EDC, commonly known as Electric Daisy Carnival, is one of the best and biggest electronic dance and music festivals in the world that takes place annually in Las Vegas. It is the largest electronic music festival held outside of Europe, and is popular as American lbiza since 2010.
Basic info on EDC
EDC became 2-day event in 2009 and a 3 day event in Las Vegas that drew 230,000 people in 2011. The event drew more than 400,000 people over 3 days in 2015. Organizers of EDC Vegas promised to reduce the wait so they open the doors 2 hours early for Wonderland 2008.
Electric Daisy Carnival is one of the biggest events to take place in Las Vegas. To attend thisEDCVegas event, people come from all over the world in exciting rave costumes, which often times have ecsquisite lighting.There’s always a huge variety of male and female rave costumes and outfits that thrillseekers embellish themselves with each year!
Enthusiasts wait for Electric Daisy Carnival anxiously and almost throng the space in the funky and colorful guys rave clothes. More than being an event, it is a festival that thousands of merrymakers from varied nations all across the globe celebrate at the same place. They dance to the tunes of rock and pop songs played with fabulous mixing. Computers and high tech gadgets further add essence to the occasion with power packed music mixing. Moreover, popular disk jockeys also take part in this Electric Daisy Carnival in rave costumes.
Lively music
Some vivid forms of music that do rounds in this party include:
·
Electric Daisy Carnival has given electronic musicians the ability to mix elaborate and complicated music.It is like heaven for ardent music lovers and funky fashion freaks.The combination of rave costumes and thumping music takes the ravers and enthusiasts to a new level of highs, one might even say out of this world high!
]]>Raves are broad events that take place in the dark of the night. It is quite difficult for one to become of the center of the attraction of these parties. To grab the attention at the party, people sport unique fashion, accessories, dance moves, and more. Some of the unique accessories that people wear at raves are Cyber Goth gas mask, Steampunk goggles, etc. Some even choose to wear LED gloves, ties, knee bands, and headbands to get a mesmerizing look for EDM and raves.
In the same line, if you are looking to buy light up ties to add to your rave and occasional wardrobe, here are a few tips that you can follow –
Learn the types, parts, and quality of the tie – If you want to buy ties like an expert, you need to act like an expert. You should try to learn different types and parts of ties in detail. It will help you understand the quality of the tie that you are going to buy.
Touch and check the feel of the fabric of tie – It aids you to pick the tie of lush material.
(For raves, lining and feel of the tie does not really matter, but still these are one of the most important factors to keep in mind when looking to buy ties for your party wear selection.)
LED Ties – The first thing that you need to check is the battery and color of LEDs. Make certain if the seller is providing the batteries with the accessory, or if you should pick some extras up. Be sure to affirm the quality of LEDs used in the tie.
]]>Large flower headbands can be a beautiful option to beautify your look at raves, parties and festive occasions. You can buy floral crown headbands from your nearby fashionista, or even from an online store that promises to deliver flower bands to you. You should also pick headbands of faux flowers; they do not require much attention and maintenance.
If you are making your own large flower headband, here are a few points that you need to pay attention to –
Advantages of using fake flowers – You should use flowers with vibrant colors. It will give an ultimate floral decoration to your head. Additionally, you can also use some artificial scent with those flowers to add scent to your appearance. When buying artificial flowers, you should focus on buying good quality flowers.
Affix flowers facing outwards – This makes your crown worth attention catching. And it is most important if you want your flower headband to be beautiful.
Don’t forget to add ribbon – To give an added appeal to your crown, you could use a stylish, vivacious, shiny ribbon.
When choosing flowers, you should use colors that match with the dress and its design and prints. It will give you a more attractive look at the party.
]]>Hoodies are a type of sweatshirt, usually worn during cold weather. However, the trend of wearing hoodies for parties like raves and EDM, has risen to a significant degree these days. For raves and casual night parties, these sweaters can make a real difference. When it comes to comfort and coziness, hoodies can be a cool option that keeps you cool at hot, steamy raves. For raves, hoodies come in many options, as light up hoodies that leave no stone unturned in grabbing the attention of your fellow ravers. And, if using fiber optic whips while wearing LED hood jackets, you can be sure that you will be making an overwhelming lure with your dance moves.
Hoodies are typically full-sleeved sweaters, with an added or attached hood for covering your head. Some hoodies can be like a jacket with detachable hood. There are a few things that need to be taken care of when looking to buy light up hoodies –
Style – Hoodies are present in a variety of styles, two of the most popular are pullover and zippered. It totally depends on your choice which style you want, but in my opinion, zip-up hoodies are always a great comfort.
Material – These fashion garments are usually available in cotton blend and fleece materials. You need to choose the fabric as per the weather condition. For cool weather, fleece and synthetic materials; and for warm weather conditions, cotton is considered ideal.
Size – The size of hoodies should be chosen according to your height and weight. Knowing your clothing size as far as Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large is important to finding the right hoodie for you.
]]>Steampunk fashion is a kind of classic fashion that depicts a classic style, mention of which can be found in the fictions of Victorian era. Costumes of fortunetellers of previous century, large goggled inventors, gas masks belonging to the phase of world war, and many similar wear and gear belong to the fashion trend called steampunk.
If you are heading to a festival in coming days/weeks, and considering adorning yourself the steampunk way and buy rave goggles, hats, and outfits, here are a few tips that help you on that –
Search the web – There are many sources online where you can learn more about steampunk fashion. You can also find retro dresses, and other accessories like mask and steampunk goggles UK online. Though steampunk seems like, it belongs to a classic, fictional era, but in the modern times too, it is changing at a fast pace. With a twist of present generation, the steampunk fashion, which was originally found in classic literature, has changed quite significantly.
Do it yourself – You can, alternatively, check out and learn from YouTube tutorials how to make steampunk outfits, masks and goggles. If you are good at sewing, and have a creative mindset, you can take ideas from thousands of designs available on the internet. However, it all is going to consume a decent amount of your time, so it would be better to buy your requirements from a local or online store.
Find vintage – When looking to buy steampunk outfits and accessories, you should try finding items that have a vintage appeal. If it has a vintage look, it will be ideal for rave and Halloween.
]]>The concept of buying wholesale sunglasses is becoming quite popular these days. Notably, you need to take guard of certain factors while shopping for such accessories.Considerations like UV protection, anti-fogging, and wide vents are all a must. However, within these categories you get a profusion of choices, thanks to advancements in technology. Interestingly, you can opt for a wide range of light up goggles from both the cyberpunk and steampunk theme.
Light up goggles
Among all the popular eye wear, light up goggles are by far the best in the world, mainly due to their awesome appearance. These custom designed light up goggles come as a wearable accessory that will sit nicely atop your head or adorn your outfit. They look good on your head, especially when you aspire to leave a deep impact in a lively rave party.
Steampunk goggles
Abiding by the lexicon, steampunk is a genre of science fictions that include the combination of aesthetic designs and technology of the steam powered machinery that existed in the 19th century. The steampunk goggles UK, hence act as profound reminiscent of those times and give you a cool look inyour rave parties.
Cyberpunk goggles
Just opposite to the steampunk goggles UK, cyberpunk goggles resemble the futuristic hitech era. The goggles get the inspiration from the advanced designs and future technology. When you buy colorful cyberpunk goggles from a reputed store, chances are higher that you become everyone’s favorite in the next rave party.
]]>The combination of cool themes, costumes and the music, are more than enough to set the tone of a memorable rave party. But wait! Are you wearing something trendy for the event? If not, then why don’t you check out some cool costume accessories like fiber optic whips, fur leg warmers, light up gas masks, fuzzy animal hats, and more.
Fiber optic whips
The fiber optic technology has gone through some massive evolutions. It remained the exclusive wonder of the laser labs and scientists for a long time. However, today it’s used all around us, from children's toys to fiber optic pool lights, and fiber optic whips!
Fur leg warmers
These outfit accessories are ultimate for teaming up with jeans, particularly if you have a colorful sweater that matches or complements the color of your leg warmers. Smart ankle boots with neat heels complete the look, giving you a stylish appearance.Fur leg warmers are a multipurpose addition to any woman's wardrobe that you can wear all year long.
Light up gas mask
The light up gas mask raises the magnificence of your Cyberpunk, Steampunk or Gothic rave wear collection. These respirators make for an awesome costume accessory that help you set the mood for your next rave party.
Fuzzy animal hats
Be stylish and trendy with our Fuzzy animal hats. Wear them inside or out, and they will keep you warm when you need it most. These will provide you with the stylish headgear you’ve always wanted to go with your garb. Made with stylish long pyle faux fur, these super soft animal hats will give you the vogue to your outfit.
]]>Big and tall rave hoodies are a popular choice of clothing among the fashion conscious people. You can easily pair them with your favorite jeans, sneakers, or wear them on top of an equally comfortable tee shirt. Besides sweaters, rave goggles and LED masks are among the best seller wearable accessories that people wear in the happening raves, dances, and festivals. Here is a quick insight to these outfits.
Rave hoodies
Rave hoodies are perfect for people who seek more ease in wearing their big and tall hoodies. It is even game for those who are least interested in redoing their hairstyle after putting much effort on it.When it comes to showing your distinctive style in rave parties, el wire rave hoodies are simply the best.
Rave goggles
Rave goggles are not like normal goggles in the sense that they have to be fashionable and wearable. This includes being comfortable as well as looking superb. Rave parties of the modern times witness a rich ensemble of rave goggles. Even you can have some awesome goggles for any occasion.
LED gas masks
LED gas masks or respirators are among the foremost of effective gadgets that act as costume accessories, props, or fashion statements. The use of these trendy masks is widespread in rave parties as well. People prefer wearing colorful LED masks that give them a unique appearance in such vivacious events.
]]>
For zealous men who keep fashion on point but are tired of looking for variation within limited choices, light up attire like ties, leg warmers and goggles suit you amicably. The recent trends in the fashion world depict this phenomenon in a most striking manner.
Light up ties
The long and resplendent light up ties are the most stylish ties a male could wear in almost any occasion. These uniquely designed attire are available for grab by fashion enthusiasts in a range of colors, patterns and styles.
Light up leg warmers
Traditioinally, dancers used to wear these warmers to maintain stability and thermoregulation during long rehearsals. However, with the popularization of dance movies like Fame, Footloose and Flashdance, these outfits are now the latest fashion trend. Ever since the 1980's, light up leg warmers keep on making their appearance in into the closets of men as well as women. Today, there are light up leg warmers even for kids, which stands as a testimony of their continued relevance.
Light up goggles
While thinking of light up goggles, you may start to think of video games or action movies, but in reality these goggles are now a fashion statement that stand on their own. They often find their religious use during steampunk parties and festivals such as burning man, or as complimentary stage props or haloween costume outfit accessories. These goggles look great at night and have super bright LED’s that flash and blink to make your outfit stand out.
Ladies often flaunt vivid styles and designs of clothing in rave parties. However, amid the selection of the most voguish dressing, it is important to ensure that the clothes are comfortable and fit enough for wearing. Here is a brief description on the comfy and cozy fury leg warmers that are a hit among the rave lovers like you.
Embracing furry leg warmers
To look pretty yet appealing, you can wear warm costumes that glow under lights and simultaneously protect you from the cold of winter. Dresses like flurry leg warmer suit the best in this regard and perhaps act as an ideal choice to don in the high voltage rave parties.The decision on what kind of colors should you choose for flurry leg warmer, however depends on your individual preference.
Most party enthusiasts go with black, since it is the most natural color and looks great with any outfit. Notably, black furry leg warmers make special appearance in the markets during the winter season, thanks to their chic appeal and the warming capabilities. These rave outfitsnot only look good, but also make you appear cute and attractive.
Multifarious advantages
Moving over, you often come across arguments that contemplate on the pros and cos of wearing furry leg warmers. In fact, black furry leg warmers:
Hence, they are an ideal winter wear and are among the most preferable rave clothes for women. However, make sure to buy these clothing from a reputed vendor to get all these benefits to the hilt.
]]>The best and most convenient way to get your kid excited about the long winter months is stocking up on a variety clothes. Exclusive winterwears such as Fluffy Leg Warmers, rave Halloween costumes, white furry leg warmers are worth mentioning in this regard. This clothing owns a distinctive style, and are available in an array of designs, colors, shades and patterns.
Fluffly leg warmers
These winter wear are bold but incredibly cute trend to leave you or your kids with adorable looks. These are Fux Fur leg warmers, which resemble real fur, can cover your snow boots,and add great fashion to your winter apparel. If you feel like your kid can carry this off with the attitude of a seasoned style, then these leg warmers are a must have for you or your kids!
Halloween costume ideas for fraternity parties
Earlier, people used to dress up in spooky and Rave Halloween Costumes that gave the impression of ghosts and monsters. Now, it’s more about celebrating Halloween with costumes from the contemporary cartoons, movies, etc.In case, you are looking for fun ideas for Halloween costumes, funky and coolrave Halloween costumes form the ideal choice.
White furry rave leg warmers
One of the ways you can reflect your personality in a rave party is by wearing cool and comfortable clothing. Interestingly, party mongers take this dressing sense more seriously with a new trend of clothing, which includes white furry rave leg warmers. This new and stylish rave party wear is in hot demand among the rave party aficionados.
]]>Steampunk accessories are a perfect choice when you want to create an individualized fashion style that enthralls just the right kind of attention. The manufacturers created popular wearables like goggles, elaborate timepieces, brass fittings and more specifically to complement well with the latest clothing styles.
The latest of these steam punk accessories include DIY steampunk goggles. It displays a seamless combination of Victorian 'steam engine' innovations and maintains a look, reminiscent of modern 'punk' fashions. In places where a steam punk aesthetic is the need of the hour, these DIY Steampunk goggles suit the occasion the best way. These goggles have flip up lenses for bright or dark viewing, and you can casually hang them around your neck. You may also strip them so that they sit on the top of your head.
Bright and funky Rave Clothes
Rave clothes are in instant necessity to attend a rave party, since they match the environment often found in such parties. You can find a variety of rave clothing available in the market such as UV Reactive shirts. Designed with 3D technology, these sophisticated shirts glow in the dark, leaving the wearers to reflect an attractive and stylish appearance.
More tidbits on rave outfits
The trendy rave outfits are loose, lightweight, and comfortable. These clothes are perfect to bring fashion and music together in sync with each other. Beyond doubts, rave outfits are among the most tasteful and perfect clothes in the contemporary fashion market. Their availability is widespread in both the online as well as offline shops; all you need is to choose the right vendor.
]]>Finding a cool rave outfit and gear could be (though it is not) simple to some extent, but buying the one that fits you perfectly, and compliments your look and confidence is surely not effortless task. If your dress does not fit you, especially when you are at a rave party, where there are so many people around making you uncomfortable, things might turn embarrassing sometimes.
If the dress you are going to choose is too loose, it will not highlight your body, just the way you want it to; and if it will be too tight, you will not feel comfortable in it; and both will lower the confidence level of the fun loving creature inside you.
Here are a few tips that you can follow to augment your appeal at the party –
Summer is the favorite season of many. For a number of people, it brings several conveniences, one of which is ease in dress selection for everyday and special purposes. In routine life, choosing dress is not a real confusion, but when it comes to choosing attractive congruous attire for rave, it surely is. In particular, if it is a rave party, it could be a difficult stunt.
The below snippets suggest how you can choose comfortable dresses for rave parties –
Consider your comfort – One of the most important steps, when selecting dresses for summer wild parties, is to skip the dresses made from synthetic materials. They can create rashes on your skin. Additionally, you should choose dresses that are loose enough and enhance your comfort level while dancing. It would be better to pick the dresses that have been cut and sewed from natural fiber. Loose dresses will be more comfortable when dancing during the party. If it’s a beachside or poolside rave party, and if you do not want to sport swimwear, you can consider investing in sexy hippie costumes. It could be a suitable and comfortable choice.
Keeping it light – Apart from being loose, being lightweight and breathable for your dress is also of high significance. It is a great technique to avoid the heat. Whichever dress you choose, it should be lightweight, so that you can dance freely and have the utmost fun.
Contrast – Your appeal at a party largely depends on the contrast of what you are wearing. You should pick the color of the dress as per the schedule of the party. For instance: fishnet arm warmers or large flower headband could be ideal for a daytime party, but LED goggles.
]]>For the ladies who prefer the more flowery aspect of the steampunk genre, you can find some interesting items in the Large Flower Headband category. Suitably chic and elegant while adding the right element to your tutus or sexy Halloween costumes; these can be a special enhancement when you are changing your look for the night or want to grace the festival with a more lady like appearance.
There are tons of colors and styles available that can make a great addition to your wardrobe. Even when you are not partying this is the ideal accessory that can be worn on any occasion.
Complete the Costume with the Right Additions
Beautiful though they may be, you could turn up the heat when you pair your attire with a black colored large flower headband. It could take up the oomph factor of your Goth costume or the sexy Halloween costume you are wearing.
The quality of the material used is guaranteed and so is the affect it may generate. Pair this beauty up with rainbow colored fluffies and head gear and you could be making a permanent mark on the party scene.
Choose from a variety of different accessories including large flower headbands for your next summer music festival from Rave Nation and enjoy the long list of compliments you are going to receive.
]]>Typically movies are a genre that has always welcomed larger than life costumes and accessories including goggles and face masks. They add the necessary element to the scenario being filmed depending on the scene.
So it should come as no surprise that these can make a stylish addition to your wardrobe when you are trying on different styles for the next party or EDM music festival you are attending. Of course there are various ways in which you can dress up and team whatever outfit you are wearing with the right accessories.
In fact many revelers love to create their own unique styles when it comes to a particular piece; which is why DIY Steampunk Goggles can provide some pretty great ideas on the subject. You can add features, replace elements and even put in some funky accessories according to your own creativity
DIY your Costume
Your costume is a very personal choice. Maybe you want to team up your outfit with the best of accessories that go fashionably well with the rest of your attire.
Are you wondering if your accessories can be customized to the dress you will be wearing? The answer is a resounding yes. Many of the product websites offer spectacular components that can help create an eye-catching arrangement.
You get everything you need from one impressive website and your very own DIY Steampunk Goggles can be readied to be worn proudly.
]]>How can you make the perfect rave outfit without the accompanying rave accessories? An EDM Festival is simply incomplete without these exciting additions and fortunately for festees there is a whole world of rave clothing and accessory stores like Rave Nation that supply a variety of different styles and designs.
The best advantage of shopping at a store like this is that it is a venture of fellow revelerswhich means they would know exactly what is needed for any particular EDM party scene. An outdoor party cannot be complete without the requisite lightsabers, rave hoodies or sexy Halloween costumes. More than that it is the necessity of being free of encumbering clothing that lets you have the fun you were waiting to have for days.
Light up ties are a perfect complement to LED goggles or the rave hoodie. There are a number of such accessories or clothing that can be mixed and matched to refine your look. If there is a theme to the party like any other, you do have the options available to shop and perfect your look. For the upcoming Burning man festival, Rave Nation has some exciting costume components up for grabs. Their tutu collection and metallic rompers are a great addition to the current theme which celebrates all things magical.
Capes and LED hoodies will aid your avatar helping you blend into the atmosphere of mind readers and fortune tellers. You will see your excitement mirrored in fellow revelers who meet you during this festival.
]]>The original rave party may have begun in the early 60’s but the rave party scene is still very much alive and kicking even today; which is the reason why stores like the Rave Nation still carry everything a self-respecting raver might need. Rave outfits that would typically take days to find, can be easily and affordably chosen from this quintessential online store.
Rave nation which is an enterprise started by the original ravers themselves is the reason you find clothing match your expectations perfectly. They offer a combination of sexy and unique which is exactly what you would want. You want lightsabers, LED goggles, gas masks or tutus you will find these and many more in a rainbow range of colors and styles.
Therave scene is a carefully cultivated community atmosphere with members that come together to celebrate their freedom; where no one can tell them what to wear, how to dance or how to behave. You get to dance the night away without any stress or worry. That is the kind of atmosphere that EDM events want to encourage. To aid this culture, it is important to dress comfortably knowing full well that you will be grooving the whole night away. The rave attire is loose and baggy, short like bikini or completed with a simple hoodie. It allows freedom of movement and an abandon which is intensified when you are dancing the whole night.
The energy comes from theatmosphere and the fellow revelers who contribute to the force thatpulsates all around you.
]]>
Yet another banger from the young Dutch producer. Rising to fame from his track Animals, Garrix has become a main stage presence in every music festival around the world. Virus is the collaborated track with Dutch DJ/producer MOTi, who is signed with Garrix, to Tiësto’s Musical Freedom record label.
Releasing many tracks through Spinnin Records, Bassjackers have produced anthem after anthem, and have worked their way to the main stage. Marlon Flohr and Ralph van Hilst comprise the DJ alias, and earned their place because of Fedde Le Grand’s talent recognition prowess.
Dada Life continues to produce epic dance tracks, and this is no exception. Their unique sound parallels their two-of-a-kind personalities (along with their banana suits). After only a week of the record’s release, Freaks Have More Fun definitely earns a spot in the top ten.
I have personally waited for the release of this track for quite some time now. I heard the preview which was released by Spinnin Records, and was immediately hooked. Ozcan’s sound is similar to R3hab’s, who is also one of my favorite producers, and SuperWave is a hyper-amplified banger that does not disappoint. It will keep you bouncin’ all through this cold winter.
Quickly recognized by the mainstream media outlets, David Guetta’s Dangerous resonated from our headphones extremely quickly. There have been many remixes released from the stems of this track, but Robin Schulz’s rendition is ranked as one of the best, thus far. There is a trance-like quality to the remix, and generates a slightly different feel to the track. It definitely deserves the shout out on Beatport’s Top Ten.
This Robosonic Remix creates a more progressive feel to the Eddie Amador original house track. It is a fast paced shuffler that has really interesting organ synths. There is still plenty of the original track that is recognizable, which I commend in any remix that is worth discussing.
Don’t even get me started on the incredible talent we are experiencing with Oliver Heldens. At nineteen years of age, the House Music producer has collaborated with Mr. Belt & Wezol to create an unbelievable, Pokémon-sampled modern shuffler. Following hugely popular tracks: Gecko; This; and Feelin’ Good, Heldens has illustrated a true talent in the music production scene.
Firebeatz has re-introduced Rune RK’s Calabria Loop from a little more than six years ago. Rune RK’s 2008 DJ tool was the quintessential party-starter in the rise of electronic dance music in the United States. Firebeatz has transformed the original electro-house regular into the signature sounds heard time, and time again, from the Dutch DJ/producer duo.
The collaborated remix of Mason’s original record consists of sounds and build-ups heard often from progressive house tracks. UMEK has become a (literal) house name in the electronic music scene, while Mike Vale is still on the up-and-coming wave of House Music crossing into the West.
It seems that not a month goes by without seeing R3hab’s name somewhere in Beatport’s Top Ten. Whether it is a remix, original track, or collaboration, the progressive-house producer continues to create amazing records for our listening/dancing pleasures. Calvin Harris is a king in his own right, and it speaks to the talent of fellow collaborator, R3hab, that Harris found similarities between the two seemingly-different sound waves. Calvin Harris’ newest album is full of big-room bangers, and supplemented by vocals from some of the best vocalists in the scene, today. This record definitely deserves its continued number-one spot in Beatport’s Top Ten.
]]>
1. Which Rave Accessory was banned for Diplo's Mad Decent Block Party?
A. Fluffies
B. LEDs
C. Kandi
D. Nippies
2. Who is considered the troll-est troll in The Scene?
A. Skrillex
B. 3LAU
C. Kaskade
D. Deadmau5
3. Which day of Electric Zoo's 3-day festival is now considered 'Cursed?'
A. Sunday
B. Friday
C. Saturday
4. Which DJ/Producer(s) perform under the alias: Jack Ü?
A. Afrojack/Steve Aoki
B. Martin Garrix/Hardwell
C. Diplo/Skrillex
D. Nicky Romero/Madeon
5. In which city does TomorrowWorld call home?
A. Boom
B. Pittsburgh
C. Los Angeles
D. Chattahoochee Hills
6. Which Professional DJ Multiplayer has become the industry standard?
A. CDJ-350
B. CDJ-2000
C. CDJ-900
D. CDJ-850
7. Which DJ/Producer has recently announced to indefinitely suspend their live performances?
A. Deadmau5
B. Laidback Luke
C. Tiësto
D. Avicii
8. Select the First Names that are known as Above & Beyond.
A. Tony
B. Jono
C. Nikolai
D. Paavo
9. What is the most up-and-coming performance art alongside DJing?
A. VJing
B. BJing
C. PJing
D. GJing
10. Which DJ/Producer(s) does NOT wear a mask/helmet during their sets?
A. Daft Punk
B. Cazzette
C. Deadmau5
D. Carl Cox
Rave Clothing - Match The Memory
]]>
10. Eye I Eye—Claude VonStroke
The Tech House genius that is—Claude VonStroke—released this track nearly one month ago, but has taken listeners this long to appreciate its rage-ness. Claude VonStroke, an alias to Barclay Crenshaw, made a name for himself with his interesting Tech House tracks such as: “The Clapping Track,” “Can’t Wait,” and “Turbosteppa;” and his dirtybird Record Label, as well.
9. Tear The Roof Up—Alesso
The Swedish producer has created some fantastic music over the last few years. Alesso’s newest track, released on Refune Records, is certain to climb even higher on the charts. His use of synth-strings and an auto-tuned voiceover work perfectly together to create pure magic.
8. Love Taking Over—Dusky
Produced from the London Duo—Alfie Granger-Howell and Nick Harriman—this Deep House shuffling banger has that smooth sound which takes over the dance floor. Although Dusky are trained in orchestral music production, they have transitioned from a more formal style of music into the modern Deep House which has popularized the two. Other productions from Dusky that have become increasingly successful include: “Careless,” “Mr. Man,” Nobody Else,” and “Esperanto Juggler.”
7. Stay (Henry Krinkle)—Justin Martin Remix
Producing tracks alongside record-label-buddy Claude VonStroke, Justin Martin’s House music has been played in clubs and festivals for quite some time now. Martin entered the electronic music scene with his first production “Sad Piano,” on the Buzzin’ Fly Record Label. He has received many accolades from Pete Tong, who has earned notoriety in his own right. Nearly every production from Martin has been released under VonStroke’s dirtybird Records, further illustrating his involvement with the Label’s development and success in House Music Production.
6. A Sky Full Of Stars (Coldplay)—Hardwell Remix
We can thank Tiësto for starting the trend of remixing brilliant productions from Coldplay’s newest album: Ghost Stories. Where other DJs continue to carry on the trend, only few can separate themselves from the pack. The movement began with Tiësto’s remix of “Midnight,” continued by uncountable followers; only to be revived by Hardwell’s contribution of his remix for “A Sky Full Of Stars.” Their creative prowess is displayed in the amount of original sound that remains in the remix. There is much to be experienced in their change of tempo, added sounds in the drop, and a catchy kick often found in progressive/electro-house tracks.
5. ANYTIME—Don Diablo
Diablo’s newest track perfectly explains what time it is, “House is anytime, and anytime is House.” The vocals are filtered differently throughout the track to switch up the vibes, and provide the upbeat shuffling ingredients to fill any dance club or rave. Diablo’s previous bangers have been released under Spinnin’ Records’ SPRS Label, and have proved to make a successful business team for the House Genius. His last successful productions, “Knight Time,” and “Black Mask,” are still being played all around the world by the world’s best DJs.
4. Everybody Be Somebody (Ruffneck)—Lucas & Steve Remix
Yet another House track on this week’s Beatport Top Ten, Lucas & Steve have remixed Ruffneck’s production in result of a progressive style House banger. While Ruffneck is relatively new to the Production Scene, Lucas & Steve—also known as Lucas de Wert and Steven Jansen—have produced several successful tracks over the last decade. The Dutch duo are responsible for the techno flare from their latest collaboration, which created the unique sounds of the Real Time Records release. With vocals from Yavahn, there was no doubt in this track breaching the top 5 of Beatport’s list.
3. C.U.B.A—Calvin Harris
Adam Wiles (AKA Calvin Harris) is no stranger to Beatport’s Top Ten; serving up big-room beats with a flare of Pop, he has yet again proved masterful artistry of dance music production. Nominated for several Grammys (and winning Best Short Form Music Video in 2013), Harris’ latest releases have been immediate chart-toppers on both Beatport and iTunes. While “Summer” has reached radio’s airwaves with its upbeat and catchy lyrics, C.U.B.A pays homage to Harris’ roots in traditional, lyric-less, electro-house.
2. How We Party—R3hab & VINAI
If you have been following our Rave Articles, it is no secret that we absolutely admire R3hab’s productions. His newest collaboration with VINAI comes in perfect timing with TomorrowWorld and Electric Zoo quickly approaching. Every headlining Producer/DJ has their unique sound with which gained them fame and notoriety; R3hab and VINAI’s sounds sync perfectly together for the end-of-summer banger we have been waiting for. Stay posted as we may be in store for others as wel!
1. Koala—Oliver Heldens
The House Master is at it again with his newest track. Released earlier this month, “Koala,” has climbed the charts to this week’s number one spot. Oliver Heldens does it again with his progressive style House, which has caught the ears of the westernized music aficionados. There will be plenty more from Heldens as we impatiently wait for it.
]]>The Electronic Dance Music Scene has grown accustomed to appreciating young talent, of whom contribute greatly and masterfully to The Scene. After all, what would it say about our Culture if we were to exclude DJs/Producers merely because they would not normally be allowed to enter the venue unless they are spinning? We would be missing out on some of the best tracks and festival sets from the likes of: Madeon, Martin Garrix, Nicky Romero, Hardwell, and Porter Robinson. Furthermore, for a culture in which its members are stereotyped as ‘methed-out drug-zombies,’ there are not many examples of the aforementioned musicians having a ‘reckless’ time in the public eye—unlike the paralleled child-stars of the film industry: Lindsay Lohan, Macaulay Culkin, Amanda Bynes, Gary Coleman, and many others who matured in world-class f***-ups. Let’s not forget about the adolescent products of pop: Brittney Spears, Miley Cyrus, and Justin Bieber (as painful it is to even write). Perhaps the MTV can forgive excessive twerking from a ‘role-model’ performer, but DJs within the Electronic Music Community have not quite earned equivalent ignorance from its critics.
In our current decade, we have been privileged to shuffle with deep house debonair—Frankie Knuckles, rage with the Progressive Prince—Eric Prydz, and drop it low with the madly decent—Diplo. As these pioneers of Electronic Dance Music have defined the musical genre, we welcome the young artists in hopes of evolving an already expansive list of incredible producers. This week, at last, Porter Robinson released his full Worlds album to the public. His twelve track composition is “The best music I’ve ever made,” quoted by the artist. We are now used to seeing DJs bombard social media with their self-promotion and hilarious antics to increase notoriety. While this has become the new standard for fame, it can be safely said that Porter Robinson’s album promotion has been one of the classiest and creative campaigns of the last decade. Perhaps the release of a full album, relatively new for EDM, has allowed for Robinson to define a new standard of perfection in his musical artistry of electronic music.
DJ/Producers such as Hardwell, Romero, and Garrix, are known for their big-room bangers that make your heart beat faster; Robinson’s Worlds is an alternative approach to understanding an emotional journey—through music. There is much respect for Robinson, given his deliberate angst for the direction of Electronic Dance Music. Though, the defining characteristic which sets his apart from others is his actions speaking louder than his words. Rather than continuing to produce music favored by wealthy ragers, Porter Robinson created an album of which completely represents himself. He intends to bring his listeners on an emotional journey: from sunset to sunrise, thinking in the car, or for ultimate self-reflection. This isn’t an album full of tracks to ‘roll’ on, nor does it consist of ‘festival bangers’ that will be played by every DJ at TomorrowWorld. Personally, I am more than alright with that. These twelve tracks are productions that need to be held with the utmost respect and admiration, rather than being amongst a controversial pre-recorded set from a headlining DJ.
As Porter Robinson opened pre-orders for his Worlds album, he provided listeners with several options to continually enjoy his art. We were given options of purchasing his album on CD, and also on vintage-style vinyl, for those who own a record player/turntable. While I did not own either prior to ordering Worlds, there was something about this album that I felt needed to be remembered on vinyl. Coincidentally, around the same time as the August 12th release date was revealed, Pioneer released photos of their new turntable—PLX-1000 (At the time, I didn’t know that it would be priced at $699). While I didn’t yet buy the newest Pioneer must-have, I was right about the magnificence of listening to this album on true vinyl. Until I was able to purchase the player, it was as if Porter Robinson was inside my mind, and provided digital copies of his entire album alongside his two, double-sided vinyl records.
When “Sea of Voices” was released as the first single of his Worlds album, it became clear of Robinson’s brilliant artistic talents. When “Sad Machine” proceeded, the level of anticipation and anxiety rose to levels comparable to the intimate moments of love and loss. Next was “Lionhearted,” which only further illustrated the greatly anticipated August full-album release. Lastly, as the final single released prior to the full twelve-track album, “Flicker” was a summer anthem so different to the market standard, I am certain album sales increased drastically following the release. In his choice of four singles leading to Worlds, there was a little bit of everything to expect from the remaining nine tracks: there was some uplifting beats, reflective melodies, and unique computerized vocals, which set Robinson apart from his fellow producers. Don’t expect this album to become over-hyped. It is not possible. Worlds has earned every right to fill up our news feeds and timelines. If you don’t believe me, check it out for yourself!
Perhaps the most obvious update circulating the Dance Music Scene relates to a multi-weekend, Tomorrowland recap; or Porter Robinson’s newest single released from his upcoming Worlds album, “Flicker” (don’t worry, full-length article to be found Aug. 14). In hopes of bringing you the most current headlines from around The Scene, we detail the latest Coffee Run of Deadmau5 and Toronto Mayor—Rob Ford.
It is not an ordinary week unless there’s talk of a new Deadmau5 Twitter troll, or any controversial statement quoted from the Canadian DJ/Producer. In hilarious, (yet, seemingly ironic) respect to his dedicated social media followers, Zimmerman welcomed hometown Mayor—Rob Ford—as he squeezed into the notorious Ferrari for Thursday’s Coffee Run. Prior to their ‘meeting of the minds’ of philosophical and political discourse, fellow Mau5 trolls were given a teaser as to the newest guest in a twit-pic from the Master Troll, himself. Frequently spotted in direction of a Tim Hortons drive-through, the Controversial Canadian entertains loyal fans in his popular web series—which acts as dashboard confessional in a high-speed excursion throughout the streets of Toronto—with Zimmerman as driver, and in-town DJ friend(s) as passenger.
If the name sounds familiar, yet you can’t quite place your finger as to the reason, Mayor Rob Ford made international headlines in admission of smoking a ‘little’ crack (though, no big deal; he was drunk). Released on his YouTube Channel, after what we can only assume required contracts detailing topics of which to avoid, Deadmau5’ Mayoral Carpool began in Toronto’s City Hall Parking Lot. Concealed alike true party-professionals, it was unclear whether this Coffee Run could also be categorized as an authentic, Canadian Burn Run. Either way, we learned a great deal of Canadian trivia from their caffeinated cruise.
First, and most unimportantly, Canadian Football teams are comprised of equal halves: American (Import) and Canadian (Non-Import) players (thank you Doug Flutie for somewhat-legitimizing American Football’s bastardized homage). Secondly, in Canada’s tri-level system of government, Mayor Ford is responsible for: sidewalks, traffic lights, roads, parks, trees, garbage, and “Pretty much everything you can visually see.” Furthermore, amidst several near-accidents with Zimmerman behind the wheel, Ford jokes that, if driving, he’d be “Toast in one of these;” yet, they should go to his cottage to ‘open-up’ the engine.
Not being a coffee-drinker, there was a Starbucks-esque level of hilarious absurdity in the coffee order from the two celebrities: for Mau5—an extra-large double-double, and for Mayor Rob ‘Partylord’ Ford—five shots of expresso, in one cup. One of the funniest dialogues of the drive appeared as Ford explicitly calls attention to paying for his own order, “I can’t have anyone pay, they’ll freakin’ kill me.” Although not as authoritarian as the NCAA, it was nice to see the Toronto taxpayers’ loonies and toonies not used for a crack-hit equivalent of the Mayor’s daily caffeine intake.
Prior to publication of Mayor Ford’s drug-and-alcohol-dependency struggles, his notoriety was of no affect for us in The States. However, if any positivity can be recognized from his ignominious misfortune, it would be in his humanizing characteristics scarcely exposed by the majority of Elected Officials. Granted, many of us would prefer our Representatives to have not smoked crack while in Office, media spotlight (and specifically this Coffee Run) has shown many incredible features the Mayor of Toronto brings to his city. Most shockingly, Ford willingly advertises his home phone number on magnets, for constituents to contact him with any problems or concerns (I know my mayor doesn’t hand that out!). Additionally, the Mayor returns every phone call personally, even “Returning calls ‘till midnight, if that’s what it takes.”
I enjoyed watching the Mayor become so passionate when discussing the controversial issues of texting while driving. Followed by subtle PSAs, Ford lightened the topic in discussion of eating while driving—an unconventional amendment (potentially) that is “A big problem.” Joking aside, the Mayor divulges that he “Likes getting rid of the rules,” generating an uninhibited freedom and trust for his constituents. As the 30-minute Coffee Run neared its close, we learned a little more about the Toronto Mayor, in his love for racing boats, salmon fishing (not in the Yemen), and the game of Risk; also, his hatred for golf.
In the petal-flooring conclusion of the webisode’s final minute, Mau5 and Ford laugh as they accelerate back into the garage—coffees in hand. In all honesty, I admire Mayor Ford for his willingness to indulge Deadmau5, and his fans, with a Coffee Run; moreover, lowering his political guard in display of a comfortably candid, easygoing personality—rarely seen from our politicians. I believe Ford administrates with his constituents’ best interests at heart, and deserves a deeper respect than the newly-acquired label as the ‘crack-smoking mayor.’ Illustrated through his political successes, Ford’s private-life indiscretions are a result of increased scrutiny; and when you look relentlessly enough, faults can be found in even those perceived most righteous. While Zimmerman’s critiques of the Electronic Dance Music Scene continue, and Rob Ford remains in Toronto’s Mayoral Office, we recommend one thing: buckle up, and enjoy the high-speed ride around the pothole-riddled Toronto streets—en route to Tim Hortons.
**Apologetically, some of the above statements may construe negative connotations pertaining to Canada and its political representation; in fact, none was intended. I/We LOVE Canada. Here in the United States, we would be lacking as a Dance Music Nation without their bacon, beats, and good vibes, immersed throughout The Scene.
Watch the Coffee Run and see for yourself!
(And the festival isn't even over!)
Adam Wiles (AKA Calvin Harris) is no stranger to Beatport’s Top Ten; serving up big-room beats with a flare of Pop, he has yet again proved masterful artistry of dance music production. Nominated for several Grammys (and winning Best Short Form Music Video in 2013), Harris’ latest releases have been immediate chart-toppers on both Beatport and iTunes. While “Summer” has reached radio’s airwaves with its upbeat and catchy lyrics, C.U.B.A pays homage to Harris’ roots in traditional, lyric-less, electro-house.
9. Let Me Down—Tube & Berger Remix (Daniel Steinberg)
Released under the Defected Records label, German DJ duo—Arndt Roerig and Marco Vidovic—most known by their aliases, have made a name for themselves with their epic house productions and remixes over the last fifteen years. As House Music appreciation increases in the United States, producers that may have otherwise not been recognized are achieving great successes with their deep-house sounds. Perhaps, it was destined from the EDM Gods Themselves, that the German production duo would remix a track from their fellow countryman—Daniel Steinberg. While I personally favor Steinberg’s original version, Tube & Berger have produced an excellent remix of the German-rooted tech-house hit.
8. Waves—Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, W & W
‘People of Tomorrow,’ and those able to follow Tomorrowland’s live-stream last weekend, were first gifted this banger numerous times throughout the first weekend of the world-renowned music festival. While this track originally occupied Statuses and Tweets as a Double ID, Monday morning revealed “Waves” as not only produced from the faces of Tomorrowland/World—Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike—it was also appointed as the festival’s honorary anthem of 2014. The Brother-DJ-Duo from Greece has also been responsible for producing ID&T’s Tomorrowland/World Festival’s Anthem for the last four years: “Give Into The Night (Tomorrow),” “The Way We See The World,” “Tomorrow Changed Today,” “Find Tomorrow,” and this year’s “Waves.” Noted in last week’s Tomorrowland expectation article, the Thivaios Brothers utilize a system which has led to their incredible worldwide successes on the Main Stage. Let’s not forget about the collaborated efforts of W & W, whose eclectic sounds have been found quite often in Beatport’s Top Ten. Most recently, their remix of “Eparrei” (Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Diplo, Fatboy Slim, feat. Bonde Do Role & Pin) was released in conjunction with this year’s FIFA World Cup, instantaneously reaching the number one spot.
7. Won’t Look Back—Duke Dumont
This retro-inspired production from Dumont is composed of soulful house beats and deeply-rich lyrics, of which is responsible for his notoriety over the last eight years. Dumont won the Diesel U Music Award—presented to the Best New Producers—in 2006, after spending several years learning how to produce and perfect his unique sound.
6. Lovers On The Sun—David Guetta, feat. Sam Martin
Perhaps the newest designation into our summer road-trip soundtracks, or the perfect audio-illustrated anthem of Burning Man, Guetta has produced a music festival banger that is certain to reach mainstream radio stations around the world. The upbeat lyrics from Sam Martin elevated an Avicii-like track to heights of festival worthiness—destined to bring the rage all summer long (without killing the vibe i.e. “Hey Brother”).
5. Turn Around— Âme Remix (Sailor & I)
Released in their newest EP (sharing the same title) under Life and Death Records, Sailor & I’s deep-house track is the perfect inclusion for any size venue setlist. Additionally, its play has increased upon production of Âme’s remix earlier this year. This week’s Top Ten welcomes another DJ/Producer duo originating from Germany. Âme can be seen at this year’s Tomorrowland Festival on Friday’s We Play House Recordings Stage.
4. Arcadia—Hardwell, Joey Dale, feat. Luciana
Hardwell is no rookie of Beatport’s Top Ten, but it is nice to see his Revealed Recordings label responsible for the collaborated production with Joey Dale. As we have mentioned Hardwell’s immense artistry throughout numerous articles, this week, let us spotlight: Joey Dale. At only 21 years of age, Dale has collaborated with some of the best producers in the Scene, and has independently produced massive progressive-house bangers such as: “Watcha Called Me,” “Shockwave,” and “Cracked.”
3. Legends Come To Life—Blasterjaxx
We don’t often hear of ‘falling-outs’ between DJ duos in the Dance Music Scene, but Thom Jongkind’s Blasterjaxx would not be the headliner we have come to appreciate today until the addition of Idir Makhlaf in 2012. Their most recent chart-toppers: “Fifteen,” “Rocket,” “Mystica,” and “Echo,” will soon be joined by their July 30th release of “Vision.” Be sure to keep an eye out for the release, and to be heard throughout every festival this summer.
Ozcan made a name for himself in the Scene with his 2011 production, “Reboot,” which ‘set up shop’ in the Top Ten for nearly eight weeks. His collaborated track with R3hab—“Revolution”—and his own production of “Raise Your Hands,” have occupied every DJs set all around the world. As many of his productions have been released with Spinnin’ Records, Ummet Ozcan has established his position as a headlining DJ/Producer that can keep up with the best. Currently, he is developing unique synth software that will create an even more unique sound to establish his rising stardom.
1. A Sky Full Of Stars—Hardwell Remix (Coldplay)
We can thank Tiësto for starting the trend of remixing brilliant productions from Coldplay’s newest album: Ghost Stories. Where other DJs continue to carry on the trend, only few can separate themselves from the pack. The movement began with Tiësto’s remix of “Midnight,” continued by uncountable followers; only to be revived by Hardwell’s contribution of his remix for “A Sky Full Of Stars.” Their creative prowess is displayed in the amount of original sound that remains in the remix. There is much to be experienced in their change of tempo, added sounds in the drop, and a catchy kick often found in progressive/electro-house tracks.
]]>Jacksonville, FL. Rave Scene: Dropping it Low with Brillz, Borgore, and Ookay
Many of our largest cities, from Miami to Las Vegas, offer attractive clubs/venues that headline some of the most popular DJs in the Electronic Dance Music Scene. This week, I was requested to take a deeper look into Jacksonville, FL’s Rave Scene, and where they stand in appealing to Top 100 DJ showcases. Provided we cannot all live in New York or Los Angeles to rave every weekend, nor can most of us afford it (myself very much included), small-city ravers are in desperate need for venues. Living in Pittsburgh, PA., I have experienced a very similar scene to that of Jacksonville, albeit both large metropolitan cities.
Slightly more than 340 miles north of Miami, Jacksonville’s five hour drive to Florida’s primary dance music scene in Miami can become considerably tiresome—driving back-and-forth every weekend. So, the question has been raised, “What has Jacksonville’s Rave Scene evolved into?” After a little bit of research, there are roughly two venues that provide ravers with the experience, prevalently found in the southern, larger, Floridian cities. The first venue in our feature is—Pure. Provided that Jax is a Northern Florida College Town, Pure opens its doors for Wide Awake Wednesdays, Fridays, and Pure Saturdays—simultaneously offering VIP upgrades. Yesterday, June 11th, Pure Nightclub housed visiting dubstep DJ—Brillz. Brillz is a newly-emerging DJ that has produced tracks under incredible labels, including: OWSLA, Mad Decent, and Slow Roast Records. His dubstep/hip-hop influences are brought to the decks throughout his tour, even for his scheduled Paradiso Festival set in just a few weeks. Jax’s rave scene, although re-emerging, is granted with a fresh start with Brillz at Pure Nightclub. Although shying away from the traditional ravewear, trade in some of the bikinis and bro tanks for some flashy dress clothes and some LEDs for the Pure Nightclub experience.
Pure will also be housing Borgore in just a few weeks. The bringer of all that is ratchet, Borgore will drop the formalities (clothes), to highlight his love for baes and booty—during his July 3rd set. When we thought DJs in the likes of Steve Aoki and Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike were able to throw it down, Borgore has brought his middle-eastern flare to our U.S. ragers. His dirty EDC NY set was one of the most incredible from Memorial Day Weekend. Jacksonville’s Pure will need this next month to prepare for the dubstep/hardstyle dirt that Borgore will bring with him, and leave behind once all the baes and booty are fully turnt.
Following Pure Nightclub’s July 3rd Borgore set, Jax will get nasty once more with San Diego trap DJ—Ookay. Newly signed to Buygore (Borgore’s record label), Ookay has made a name for himself with his hardstyle remixes and collaborations with other headlining producers from around the globe. His most recent collaboration: “Bouncer” with Showtek, was a Beatport Top Ten for several consecutive weeks. His remixed tracks from Avicii, Steve Aoki, and DJ Funk, have made him a festival must-see for events such as Jax’s southern draw: Miami’s Ultra Music Festival, in addition to Maryland’s Moonrise Music Festival. Ookay is scheduled to perform on July 16th, and will definitely be bringing the dirty funkin’ beats. There will be plenty to see at Jacksonville’s Pure Nightclub this summer, and it will be up to the Rave-Nation to bring the rave.
The next featured venue for raves in Jacksonville, Fl., is—Freebird Live. Freebird Live has been serving up the most popular live performances over the last fifteen years, and shows no sign of slowing down. They have even evolved with our culture, as they feature some of the best headlining DJs throughout their U.S. tours. Next week, Freebird Live will house Terravita and J. Rabbit. The hardstyle drum and bass performers are some of the best in the genre. They melt the minds and faces of ravers around the country, and have seen the emergence of a new hardstyle presence within the Jax Rave Scene. Freebird Live is a perfect venue for a show such as this, given the two-story setting and multiple-bar showcase. A perfect hardstyle venue is also one who can provide equally magnificent lighting—and Freebird Live ensured nothing slight of top-of-the-line. While Freebird Live features a variety of genres and live performances, the fact they include the emerging electronic music genre is a feat in my book. While Pittsburgh, PA., has yet to see the prevalence of ravers in its Steel City, Jacksonville Florida is a step ahead in providing its citizens a proper rave.
While the rave scene is emerging in popular culture to levels unseen since the 80s, Jacksonville has shown interest in partaking in the festivities. After all, who can resist the music, LEDs, and the wide-eyed sexy ravers? Jax is just the right amount of far-away to need their own Scene, and these two clubs are the step in the right direction. Their seemingly heavy focus on dubstep/trap/hardstyle genres are the product of southern popularity with the EDM Culture. Be sure to check them out when you’re in the area, or if you live there—keep on raging hard!
If you would like your city featured in a future rave article, please send us an email at sales@rave-nation.com!
June 5th Beatport Top Ten
With festival season raging in high gear, there are tracks being played around the world that have earned their spot in Beatport’s Top Ten this week. Featuring tracks from Spinnin, Revealed, and Protocol Records, this week’s Top Ten is packed with electro-house bangers to anthem our summer. Let’s not forget the multi-week presence of Oliver $ and Jimi Jules’ deep-house chiller, which has comfortably nested within the Top Ten.
10. Setting the bar this week—“Bounce Generation”—produced by TJR and VINAI. Amidst slight debate, “Bounce Generation” has been argued to share similar themes to Showtek’s “Bouncer,” and other electro-house tracks released earlier in the year. As I am not privy to production dates of either producer, Showtek released their track prior to TJR and VINAI, causing many critics of The Scene to highlight the genre’s ill-gotten stereotype of ‘sounding the same.’ While I prefer TJR and Vinai’s anthem, Showtek has most certainly earned their spot amongst great producers. The collaborated track of “Bounce Generation,” while only commencing the ten-spot, is sure to be included in nearly every set list of this festival season.
9. You are not alone in your bewilderment upon seeing the release of “Love Never Felt So Good,” credited to: the one-and-only King of Pop—Michael Jackson. Nearly five years after his passing, Michael Jackson’s legacy reigns supreme as his unreleased track reached the public last month, immediately finding its home in the Billboard Top 10. Originally recorded in 1984, “Love Never Felt So Good” was venerated during this years’ iHeart Radio Award Show, accompanied by ‘burn(ing)’ supplements from Usher (the track was later released featuring Justin Timberlake, in a transposed duet with The King). As a result, we are directed to Dutch Remix Master—Fedde Le Grand. Ensuring the perfect balance of electricity and pop, Fedde’s remix achieved recognition from music-aficionados, who are otherwise unfamiliar with the supremacies of electronic dance music. Successfully defeating the mainstream breach, Fedde Le Grand’s remix is only the beginning of honorable tributes in homage of The King of Pop.
8. Twenty-five-year-old progressive-house producer, and record-label owner—Nicky Romero—is credited alongside John Christian, with his track, “Next Level.” Played by numerous DJs headlining UMF Miami and EDC New York, this track may be our new summer anthem. Christian is a classically trained musician, and graduate from the Dutch Academy of Music—only further proving his ability to produce huge dance music bangers under Romero’s Protocol Recordings. We are to expect an additional collaboration later this year.
7. Several months have passed since “Pushing On” debuted from Oliver $, Jimi Jules, and Defected Records. Their collaborated track immediately infiltrated Beatport’s Top Ten, appreciating the potential for deep-house track of the year. Their extensive residence in the Top Ten has characterized these producers in the likes of Frankie Knuckles and Derrick May.
6. Next: Jay Hardway’s anticipated track, “Bootcamp.” Released the day before EDC New York, “Bootcamp” could be heard all-across MetLife Stadium’s four stages. Rain couldn’t stop the buildup from reaching monstrous decibels, as the iconic piano-roll solidified this track in Beatport’s six-spot. As clouds loomed over New Jersey, it was his Mainstage electro-beats which rescued us from turning down. Hardway already has several collaborations with fellow electro-house producer—Martin Garrix, and continues to illustrate the incredible talent ascending from Holland.
5. Spinnin Records’ next contribution to Beatport’s Top Ten this week is: Moguai’s “ACIIID.” Inching its way into the Top Ten from the time of its May 12th release, “ACIIID” is the perfect ingredient for summer raging. The German-born producer has earned a respected reputation, substantiated by his collaborations with genre-defining producers: Deadmau5, Moby, Afrojack, and Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike. His 19-year career shows no allusion of slowing down; he has continued to produce banger-after-banger, sound-tracking our raves.
4. Patrick Topping’s “Forget” currently rests at the four-spot of Beatport’s Top Ten Tracks. For a chart which varies on a daily basis, “Forget” is exemplified as one of the best tech-house tracks of the summer. Sexy vocals parallel a distinctive techno-sound to construct a track that appeals to people unfamiliar with the techno-sub-genre. Tech/deep-house sounds are beginning to wash ashore in North America—shuffling across the Atlantic from the European Club Scene. In a lagging, trend-adopting culture within electronic dance music, new-house-sounds are beginning to appeal to the Western Ear, and infiltrate our playlists.
3. Frequent members of the Top Ten Club—Sander van Doorn, Martin Garrix, and DVBBS, collaborated in production of their track, “Gold Skies.” Featuring vocals from Aleesia—reminiscent to styles of Kid Cudi—there was no doubt that this banger would reach anthem levels. This was another track that had been immensely prevalent in sets across EDC New York, but it never seemed overpowering. Say what you will about Garrix, but to be backed by a pioneer such as Tiësto—his ‘ghost-productions’ must cost the headliner a ridiculous amount of money.
2. Few ‘Authentic’ DJs remain in today’s Dance Music Scene. Authentic—the original jockeys who carried boxes of vinyl records to every show, and using their skills to match beats, rather than syncing BPMs with the press of a button. Where Sasha (aka Alexander Paul Coe) has spun through most of the developing DJ-technologies, many (myself included) cannot compete with his vast experience and mastery over the 1s and 2s. His newest remix of London Grammar’s “Hey Now,” exemplifies the tranquil beauty of deep-house sounds.
1. The number-one spot is currently controlled by Revealed Recording stars—Paris Blohm and Taylr Renee—and their track, “Left Behinds.” Previously producing colossal, collaborated-bangers on Romero’s Protocol Recordings label (Paris Blohm—“Colors;” Taylr Renee—“Howl At The Moon”), Blohm and Renee partnered to bring the ‘Traditional Protocol Sound’ into Hardwell’s Revealed Label. The track’s upbeat synths and sexy vocals prove to be the impeccable anthem to kick off June's EDC Las Vegas.
Electronic Dance Music Album Releases to Expect in 2014.
As the Electronic Dance Music Scene ascends from its underground habitat, producers are working harder than ever to acquire mainstream music’s official stamp of validity—an album. Beginning with original tracks, mixtapes, mashups, and bootlegs, electronic dance music’s progression has recently created a demand for full-album releases. This year, we are expecting several massive albums from some of our favorite producers; even a few epic deliveries from producers still earning plays in our music libraries. None of which include the outrageously-horrendous, debatably-copyright infringing compilation, released in India earlier in March: Now That’s What I Call EDM. Here are several albums to anticipate as we progress into June, in addition to a few chart-topping albums already released this year.
Released this past March, Skrillex’s newest album—Recess—remains as one of the best-selling, full-length albums of the year. Preserving his hardstyle persona, Sonny Moore brought attention to his album through careful consideration of his audience. Appreciating his dedicated listeners, Moore embedded his 11-track album within an app (Alien Ride), developed by the Grammy-winning producer, himself. Arguably responsible for electronic music’s above-ground success, Skrillex has illustrated his artistry through both production, and performance. Purchasing an abandoned warehouse in his Los Angeles hometown earlier this year, Moore has devoted 2014 in advancement of his collaborated performances—juxtaposing his music with imaginative visual-artistry. Moore’s newest innovations were experienced in his two-weekend sets of Coachella Music and Art Festival, and featured an elaborately fabricated spaceship, atop which Skrillex masterfully mixed his one-hour sets.
Astralwerks, a sub-label of Universal Music Group, will canopy releases from both Deadmau5 and Porter Robinson, this year. With Deadmau5’s unannounced release-date of his 25-track album, Porter Robinson is illustrating what we expected from the producer who had a relatively-silent conclusion of 2013. As Joel Zimmerman continues to publicly condemn the mainstreaming of electronic music, corroborated by his public disgust of the above EDM Compilation, Astralwerks has expended immense effort in Porter Robinson’s Worlds release, newly-announced for August 12th. The 21-year-old producer has released two tracks from his upcoming album (Sea of Voices and Sad Machine), and announced his album-entitled tour starting August 28th in Vancouver, BC.
Although receiving negative criticism of its release, Afrojack’s first album, Forget The World, was perceivably over-hyped by the Top-10 Headliner. Perhaps, exemplifying the criticisms broadcasted by Deadmau5, Porter Robinson, and Kaskade, Nick van de Wall’s debut album is rife with mainstream ingredients that will be sure to top radio charts around the world. Appreciating both sides of the mainstream argument, Forget The World offers little variation between tracks. Each track resembles one another, either through a recurring kick, pop-synths, or incessant, overly- positive lyrical features. While he was able to work with artists such as: Sting, Snoop, and Wiz, Afrojack failed to provide an eclectic album that entices listeners to attach themselves with the collection. This is not intended to detract from Afrojack as an artist, as he remains an incredible producer of dance music. Van de Wall will likely learn from his errors, and impress us once more with his second album.
Merely weeks away from Tiësto’s release of his newest album—A Town Called Paradise—the Dutch Producer never ceases to amaze. Releasing “Red Lights,” positioned as the first track of the album, this will be the sixth studio collection created by the prolific producer. Most recently, he has released two additional tracks from the album (“Wasted” and “Let’s Go”), with the full-album release scheduled for June 16th. Few words can be said that are not already known about the Grammy-nominated electronic dance music producer; whether we are commending his original productions, or his epic remixes, Tiësto’s discography extends longer than my years alive. His record label, Musical Freedom, premiered productions from talented artists such as: Martin Garrix, 3LAU, Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano, Oliver Heldens, Danny Avila, and others. Reaching 45-years-of-age, Tiësto shows not-even-the-slightest intention of slowing down.
Appearing opposite Tiësto on the age spectrum for electronic dance music producers, 19-year-old, French DJ/producer—Madeon—will be a name to look for in 2014. If you have been privileged to follow the amazingly-talented producer already, there is no doubt you have listened to many of his incredible tracks: “For You,” “Icarus,” “Finale,” “The City,” “Technicolor,” and “Cut The Kid;” not forgetting his collaborations with Ellie Goulding, Lady Gaga, and Coldplay. His production skills were displayed in his invited-sets from 2012’s Ultra, Lollapalooza, Coachella, and Electric Daisy festivals. Although there has yet to be an announced full-length album in 2014, the French producer has been known to keep things quiet before unleashing massive electro-house bangers to the public.
As full-length albums become increasingly necessary in the ranking legitimacy of electronic music producers, we will soon be seeing contributions from Dillon Francis, Steve Aoki, Eric Prydz, Bassnectar, Steve Angello, and of course—the scapegoat in Saturday Night Lives’ newest EDM parody, satirizing the over-glorification of the electronic music DJs/producers—Avicii. The 2-minute clip was supposedly imagined by former cast-member, Andy Samberg, and was vaulted until the humor would reach peak-effect. Admittedly, it was funny; as I was also relieved the skit did not validate inaccuracies of a prominent drug culture within The Scene.
]]>
Let’s Get ‘Higher’ with the ‘Ultimate DJ’
Making headlines this week, news of famed American Idol judge and X-Factor Creator, Simon Cowell, is slated to begin production of a DJ-themed competition series. The former American Idol judge/music critic will collaborate with SFX Chief Executive—Robert Sillerman—and T-Mobile, bringing Electronic Dance Music Producers together in competition. Reportedly, producers will submit original tracks and mixes through social media websites, such as YouTube, as auditions for the show. Once the artists are selected, the show will commence with live performances in SFX-sponsored events, initiating the final stages of the competition. The show is set to be named “Ultimate DJ,” and is the concept of Cowell, himself. He has seen the immense growth that quickly developed within the EDM Scene, and wants in. Through his production company—Syco Entertainment—Cowell has formulated a proposal that profoundly integrates EDM into Popular Culture. It is greatly debated whether that is something to be pleased about, but if it will be one thing, it will be controversial.
There are defining characteristics of Cowell that we look for in other television-competition judges, but are often unparalleled from his inimitability. Whether it is the British accent, brutal honesty of an artist’s performance, or the combination, millions of viewers tune-in to the featured programs in anticipation of his spectacled reactions. Although he does not specialize in critiquing the genre of Electronic Dance Music, he is a music critic that appreciates sound, in all of its waveforms and beats per minute. If he were to take the seat as a panel judge, he could provide a perspective that is respected within the music industry, but is also relayed in an honest hilarity that attracts consumer attention. Perhaps, he shares similarities to EDM Producers: Deadmau5 and Kaskade, who are notorious for publicly critiquing the genre’s artists and consumers. The inception of “Ultimate DJ” will unquestionably irritate the outspoken artists, given their overt discontent of EDMs ‘selling-out into commercialism.’
While, in a sense, it would be considered commercializing, “Ultimate DJ” has the potential to augment the media’s negative coverage of The Scene. Given Simon Cowell’s sponsorship, the Electronic Music Culture would be re-evaluated, contesting the disparaging exposure that has turned to stereotype. Yes, it will likely attract an audience that has never-before been associated with Electronic Music, but who knew “Animals” would become the new “Electric Slide” in many wedding-playlists?
For those ragers still unsure about accepting the new program, SFX Entertainment’s partnership should quell many of your concerns. Responsible as the leading contributor to the World’s Electronic Music Culture, SFX generates festivals such as: Tomorrowland, TomorrowWorld, Mysteryland, Electric Zoo, Life in Color, and Decibel; let’s not forget about their proprietorship of the essential online resource for Electronic Music—Beatport. As the EDM Industry’s value increases to figures exceeding $4.5 Billion, SFX is credited for yielding many of those billions. With their background in mind, it is unlikely they would sponsor a production that would bring anything other than success.
Contrastingly, Simon Cowell is not the only architect looking to bridge the gap of EDM and Popular Culture. Hip-Hop impresario—Jay Z—alongside actor/producer/rapper—Will Smith—are rumored to be joining Calvin Harris and HBO, in production of an Electronic Dance Music-themed comedy series. If the contributors could not get any better, Trainspotting author/director, Irvine Welsh, will transcribe the 30-minute episodic series. Seen from the above “Ultimate DJ,” “Higher” (the show’s expected title), is amidst both positive, and negative criticism. Separate from The Scene’s opinion of Pop Culture’s mainstream integration, there is concern of a potentially destructive involvement of the Hip-Hop icons. Lacking background in many nuances that lie within the EDM Culture, critics of the proposed show believe there is a lot of room for interference from the series’ production company owners. As Jay Z and Smith will be signing the checks, there is meddling potential that could detract from the successful reach (in regard to popularity, rather than financial) of the program.
Ideally, from an EDM centralized perspective, Jay Z and Smith must entrust “Higher” to the proper sculptors—Harris and Welsh—to guarantee success. Electronic Music is a multi-billion Dollar industry, powerful enough to financially support the HBO series if acceptance of those outside The Scene lacks.
Calvin Harris is currently one of the highest paid producers in the world; along with Welsh’s powerful storytelling abilities, there is a higher expectation for EDM approval. The show is expected to comically satirize many aspects of the EDM Culture, potentially incorporating themes of: egotistical DJs, button pushing/knob twisting, pre-recording, drug-filled festivals, and many other controversial subjects that we look forward to—self-reflectively—make us laugh. Perhaps, Jay Z’s friendship with Kanye West will be included in the show, as we can always use a laugh at Yeezus’ latest tricks. There has been no rumor of the show’s production date; but once it is released, you can expect an increase in talk amongst mainstream media outlets.
]]>
Beatport's Top Ten--Artist Profiles
Beatport’s Top Ten
For many of us, Beatport serves as our nucleus for everything associated with Electronic Dance Music and DJing. Celebrating its 10-year anniversary this past January, Beatport is fortified as the leading, online-music-store platform in the world. It is accessible in more than 230 countries, and provides DJs with the newest tracks (all across the spectrum: from headliners, to first-time producers) to feature in their sets. This week, we are embraced with fantastic, new tracks from some of the most decorated names in EDM. Here is an overview of Beatport’s current Top Ten:
10. Showtek, Ookay: “Bouncer”
This week, Showtek has two bangers in Beatport’s Top Ten. Together with San Diego producer—Ookay, the Dutch brother-duo generated a track that perfectly resembles what we expect from a Showtek sound. Highlighting incredible synths associated with Showtek’s signature, “Bouncer” has a drop that forces you to do exactly that—bounce. Moving forward from their Label defining chart-topper—We Like To Party—“Bouncer” was released just in time for DJs to exhibit at this year’s Ultra Music Festival in Miami.
9. Eric Prydz: “Liberate”
With no surprise, any new release from Prydz propels him into Beatport’s Top Ten. Featured within more than 100 Charts from Beatport’s Artist Playlists, “Liberate” is a perfect mixture of progressive house, and trance. After unveiling his revolutionary HOLO-Stage several weeks ago at UMF Miami, Eric Prydz proves his mastery yet again, of Electronic Music Production. Unbeknownst to some, he personifies several aliases, such as: Pryda (also branded as his newest Label), Cirez D, and A&P Project, to name three of his ten pseudonyms. Nicknamed the ‘Progressive Prince,’ Eric Prydz is honored among some of the greatest Electronic Music producers of our generation.
8. Fedde Le Grand: “Don’t Give Up”
Among a handful of producers whose stage-name parallels their birth-name, Fedde Le Grand has been producing Top-Ten bangers over the last 11 years. Le Grand is a guaranteed headliner at nearly every festival around the world; this year, unveiling six new records for UMF Miami (“Don’t Give Up” included). He earned an international audience from his “Put Your Hands Up For Detroit” track that he released in 2006 under his Dutch Label—Flamingo Recordings.
7. Shiba San: “Okay”
This track features some great Retro-House sounds that unquestionably earn Shiba San a spot at number seven. After being released in February, “Okay” has suitably shuffled its way up Beatport’s Top 100. The deeply-reverberated voice is a unique characteristic that not only echoes in the track, but in our minds well after its six-minutes. Shiba San is only in his beginning stages of success, gaining a following after his December, Indie-Dance/Nu Disco banger—“Westside Connection.” Although his production background is in the Hip-Hop realm, San has impressively entered into the EDM Scene with his distinctive retro sound, making him a Deep-House favorite.
6. Hardwell: “Everybody Is In The Place”
There is little need to provide background of DJ Magazine’s newly re- appointed, Number One DJ in the world—Robbert van de Corput—or, Hardwell. It is claimed that the Dutch Electronic Dance Music Scene is the most difficult venue to acquire success. Perhaps, explaining why many of the World’s Greatest DJs are products of the hard-to-please, Dutch EDM Culture. The demand for innovative sounds and performances in the Netherlands is so immense, that artists have needed to substantiate their skills with more than just at-home/in-studio productions. DJs that have earned success in the Dutch Market are virtually guaranteed international notoriety; as a result, it is the trend-setting forecaster for the future of Electronic Dance Music. “Everybody Is In The Place” was a much-anticipated track of Hardwell’s Ultra Miami, festival-closing set.
5. Sander van Doorn, Firebeatz: “Guitar Track”
Released as an ID (unidentified artist(s)), “Guitar Track” achieved immediate international approval, despite its unknown creators. Accepting credit shortly prior to this year’s UMF Miami, Dutch producers: Sander van Doorn and Firebeatz (Tim and Jurre), came forth with a banger that had been previewed in nearly every DJ podcast weeks before its official release. Once again illustrating the immense talent produced by the Dutch EDM Scene, van Doorn and Firebeatz created a memorable build-up and drop that possess the qualities of a long-lasting set necessity. It’s upbeat, melodic elements demonstrate the work of true, Electronic Dance Music geniuses.
4. Armin van Buuren: “Ping Pong”
Our Trance-God—Armin van Buuren—is no rookie of Beatport’s Top Ten. Producing genre-defining Trance since 1995, van Buuren possesses more than 40 international DJ awards, all-the-while, nominated for more than two- times that amount, in his enduring 18-year career. With his record-setting ‘A State of Trance’ radio broadcast, more than 20 million souls unite every Thursday in His Honor. ‘ASOT’ has been the premier network, presenting the world’s greatest Trance producers over the last 13 years. Granted an entire stage at many of the largest Electronic Music Festivals around the world, Armin—and his ‘ASOT’—have inspired the rise of an Uplifting/Progressive Trance that revolutionized the EDM expansion.
3. David Guetta, Showtek (feat. Vassy): “Bad”
The 46 year-old French producer has done everything but decelerate in his 30-year Music Career. Having collaborated/produced for many of music’s Most Popular from across all genres, Guetta has teamed with the previously listed—Showtek, in creation of the track, “Bad.” As every Guetta Production has demonstrated, this track is pure perfection; with the addition of Showtek, this track was destined for Beatport’s Top Ten. “Bad” is Guetta’s second, chart-topping release in 2014 to grace the Top Ten.
2. Ummet Ozcan: “Raise Your Hands”
Another Dutch producer in the Top Ten, Ummet Ozcan has established a magnificent career in the World of EDM. His career amplified in 2009, releasing tracks under Sander van Doorn’s Spinnin’ Records sub-label—Doorn, and Reset. “Raise Your Hands” possesses the inimitable sound Ozcan has developed throughout his career. In addition to his music production, Ummet has developed several software programs, designing new synths and soundbanks. He is currently developing a synthesizer—Genesis Pro—but, withholding every detail to leave us anticipatorily guessing. His (2013) collaborations with R3hab and W &W entered into nearly-every platform’s Top Ten.
1. Oliver $, Jimi Jules (feat. The Quantic Soul Orquestra): “Pushing On”
This week’s number one track is a collaborated production from the Berlin-House, and Swiss DJs. Oliver $ is notably recognized from his (2012) Track of the Year: “Doin Ya Thang,” whereas Jimi Jules, for his (2013) EP “Earl,” on the Swiss Label—Hive Audio. This chart-topper is stacked with Deep-House, Jazz-esque sounds, enchanting your body to continually shuffle.
DJ Highlight:
This week, we are privileged to feature New York DJ—Dave Sirota. Known by his performing-name, Youngblood, the 17 year-old DJ from Upstate New York, has devoted the past two years honing his craft. Dave was introduced to the EDM Scene shortly after launching his DJ career, instantaneously falling in love with all-things EDM and PLUR. Experiencing the passionate emotions representative of the EDM Culture, Dave developed an even greater appreciation for Electronic Dance Music. He is currently partnered with ‘No ID Events,’ and is a Resident DJ for Stage 48 in New York City.
Check out his SoundCloud for a Preview of his upcoming set at Stage 48:
https://soundcloud.com/dave-sirota