival Dallas here.
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Space Yacht
Space Yacht, a beloved local organizer of electronic music events, postponed their event on January 11th event to Saturday, January 25th. They're now planning on launching a donation booth at the rescheduled event to benefit the California Fire Foundation.
You can purchase tickets to Space Yacht's upcoming "Rooftop Rave" in DTLA here.
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Emo Nite
Emo Nite Gives a F*ck, the philanthropic arm of the beloved event brand Emo Nite announced it will support local fundraising efforts by donating a portion of ticket sales to organizations providing essential aid and resources to those impacted by the wildfires.
You can purchase tickets to Emo Nite's events here.
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The LA Raver and Rave Haven
The LA Raver and Rave Haven launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund, a charity founded in 1906 to help the families of firefighters injured or killed in the line of duty or facing other crisis.
You can donate to their fundraiser here.
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Sound Nightclub
Sound Nightclub, a cornerstone of Los Angeles' electronic music scene, announced a flexible refund policy for all January events in response to the ongoing wildfire crisis affecting the city.
Located in the heart of Hollywood, the venue will remain operational but offered ticket-holders the option to receive full refunds without requiring justification, implementing a straightforward refund process by requiring only basic ticketing information via email.
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Ministry of Sound has played host to just about all of the biggest names in electronic music over the years and is renowned for having an incredible sound system with bass powerful enough to knock you off your feet. With all the different generations of DJs and ravers that have stepped foot into the club there’s plenty of tales to be told and the book will include those tales from the people who have lived them. The book also promises to include exclusive photos and rare memorabilia to offer an in depth look into the past for those who didn’t get to see it and those that can’t remember it through the fog of thumping kicks over the years.
Having developed such an astonishing legacy it will be interesting to have access to see the things that have made the Ministry of Sound what it is today.
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Once their smash-hit track “Buscando Money” became immensely popular, the pair is once more using their strong chemistry to produce funky beats flavored with real Latin taste. “Pegado” floats ever-forward on its lazy rhythm section as if the drums were the motor of a sumptuous sailboat floating over a gorgeous tropical sea loaded with warm bottom vibrations. A shimmering guitar gives that little piece of aural embellishment as Kryss offers clear vocals that bounce with the subdued swing of his native Spanish tongue.
Designed to keep listeners hooked from the first beat, TWENTY SIX touches on part of the magic that powers his latest collab:
Still riding high off of their earlier this year’s “Buscando Money,” the platinum-certified Latin house hit that broke into the Billboard Hot 100 charts, and became a worldwide fixture with top positions in Argentina, Spain, and Italy. Having accumulated more than 142 million plays thus far, the viral impact of the release inspired Chris Lake, Insomniac Records regular HUGEL’s remix treatment as well as a sought-after vocal appearance from the venerable Sean Paul.
While DJing all around Europe and South America, the Italian rising artist TWENTY SIX was creating waves with top-notch tracks on reputable labels like Nervous Records and Teamwrk before to his breakout year 2024. Years in his own right, the vocals and fluid approach of Cuba’s own Tayson Kryss have been much sought after. Working with other outstanding musicians like BADDIES ONLY and LiL CaKe, he has put his trademark touch on reggae and trap as much as house music.
Together TWENTY SIX and Tayson Kryss have a really worldwide sound. Not only do they come from some of the most vibrantly culturally alive nations on Earth, but they created “Pegado” during trips around Milan, Madrid, and Ibiza, therefore giving this new song unquestionable worldwide appeal.
All platforms have TWENTY SIX and Tayson Kryss’ new track “Pegado” available from Insomniac Records.
The post TWENTY SIX and Tayson Kryss Reconnect on “Pegado” appeared first on The Groove Cartel.
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Having dominated festival major stages for years as part of Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, the Belgian musician has spent recent years developing a more complex sound character. Trading spectacular drops for hypnotic grooves and delicate evolution, this latest CD strengthens his dedication to deeper, more nuanced electronic music.
Let It Burn demonstrates this polished approach brilliantly. Warm basslines pulse beneath crystalline percussion in the complex tapestry of deep, melodic house components that the cooperation creates. While Afnan Prince’s vocals have an ethereal, timeless quality that enhances the production above conventional dancefloor fare, Human Rias lends his unique attention to textural detail.
The way the song is arranged shows amazing restraint—a far cry from the high-energy maximalism of Like Mike’s past work. Rather than spectacular peaks and drops, we discover a mature production that breaths and develops naturally, creating suspense through small changes and well-placed parts.
This release marks not simply a fresh song but also a continuance of Like Mike’s artistic reinventions. His current work, notably “Let It Burn,” draws listeners into more personal aural environments while his earlier work attracted large festival audiences. From main room anthems to underground rhythms, this change emphasizes an artist not hesitating to question his and his audience’s assumptions.
The post Like Mike Continues Underground Evolution with “Let It Burn” appeared first on The Groove Cartel.
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Over 38,000 acres have burned and more than 12,300 structures destroyed, with the death toll climbing to 11 as of Saturday, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The lattermost figure is expected to climb, officials said, as the wildfires remain largely uncontained.
Firefighters battling the catastrophic Palisades Fire in Los Angeles.California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
As the blazes continue to wreak havoc, displacing tens of thousands of residents, the Recording Academy and MusiCares are taking immediate action to provide relief. The crisis has wiped out venues, recording studios, equipment repositories and other critical essentials vital to the livelihoods of musicians and industry professionals.
Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. expressed deep concern for the music community in a statement.
"The entire GRAMMY family is shocked and deeply saddened by the situation that is unfolding in Los Angeles," Mason Jr. said. "The music community is being so severely impacted, but we will come together as an industry to support one another. Our organizations exist to serve music people because music is a powerful force for good in the world, and we hope the broader industry will now rally to this cause."
MusiCares has a long history of organizing critical disaster relief efforts, including providing assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Hawaii wildfire outbreak of 2023. Eligible applicants aid include not only musicians, but also producers, event crew members, agents and other professionals across the industry's ecosystem.
The Recording Academy and MusiCares have launched a joint donation page to amplify support for those in need. Residents affected by the wildfires can access a variety of resources, including emergency shelter locations provided by the Red Cross and transportation vouchers from Uber and Lyft for evacuees.
For more information on how to contribute to the ongoing relief efforts or to apply for assistance, visit the MusiCares website.
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The new track opens with arpeggios that dance like meteoric showers, cascading across a cosmic soundscape while a haunting bassline pulses with a gravitational force of its own. As "Jupiter" unfolds, luminous leads pierce through like solar flares, illuminating the intricate layers of deadmau5's meditative production.
Fans of the influential producer first glimpsed its early foundations during one of his signature livestreams back in 2017.
Unveiled on deadmau5's own mau5trap imprint as his first release of 2025, "Jupiter" serves as an introduction to a year already teeming with numerous high-profile live appearances.
That includes his highly anticipated return to X Games Aspen and a performance at Miami's iconic Ultra Music Festival, where fans will also witness his stunning "retro5pective" live show. The production celebrates 25 years of deadmau5's unparalleled influence in electronic music.
You can listen to "Jupiter" below and find the new track on streaming services here.
Follow deadmau5:
X: x.com/deadmau5
Instagram: instagram.com/deadmau5
TikTok: tiktok.com/@deadmau5
Facebook: facebook.com/deadmau5
Spotify: spoti.fi/3otTHVp
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You can find the below tracks on EDM.com's Fresh Picks Playlist. Follow to stay up-to-date and submit tracks for consideration here.
EDM.com Fresh Picks
Charli xcx, A.G. Cook - So I featuring a.g. cook
Oklou - family and friends
FKA twigs, Koreless - Drums of Death
Vegyn- Debold
Jaxon Wild - XTRA
Jake Penn - No Sleep
Janus - Trials
MarMar, dg. - take me somewhere
Kacy Hill - Juliet
Jabeau - FIRE
Ramadi - Just Take Me Home
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The acclaimed producer, singer-songwriter and audio engineer stuns with his latest release, a dazzling flex of genre-melding mastery that propels you through moments of both chaos and clarity. In "Surface," he artfully balances intensity with emotional depth to create a proper mind-bender that manages to be both a dance banger and a masterclass in dynamic contrast.
Out now via Hegemon Select, the track kicks off with eerie, atmospheric layers that feel like the calm before a storm. Then, boom—you're sucker-punched by a drum & bass drop so fierce it could crack concrete. It's raw, relentless and designed to make your pulse race like the electric touch of a stranger-turned-soulmate on the dancefloor.
But just when you think you've got KDrew figured out, he pulls the rug out from under your dancing feet. The second drop dives into a half-time groove, trading breakneck intensity for a crystalline dreamscape of shimmering textures and delicate, fluttering arpeggios.
Listen to "Surface" below and find the new single on streaming platforms here.
Follow KDrew:
Website: kdrewmusic.com
Instagram: instagram.com/Kdrewmusic
X: x.com/kdrewmusic
Facebook: facebook.com/kdrewmusic
YouTube: youtube.com/kdrewmusic
Spotify: spoti.fi/3z0GVm4
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Directed by and starring Spike Jonze who would go on to direct some massive productions including ‘Jackass: The Movie’, ‘Where The Wild Things Are’ and ‘Her’, the video follows a group dancing at various locations in West Hollywood. The video was made on a budget of only $800 and filmed on handheld cameras which helped making it seem like nothing important was being recorded as they had no filming permits. With no permit and the areas where they filmed being out in public, the crowds and reactions from them are all genuine.
Initially the video was rejected by MTV as they said that it looked low quality, however it went onto win the award for Breakthrough Video, Best Direction, and Best Choreography at the MTV Video Music Awards. ‘Praise You’ went to number 1 in the UK and in 2001 the video was voted number 1 of the 100 best music videos of all time in a poll to mark the 20th anniversary of MTV. The video defied its critics to become what is considered one of the most iconic music videos of all time that it is still captivating people 27 years after its release.
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This partnership is the result of a year-long path of mutual invention and shared successes, not a haphazard gathering of ideas. Starting the year strong with their chart-topping Beatport genre #1 smash, “Dance To The Music,” Low Steppa and Tony Romera proved their ability to combine infectious enthusiasm with rhythmic subtlety. Tony and Crusy simultaneously debuted “The Unknown,” a very moving song that connected with listeners and underlined their mutual love of stretching the boundaries of House music. Low Steppa and Crusy performed “Bullerengue,” a summer hymn issued under the venerable Defected Records, praised for its irresistible rhythm and sun-soaked mood.
Their combined efforts produce a fantastic piece of chunky House music that offers everything listeners could want. The basis is big, authoritative drums; a killer bassline offers an enticing and unrelenting beat. Diva-style vocals, a trademark of classic House that imbues the track with soul and character, layered on top of these components. Designed for the dance floor, the vibrant track promises to wreak major damage anywhere it is performed.
The record is out now via Toolroom.
The post Tony Romera, Crusy and Low Steppa team up for banging house single appeared first on The Groove Cartel.
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In 2021 the first season of ‘Squid Game’ was hugely popular, but no one expected when Zedd took to the stage at EDC Las Vegas that he would find a way to incorporate this trend into his set. To the surprise of everyone the theme for ‘Squid Game’played to open up Zedd’s set which was then perfectly moulded into ACRAZE’s breakthrough track ‘Do It To It’ sending the crowd wild. This insane creativity from Zedd to bring together two huge trends in such an amazing way made for one of his greatest on-stage moments.
Reinier Zonneveld, HI-LO vs Billie Eilish, Khalid – Flying Octopus vs Lovely (Oliver Heldens Mashup)
Oliver Heldens has always been one of the best at creating unforgettable mashups that always make his sets stand out. Though not his most complicated mashup, Heldens’ inventiveness to bring together these two tracks which couldn’t be more different from each other to produce this masterpiece is astonishing. The vocals from Billie Eilish and Khalid feel like they were made for this song with how well they fit in thanks to Heldens’ excellent production skills.
Avicii & David Guetta vs Florence & The Machine – Sunshine vs Spectrum (Avicii Mashup)
‘Spectrum’ is a track that has been in many amazing mashups with one of the best and most memorable coming from Avicii at Tomorrowland in 2012. His Grammy nominated collaboration with David Guetta paired with the unforgettable vocals of Florence Welch were a match made in heaven. Avicii performing a historic mashup in front of a packed-out Tomorrowland crowd to the backdrop of fireworks in the night sky is a moment no one will forget.
Martin Garrix vs Martin Garrix – Scared To Be Lonely vs Limitless (Martin Garrix Mashup)
In recent years fake out drops have become a much more prevalent element in electronic music and one of the best uses of it has to be on the first drop of Martin Garrix’s ‘Limitless.’ Using the wonderful vocals of Dua Lipa from ‘Scared To Be Lonely’ he managed to take the track to another level sending crowds wild around the globe. The mesh of one of his most powerful instrumentals with the vocals from one of his biggest tracks was an inspired creation.
Swedish House Mafia vs Avicii – Don’t You Worry Child vs Wake Me Up (Axwell & Ingrosso Mashup)
Tomorrowland has served up some amazing moments over years and one that’s hard to forget came back in 2018 with Axwell & Ingrosso closing day 2 of the festival with a mashup of ‘Don’t You Worry Child’ and ‘Wake Me Up.’ Two titans of electronic music bringing together two of its greatest ever songs at the biggest festival in the world is a monumental combination. There are few vocals that would be accepted to replace those of ‘Don’t You Worry Child’ in a mashup so Avicii’s iconic ‘Wake Me Up’ was a great choice that fit the track perfectly.
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Right away, the song declared itself as something different from Anyma’s normal output. His unique sound design is still the same, but here the technique is more polished, more approachable, but no less powerful. Possibly the most physically interesting component of any Anyma track to date, the bassline is a technical wonder of audio engineering that rumbles with surgical instrument accuracy. This is the kind of bass that commands your attention rather than asking gently.
Goulding’s involvement takes the track above simple club music bounds. Her digitally altered face displayed across the huge LED surface of the stadium at the debut produced a moment of group bewilderment that aptly fit the track’s themes of losing oneself in another.
“Hypnotized” is especially intriguing because it avoids sacrificing its roots while also separating itself from conventional techno. The song seems more like an evolution than a departure; as though Anyma has discovered a means to transfer the raw intensity of underground electronic music into a language mainstream listeners can grasp. While packaging it in a more approachable style, the records keeps the exacting attention to detail that subterranean enthusiasts demand.
This goes beyond simply an underground producer “selling out” to mainstream music. Rather, it shows how electronic music might develop outside of genre boundaries. Although the track’s arrangement may be more radio-friendly, the sound design and production quality remain absolutely superb. From the eerie pad work to the precisely tuned percussion, every component exhibits Anyma’s technical expertise.
One cannot stress the visual element of the track’s launch at The Sphere. Combining images with music produced a moment when the lines separating artist and audience, between real and digital, become beautifully hazy. Goulding’s digitally altered presence, hovering over the audience, gave songs normally simple in a conventional pop setting levels of significance.
What “Hypnotized” finally stands for is a strong argument about how electronic music may transcend its conventional limits. Anyma has produced something that seems both familiar and innovative by embracing pop forms while preserving underground production quality.
The post “Hypnotized” is Anyma’s Bold Leap into Pop Territory with Ellie Goulding appeared first on The Groove Cartel.
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The most recent work from Deneubourg, “Oblivion,” shows how deftly the German producer understands modern melodic techno. Inspired by Anyma‘s creative sound design and own unique character, the song creates a complex tapestry of mesmerizing sounds and deftly constructed progression.
With its purposefully slow pace from the beginning, “Oblivion” creates a meditative environment. The basis of the production is a mysterious baseline that both acts as an emotional storyteller and rhythmic anchor. This quiet but strong component blends perfectly with ethereal synth melodies to create a sonic environment feeling both ancient and futuristic.
Particularly noteworthy is the architectural framework of the track. Deneubourg shows amazing discipline in letting the composition breathe and change naturally instead of racing to climax points. This painstaking approach to layout reflects the finest features of the melodic techno genre, in which tension and release are deliberately controlled to enhance emotional impact.
The track’s story pivots on a turning point when artificial vocals enter during the break. These processed vocal pieces are not only cosmetic accents but also a vital link between the track’s more forceful later half and its meditative opening. Here, the vocal processing methods used highlight Deneubourg’s technical ability while preserving the ethereal aspect of the piece.
When the fall does come, it strikes impact via contrast instead of force. This part’s “heavy but slow” character captures the producer’s subtle attitude to energy control. Deneubourg chooses a more complex solution that preserves the hypnotic core of the music while adding fresh levels of intensity instead of depending on traditional high-energy drops.
Perfect production value and attention to detail define “Oblivion” in the indie music scene. From the spatial treatment of the synth melodies to the subdued baseline modulation over the track’s length, every component in the mix has been meticulously examined and placed with intention. Strong artistic vision and technological mastery help “Oblivion” transcend simple genre practice into the domain of actual creative expression.
The post Deneubourg presents first 2025 single “Oblivion” appeared first on The Groove Cartel.
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BPM Festival Costa Rica 2025 was canceled after its first two days due to multiple factors: strong opposition from local residents (183 community members signed a petition against it), concerns about public safety following incidents at the 2024 edition, questions about proper permits, and what organizers describe as broader resistance to electronic music events in Costa Rica. The festival had already faced challenges when it was forced to relocate from Guanacaste to Tamarindo just days before the event. After early closures on January 8 and multiple canceled events on January 9, organizers announced the complete cancellation of all remaining festival dates, with refund information to be provided on January 15.
Months before the event, 183 Playa Avellana locals signed official documentation denouncing the festival’s presence in their neighborhood. Their serious worries centered on things like noise pollution, transportation congestion, possible crime rises, and environmental damage. Supported by nearby Development Associations and tourism companies, the homeowners were especially concerned about their community’s inadequate infrastructure and absence of police presence to manage such a big event.
Recent events of the festival in Costa Rica have been surrounded by controversy. Tamarindo officials first turned down hosting the 2025 edition after allegations of riots, street brawls, and death in surrounding Los Jobos surfaced during the 2024 edition. These events along with claims of stolen cars caused great conflict between the festival planners and local police.
The 2025 version ran across right away operational difficulties. There were issues over their liquor license and surveillance plan approval even if the organizers claimed to have all the permissions well in advance. The festival had already suffered a significant blow when it had to return from its intended “jungle-like” location in Guanacaste back to Tamarindo just days prior.
The first two festival days were marred with disturbances. All evening events on Wednesday, January 8, were called off early. Three more events had been shelved by Thursday. By Friday morning, the organizers declared the cancellation of all remaining events, albeit first reassuring guests they had permission to proceed following emergency meetings with local officials.
In their statement, the organizers of BPM highlighted more general problems influencing Costa Rican electronic music events. They cited comparable difficulties experienced by other festivals, including Envision Festival, which called off its 2025 run following an unfortunate occurrence involving an attendee. The planners said, “There are forces at play in Costa Rica that appear determined for us and for other electronic events to discontinue or fail.”
BPM Festival has seen major setbacks before this as well. Originally beginning in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico in 2008, the festival was forced to move to Portugal following a horrific shooting incident in 2017 that left several casualties. Costa Rica became its new residence following the epidemic, but the current state of affairs calls into doubt its future in that nation.
Prominent house and techno musicians such Jan Blomqvist, Francesca Lombardo, Manda Moor, and Malóne were among the outstanding lineup planned for the 2025 edition. For information on refunds, guests will now have to wait until January 15, nevertheless.
This postponement seems to fit a bigger trend influencing Costa Rican international electronic music events, casting doubt on the future of such celebrations in the nation.
The post What happened to BPM Festival Costa Rica and why it has been canceled? appeared first on The Groove Cartel.
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We love all things emotional over here. And so we were compelled to hear wunderkind musician Orsay‘s first release of the year. After a successful 2024 which proved he’s one of the acts to look out for in the future of Afro House, He’s teamed up with the acclaimed Maxi Meraki for “Amado”, to release a sentimental tribute to Orsay’s late father, releasing on Adriatique’s Siamese imprint.
Having been tested on the road not only by their authors but also giants such as RÜFÜS DU SOL, WhoMadeWho, Adriatique, Carlita, and many others, the collaboration gears up to become an early anthem for spring and summer festivals around the world, empirically proven.
‘Amado’
The single is a testament to true love, legacy, and the everlasting impact of those who once marked our paths. “‘Amado’ — ‘loved ones’ in English — is dedicated to the ones who are not here anymore, yet are still so close to our hearts”, says Orsay, who built the backbone of the single with his late father in mind. He recalls, “This track is very special to me because I made it a few months after my father passed away. The original vocal on it was a voice message that he left me and that I used as inspiration to create all the melodies and feelings in the track”.
Powerful both in energy on the surface, as well as its message lying underneath, ‘Amado’ pairs warm and nostalgic piano lines with groovy instrumentation and analogue synths, creating a genre-bender which marries Melodic Techno and Afro House for the ultimate sonic combo. Its hybrid state allows for the piece to be the ideal soundtrack to connect people on a number of dance floors — from the golden sunset lovers enjoying a dancing session by the beach, to the late-night, eyes-closed clubbers chasing highs.
Listen to Orsay and Maxi Meraki‘s heartfelt ‘Amado’, by hitting the ‘Play‘ button on the Spotify player below. Also, click here to support the release on your platform of choice. Be sure to follow our page to stay up to date on the latest news and views regarding our beloved Dance music industry.
The post Orsay And Maxi Meraki Pay Homage To His Late Father On Latest Collaboration ‘Amado’ appeared first on EDMTunes.
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The Berlin-based artist later shared his thoughts on Instagram, posting a story that, among other things, said, “I know going crazy and also doing drugs is fun and shit – I’ve been there, done that. But I think to create a safer space on the dancefloor, there’s like a few things that need to exist, and one of them is also quite safe use of drugs and to watch out for each other.”
“I don’t know… Maybe it’s time to educate yourself on how much you can do, what these drugs do to you, or like, what you can do when a friend goes bad or something” he continued, explaining that he has witnessed countless people, especially younger attendees, passing out in the crowd during his performances.
Hoffstadt’s candid statement underscores a persistent issue in the world of electronic music events: drug-related incidents and the lack of education around safe substance use. The intersection of drug culture and music festivals has been a global concern for years, with incidents ranging from overdoses to fatalities. In 2024 alone, reports of drug-related emergencies surged, reigniting discussions about harm reduction measures and the responsibilities of organizers, artists, and attendees alike.
By choosing to pause his set and address the issue on Instagram, Hoffstadt not only brought much-needed attention to the problem but also raised important questions about the role of artists in fostering safer environments. While DJs and performers are primarily there to entertain, moments like these highlight their influence beyond the decks. Hoffstadt demonstrated integrity and responsibility, sending a clear message: rave, music event, and festival culture should prioritize connection and collective care over reckless excess.
Similarly, festival organizers play a crucial role in mitigating risks. Initiatives like on-site drug testing, chill-out zones, and educational campaigns have long been staples at events such as Boom Festival in Portugal, Shambhala Music Festival in Canada, or most big festivals in the Netherlands where leading event organizers have implemented these measures for years. These proactive approaches have consistently proven effective in saving lives.
Let’s face it – whether someone supports or opposes drug use at festivals, it’s a reality that isn’t going away, no matter how many restrictions are imposed by law enforcement or event organizers. While rules around bringing and using drugs at festivals aim to control the situation, they often fall short when it comes to reducing harm. People determined to use substances will always find a way, making harm reduction strategies all the more essential.
The philosophy of harm reduction focuses on minimizing the negative effects of drug use without necessarily condoning it. Organizations like DanceSafe and The Loop have been at the forefront of this movement, providing resources such as drug-checking services and workshops on recognizing and responding to overdoses.
For attendees, understanding the risks associated with using various substances – especially when purchased from unknown sources – is crucial. For instance, mixing stimulants like MDMA with alcohol or other substances can lead to dehydration, overheating, or even heart failure. Drugs like ketamine require precise dosing to avoid “k-holes,” and an incorrect dose of any substance can result in severe, irreversible consequences for both body and mind. Simple steps, like staying hydrated, taking breaks, and looking out for one another, can significantly enhance safety and create a more secure experience for everyone.
Shifting rave culture requires a collective effort – not just from artists and organizers, but also from attendees who must take responsibility for their actions, look out for their friends, and extend a hand to strangers who may need help. For many, raves, music events, and festivals represent the kind of world that feels like the way the “real” world should be but often isn’t. It’s everyone’s responsibility to keep it that way.
Because let’s be honest – what we all truly want, at the end of the day, is to leave the festival grounds with sadness in our hearts only because an incredible time filled with amazing music, people, and experiences has come to an end. Not with sadness over how chasing a high ruined the experience for ourselves and others. Mistakes can however happen to the best of us, and when they do, it’s vital that the right people and procedures are in place to prevent them from becoming tragedies.
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Dallas will host the traveling festival April 4-5 within the ground of Fair Park. The city is the first of five new locations for the barnstorming Breakaway Festival brand, with Atlanta, Huntsville, Philadelphia and Phoenix to follow later in 2025.
15 national touring acts and four local DJs have been confirmed for the first-ever Breakaway Dallas fest. Headliners Afrojack, Zedd, SLANDER, Louis The Child and Gryffin will be joined by Eliminate, EVAN GIIA, TroyBoi, Zomboy and EDM.com Class of 2022 star ACRAZE, among others.
The announcement arrives in the wake of a breakout for Breakaway, which was named 2024's best event organizer in EDM.com's list of the year's top industry leaders.
"It's exciting to see such diverse programming make its way to Fair Park," said Adam Bazaldua, Deputy Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Dallas. "Events like this showcase the intentional efforts Fair Park is making to become a true hub for culture, music, and entertainment. I can’t wait to see our community come together to enjoy this amazing experience."
Tickets for Breakaway Dallas are on sale now. Check out the full lineup below.
Breakaway Music Festival
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Good news to all of you seeking a bit of warmth in these colder months: German electronic artist AVAION and Kenyan songstress Sofiya Nzau have released their anticipated new single, ‘Wacuka‘, via Sony Music. Two acts of their calibre couldn’t work together without getting noticed. In other words, this song delivers.
And even though ‘Wacuka’ has just been released a few hours ago, chances are, you’ve heard it elsewhere in the past. This, because, during its ID stages, the record got passed around like crazy, even getting to the hands of acts like &ME and Calvin Harris. Its energy is infectious, and for it, it has garnered widespread acclaim over the past months.
‘Wacuka’
AVAION and Sofiya’s work is a standout piece both in instrumental composition and lyrical weight. It first strikes you as the different warm textures and atmospheres set the stage, and they already have a different presence than your standard track. And then comes Sofiya Nzau and her — by now — instantly recognisable delivery.
In her own words, the lyrics tell a story of “finding freedom whilst honouring one’s roots“. Compelled to explore the confirmative dynamic of young African girls face in particular, Nzau explains: “Wacuka is about the tension between choosing to follow tradition and expressing individuality. It’s a feeling that resonates with many, but I wanted to capture both the struggle and the hope in the lyrics“.
Listen to AVAION and Sofiya Nzau‘s brand-new ‘Wacuka’, by hitting the ‘Play‘ button on the Spotify player below. Also, click here to support the release on your platform of choice. Be sure to follow our page to stay up to date on the latest news and views regarding our beloved Dance music industry.
The post AVAION And Sofiya Nzau Join Forces For ‘Wacuka’ appeared first on EDMTunes.
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The dubstep star, whose masterful track "Power" was recently highlighted as one of EDM.com's best songs of 2024, is letting fans know that she's not letting up anytime soon. Featuring four tracks, Sapphire Souls showcases her signature neck-cramping style.
LEVEL UP pulls no punches in tracks like "Dark Side" and "Alive," which are loaded with strategically placed vocal samples, vowel bass and growls for days. A splash of hard techno even makes its way into the EP through "Awaken," a blustering collaboration with Vastive.
The EP comes amidst a busy touring schedule, in which LEVEL UP is booked until late April with various headlining gigs and festival performances. Upcoming shows include dates at Chicago's Concord Music Hall, Detroit's Majestic Theatre and Pittsburgh's Enclave, among many others.
Listen to Sapphire Souls below and find the new EP on streaming platforms here.
Follow LEVEL UP:
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Facebook: facebook.com/LEVELUPDUB/
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Hi, it’s Erik from our duo EXEA.
I’ll go a little classical on this one and say the most important gear I own is my upright piano. To be exact, I own a Furstein Silent Piano. “Silent” meaning it has a headphone jack output, which enables me to practice without annoying my neighbours too much on weekends.
I’ve been using it for around five years now, and I’m very happy with it. The keys are quite heavy, which is amazing for practice (to get those fingers nice and strong), and it has a wonderfully warm low end. By layering a thin scarf in front of the hammers, I can kind of turn it into a felt piano sound for more… well, “feeling,” I guess.
Apart from just piano sounds, I’ve also created some shaker and percussion sounds from it by softly plucking the strings.
Of course, I do add some processing to the piano after recording to make it fit better into electronic music—warping, reversing, octave pitching, etc. Still, for me, it stands apart from just another synth or pad sound, even after the effects. It just gives the track a bit more human character, if you know what I mean.
As an example: in our newest single Do It Right, I introduce the piano two bars before the hook comes in. From there on, it basically continues throughout the song with different processing (especially in the last hook—code word: Trance Gate).
More and more producers are starting to incorporate acoustic instruments into their music, which I personally think adds another facet to drum and bass music.
I know you don’t necessarily need to know how to play an instrument to make drum and bass. In fact, a lot of the music I love was made by producers who typed in the music or used a “Midi AI Generator 2000”. After years of music training though (specifically Jazz), the act of drawing notes is just tedious to me. I prefer the keys.
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Browse Nora En Pure’s 2025 tour dates here and stream “Protected,” featuring Richard Walters, below.
Featured image: Jon Correal
The post Nora En Pure rings in 2025 with Richard Walters-assisted ‘Protected’ appeared first on Dancing Astronaut.
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Arriving two years after his Pressure Gamut album, the project confirms that the Massachusetts-born producer is back to captivate fans with his boundary-pushing sound. Technical precision and raw emotion effortlessly collide throughout the EP.
"The EP artwork is a reimagining of what my current studio looks like, surrounded by gear, screens and speakers, and blasting off into space with cool sounds. My creative mindset was the same as it always has been: Does this feel new and fresh to me? Does this feel like a step forward in my production journey? If both those answers are yes, then it’s usually something I can feel proud of showing the world."
The artwork of Jade Cicada's "Lunar Fade" EP.Dave Arcade
Every track on Lunar Fade feels like a sonic journey through a dense forest, where glitchy textures collide with magical, organic sound design. The adventure begins with the titular track, in which cascading synths set the tone and evoke a stroll through enchanting woodlands.
Next, "Goober Time" transports us to an alternative universe where the wilderness transforms into an alien-like atmosphere via shards of otherworldly bass. "Froggy Style" then returns us to Earth with bouncy, swamp-inspired growls that emulate the chirps of forest frogs. The track captures the chaotic harmony of nature, a theme that becomes more evident the deeper we dive into Cicada's soundscapes.
Lunar Fade concludes with "Frame Shift," a shimmering, atmospheric track that beams with analog warmth. Its wavy, melodic qualities feel like the euphoric end of a hike through the deep woods, with rays of sunlight practically carved into the song's arrangement.
"["Frame Shift"] was heavily inspired by beat scene type music of the early 2010s," Cicada explained. "Sunclef's 2011 tune 'Droski' is definitely the biggest influence in the direction of ‘Frame Shift.' I've been wanting to make music in that style but with a heavier bass/dance production to it for a long time and a goal of mine is to make more melodically and harmonically driven boom-bappy bangers like this one."
Cicada is now set to embark on his "Break the Hold" tour starting January 17th, with stops in Austin, Detroit, Portland and more. Support includes EPROM, Resonant Language, Cool Customer and more, along with visuals by Tenorless and Laia. Tickets are available here.
Listen to Lunar Fade below and find the new EP on streaming services here.
Follow Jade Cicada:
Instagram: instagram.com/jadecicada.mp3
Facebook: facebook.com/JadeCicadaa
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Spotify: bit.ly/429qTbw
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