Ultra Music Festival 2023 came and went and did so in spectacular fashion. The decades old, household name in EDM festivals has always felt like the New Year of the music festival circuit. It’s biggest claim to fame is that it’s where most producers and DJs in the scene show off a plethora of unreleased content which everyone ends up hearing all year round. And this year didn’t disappoint with some key, contributive factors including off-the-wall special guests, inclusion of more diverse genres in the EDM pantheon, and revolutionizing one the festival’s underground destinations: Resistance. The special guests at Ultra have always been apart of the mystique of Ultra Music Festival. Past years included iconic moments from Madonna, Kodak Black, Slash, and even Will Smith. However, this year’s special guests felt more in-tuned with newer music and artists than years prior. These included artists that felt like the most appropriate for an outing in Miami while others felt so out-of-pocket in the best way. In the first category, Marshmello headlined the main stage with his own combination of bass music rage and nostalgia callbacks (see Benny Benassi’s Satisfaction vs Party Favor’s WAWA [Lights Out Jersey Remix]). But out of nowhere, he’s joined by one unexpected artist after another. Marshmello cemented Ultra Music Festival as the only place to properly spring break with GloRilla and Roddy Rich playing their biggest hits. But everyone in attendance can agree that the energy peaked that evening when Farruko came on stage to perform “Pepas” in front of thousands of ravers. The collab they previewed together right after might have helped maintain that energy just a little longer. In the second category, Zedd pulled out Ice Spice… Yeah, let that sink in for a second. Interestingly enough, it was a pretty clever, albeit out-there appearance. The rapper came up to sing her song “No Clarity” right as Zedd had teased one of his biggest tracks of all time “Clarity”. Despite both artists feeling like their from complete different eras and backgrounds, they were a perfect fit in unifying each other’s audiences into one crowd. But I’m sure that didn’t stop fans watching the livestream to mouth out, “What the…” Meanwhile, David Guetta had a similar moment bringing out Coi Leray, but at least Guetta has a remix of Leray’s song “Players” that just released to tie the two artists together.
Another aspect to that made this year’s UMF so special was the inclusion of newer scene artists from genres that don’t typically see a lot of love in Miami history. Typically, despite being the place to hear some of the newest music of the year, Ultra’s history shows a lot of favoritism towards house music. But this year, the stages were shared with artists from more musical movements within the EDM landscape. First and foremost, the biggest surprise was Charlotte De Witte at the main stage. It may have been earlier in the day, and maybe it was a shorter set than most people are used to hearing from an artist of her caliber. But the fact that a TECHNO artist was performing at the MAIN STAGE at a MAJOR MUSIC FESTIVAL is next-to unheard of. But Ultra took a chance and the set couldn’t have been more perfect for getting Miami out of its comfort zone. Meanwhile, the Worldwide stage hosted drum n’ bass rising star Dimension who obliterated fans with his repertoire of 2-step grooves and anthemic cuts. It was also a big year to see stars of bass music in general at Ultra Music Festival from Subtronic’s bass-laced wonderland to Lil Texas and his rage-induced, happy-hardcore utopia. Finally, the biggest thing to talk about was was the major upgrade to the RESISTANCE. To those out-of-the-know, Resistance is the name of one of the biggest brands that can take over a stage at Ultra Music Festival. When they’re in charge, they tout the ultimate artists playing house, techno, and in the past it was the host for A State of Trance (this year hosted by the Worldwide Stage). Resistance usually takes refuge in the Megastructure, but most people know it as the home for one of the biggest names in the dance music space: Carl Cox. His presence at the Megastructure annually is a constant in life like death and taxes. But the artists who get to share that stage get to see one of the most ambitious and intimidating views any artist could have in front of them. Take a look for yourself! Leading up to the legend were dazzling sets from Enrico Sangiuliano, Ilario Alicante, and Anfisa Letgayo. But the immaculate support didn’t stop there. Buzz continues to circulate around sets from Tale of Us, Maceo Plex b2b Michael Bibi, Adam Beyer b2b Cirez D, and lest we forget the Testpilot b2b HI-LO takeover. For Friday-goers, they may have caught a glimpse at a legendary Swede closing the stage with his must-see HOLO set. The one and only Eric Prydz returned to UMF with a new set of eye-candy visuals laced with his progressive house prowess. Even with my best penmanship, words fail to describe how encapsulating it was to be under that tent. But for those looking for a more intimate sense of techno and house music that trade glitz and glamour for pure sonic escapism, there was another RESISTANCE stage called The Cove. In previous years, the Cove used to be known as Arcadia where it touted their depth-defying Spider stage, where the DJs would hang above the crowd for a 360° experience rarely delivered at music festivals. But when Arcadia and Ultra parted ways, it gave the festival organizers and opportunity to see just how much bigger they could take the Cove. And this year, they delivered. It started with each day being taken over by different labels. On Friday, Nicole Moudaber‘s IN THE MOOD collective reigned supreme. From Juliet Fox owning the daylight hours to Ida Engberg and Maya Jane Coles simply hypnotizing the Friday crowd. But if you weren’t there for Moudaber b2b with frequent partner-in-crime Chris Liebing, I can only describe it as audio-heaven. Saturday’s lineup shifted into a more progressive and deep house direction with Joris Voorn presenting SPECTRUM at the helm and support from Mind Against and Franky Wah. Meanwhile, Sunday had all the campers out with Dirtybird hosting. Sets from label boss Claude VonStroke and his horde of tech house players like VNSSA, Walker & Royce, and Shiba San even had the backstage crews shuffling. In short, Ultra Music Festival 2023 has kicked off the new year for the music festival landscape and did so in typical, yet iconic fashion. The special guests turned heads, more artists from lesser explored subgenres got to share the spotlight, and RESISTANCE is taking a proactive approach at being more than just an annual destination at the show. All this has me wondering…how long until I should be booking my next flight and stay at Miami for 2024.
Photo credits: Alive Coverage, Rukes, Rudgr.com This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Ultra Music Festival: Reinventing RESISTANCE and Special Guests [Review] Via https://www.youredm.com/2023/03/31/ultra-music-festival-reinventing-resistance-and-special-guests-review/
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Habstrakt has been a pillar of the bass community since the genre first boomed around 2014-2015. But, like all artists, his story begins years earlier as he rose in popularity with releases on Never Say Die, putting out three banger dubstep EPs from 2012-2013. In 2014, he put out his first single on Disciple, the newly minted (at the time) label from Rossy of Astronaut and Mediks and Rob from Dodge & Fuski. In 2015, he put out “Time” on his Cool Cats Never Die EP, the first track of his that might fit within the “bass house” genre. Later that year, he leaned into it more with My People. It wasn’t until 2017 with “I Wanna” with Jace Mek that he really began to be known as a “bass house artist.” Even then, his genre style carried with it years of experience and variety, bringing in elements of heavier bass and his French heritage. Here we are, six years later, and Heritage has become a banner for him and the title of his debut album. It’s a nod to his French roots and, likely, how far he’s come in this scene in an overall sense. His last EP was in 2016 with French Press on Never Say Die, and it’s been all singles from then until now. “From the heaviest to the deepest, I hope people will resonate with the album, and find their favorite record inside in the process,” said Habstrakt. “It’s a journey through the past, the present and the future of my vision.” The album showcases Habstrakt’s versatility as an artist, including different styles he has not shown before and ones that are not necessarily defined as a “dance floor banger.” Many of the tracks go against the grain of traditional electronic music, including ambient sounds with minimal lyrics, but still tell a complete story. From start to end, Heritage tells his journey as an artist, searching to find his sound in the EDM industry, and shows every aspect of Habstrakt’s current state of mind. Listen below! Currently on his Heritage tour, Habstrakt has played in four countries in Europe and is set to play thirteen cities across the U.S., including The Midway in San Francisco and Soundcheck in Washington D.C. Current U.S. cities and dates below: March 24 – Philadelphia, PA For more information visit www.heritage2023.com
Photo via Rukes.com This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Habstrakt releases debut album, “Heritage” Via https://www.youredm.com/2023/03/31/habstrakt-releases-debut-album-heritage/ Following explosive singles such as “Salvo” and “Decennary,” rising trailblazer GunFight has just created bass music heaven with “Ride.” Currently based in Los Angeles and hailing from Austin, Texas, GunFight has been cementing himself as one of bass music’s most exciting up-and-comers over the past years, methodically unveiling single after single while capturing the attention of various industry professionals, as well as an ever-growing and engaged fanbase. While GunFight’s recent success shines the brightest, the bass music mastermind has been releasing music for almost a decade now, with his debut official EP Infinite landing on streaming platforms back in 2014. Following a small hiatus, GunFight went on to release two albums throughout 2017 with Rouse and Paramount, that nicely displayed his genre-bending style over a total of 15 combined tracks. Since early 2020, GunFight has been immensely consistent with his music releases while setting the blueprint for how independent artists should go about growing their careers. With almost 30 singles under his belt over these past three years, GunFight has explored a myriad of bass music genres, while maintaining a cohesive visual aesthetic that is extremely well-stylized, and features dystopian, post-apocalyptic and cyberpunk-inspired art. GunFight’s visualizer choices are as impressive as his music, which has earned him support from the likes of Don Diablo, Cedric Gervais, Jauz, Slushii, Craze, Lost Frequencies and Zeds Dead. Ranging from drum & bass, dubstep and electro house to more niche genres like synth-wave, drumstep, and midtempo, GunFight’s catalog is unconventional and versatile while being characterized by a unified sonic direction. GunFight’s brand new single “Ride” makes for the perfect example of his music production prowess and might be one of his heaviest to date. A breaks tune with cinematic intros and distorted drops, “Ride” follows a unique arrangement while transitioning from section to section at light speed. Eerie atmospheres and groovy drums kick off the single, followed by a buildup that sounds like the soundtrack to a shooter game. The drop is as meticulous as it is explosive, with the final result being a ruthless bass music anthem that we can’t get enough of. “Ride” marks GunFight’s third single of 2023, and certainly not the last. If his previous years are any indication, we can surely expect a lot more bangers from the talented producer to drop over the coming months, as it looks like he’s far from slowing down anytime soon. This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: GunFight’s New Single “Ride” Is A Thrilling And Heavy Sonic Journey Via https://www.youredm.com/2023/03/31/gunfights-new-single-ride-is-a-thrilling-and-heavy-sonic-journey/ Maryland-based music producer, DJ, and music artist Joseph Liverman has just released his latest single, “Stay,” and it’s already causing a stir in the music industry. This chill track fuses elements of EDM, pop, and trap music, showcasing Liverman’s versatility as a producer and his ability to create music that resonates with a wide range of audiences. “Stay” features beautiful vocals and an infectious vibe that reminds listeners of The Chainsmokers. Liverman has been producing music for years and has honed his craft to become a skilled and versatile producer. He draws inspiration from various sources, including his personal experiences, other music genres, and different cultures. “Stay” is the result of his creative experimentation and desire to push boundaries and create something new. The track opens with a mellow beat that gradually builds, drawing listeners in with its soothing rhythm. The catchy melody is carried by a smooth and fluid bassline, adding depth and texture to the track. The chorus is the song’s highlight, with its catchy hooks and powerful vocals that drive the track’s energy to new heights. “Stay” is just the beginning for Liverman, who has big plans for his music career. He hopes to become a household name in the music industry and produce some of the decade’s finest albums. With his talent and dedication, there’s no doubt that he will achieve his dreams. The release of “Stay” is a milestone in Liverman’s music career, and he’s excited to see where it takes him. He’s already gained a dedicated fanbase and has received praise from music critics and industry professionals alike. One thing that makes Liverman stand out in the music industry is his ability to connect with his audience. He understands that music is a powerful tool that brings people together and creates a sense of community. His music is meant to be experienced, and he hopes it will inspire his listeners to feel and connect with each other. “Stay” is now available on all major streaming platforms, and EDM, pop, and trap music fans will want to take advantage of this beautiful new single. The song is proof of Liverman’s ability to create music that is both innovative and entertaining and sets the stage for his success. Joseph Liverman’s latest single, “Stay,” is a must-listen for music lovers, and we can’t wait to see what he has in store for the future.
This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Joseph Liverman release brand new tune “Stay” Via https://www.youredm.com/2023/03/30/joseph-liverman-release-brand-new-tune-stay/ Kyle Watson continues to be a prolific producer/ DJ and purveyor of good times whenever he’s in the house. The South African born artist has been tirelessly slaving away in the studio for over 15 years developing a sound incredibly unique to him, earning him top of mind status in the house scene. He’s even featured on some of dance music’s most prominent labels including Higher Ground, Atlantic Records, REALM and Armada, and with industry nods from heavyweights such as Chris Lake, Gorgon City and Diplo. Today, he’s announced the launch of his own label ‘No Context Records’ with the debut single, a thumping tech house heater, “Kick Drums”! The quintessence of any dance track is the kick drum, it’s the glue that holds the whole thing together. Kyle has paired the perfect kick with a low rumbling bassline that hits right in the chest, a chugging percussion and a unique set of builds with distinctive sound design that culminates in a certified dance floor belter.
Listen below!
This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Kyle Watson Launches New Label ‘No Context’ With Debut Release, “Kick Drums” Via https://www.youredm.com/2023/03/30/kyle-watson-launches-new-label-no-context-with-debut-release-kick-drums/ Two-time award-winning artist NIK:11 is on a mission to showcase her eclectic sound which varies from electro, big-room bounce, tech-house, and more. She’s toured around the globe including festivals in America, Japan, and Europe, even hitting the Billboard Dance Chart with her track “KICKBACK” featuring Ouiwey Collins. For her latest single, NIK:11 has called upon Grammy-nominated producer Chico Bennett for their mesmerizing single “Pillow Talk“. It feels like a early 2000’s dance floor anthem, reminiscent of earlier Lady Gaga with a sprinkle of Zedd, that you’d expect to be dancing your heart out to in the middle of the night at a club in Miami. This song was inspired by the 1973 release of the 70’s classic R&B track “Pillow Talk”, written and performed by Sylvia Robinson, which NIK:11 shares:
Listen below! This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: NIK:11 Releases Mesmerizing Classic Rave Single “Pillow Talk” Via https://www.youredm.com/2023/03/30/nik11-releases-mesmerizing-classic-rave-single-pillow-talk/ Rich Furniss Teams Up With Morsy & Buck For Underground Single Desire [Quincy Boy Records]3/30/2023 Hungry and ambitious NYC based talent Rich Furniss continues to impress us with his tunes, who seems to blend the classic roots of house music with a compelling modern twist. Today, he’s revealed what could be one of his best releases to date with “Desire,” in collaboration with friends Morsy and Buck. While many of his past releases have boasted a disco / classic house influence, “Desire,” goes much heavier on a modern techno feel, a real tune for the underground. The vocal encompasses a Green Velvet esque type of trippy vocal, while synths pulsate and percussion elements come together in a gripping fashion. Here’s what Rich had to say about it:
Listen below!
This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Rich Furniss Teams Up With Morsy & Buck For Underground Single “Desire” [Quincy Boy Records] Via https://www.youredm.com/2023/03/30/rich-furniss-teams-up-with-morsy-buck-for-underground-single-desire-quincy-boy-records/ Black V Neck continue to be one of the most exciting tech house duo’s around. Previous accolades include support from legends Claude VonStroke, Chris Lake, Green Velvet, Lee Foss, Shiba San, along with label releases on Sink or Swim, Repopulate Mars, Confession, Insomniac Records, and OWSLA. This talented young duo has teamed up again with one of the most iconic DJs in modern electronic history, Afrojack, to unleash a house heater that merges the best of both their styles into one release. Titled, “Oral Music,” this is a tune guaranteed to burn up the dance floors all summer long with it’s rumbling bass and electrifying vocal sampling elements. It’s a song that instantly seems to boost your mojo the minute you press play. Here’s what Black V Neck had to say about it:
Listen below! This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Black V Neck Team Up Again With Afrojack For Rumbling Single, “Oral Music” Via https://www.youredm.com/2023/03/30/black-v-neck-team-up-again-with-afrojack-for-rumbling-single-oral-music/ With three new releases lined up with Nervous Records, fans of Two Lee’s unique sound can look forward to more of his signature style in 2023. The Italian DJ and producer has been making waves in the electronic music scene for several years now, and this year looks set to be big for him. Born in Italy, Two Lee’s passion for music started at an early age, and he began DJing in his teenage years. As his skills developed, he began producing his own tracks, drawing inspiration from a range of genres, including techno, deep house, and minimal. Now, Two Lee is gearing up for a busy year with three new releases on Nervous Records, a label that has been at the forefront of the house and techno scene since its inception in 1991. The first of these releases, “Lost Inside,” is due to drop after spring, and fans can expect a deep and atmospheric track that showcases Two Lee’s mastery of melody and texture. The other two tracks – “Souther Girl feat. Skyler Harris” and “Want to Tonight feat. Natasha Watts,” will also be launched later this year. Taking to Instagram, Two Lee shared the excitement after signing the contract with Nervous Records. Partnering with Nervous Records, a label renowned for its commitment to delivering cutting-edge electronic music, Two Lee is poised to take his career to new heights. The label has a long history of working with some of the biggest names in dance music, including Armand Van Helden, Josh Wink, and Masters at Work, among others. This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Two Lee Gears Up for Three New Releases in 2023 with Nervous Records Via https://www.youredm.com/2023/03/30/two-lee-gears-up-for-three-new-releases-in-2023-with-nervous-records/ Bass Canyon reveals 2023 lineup: Knife Party SVDDEN DEATH Space Laces GRiZ Pendulum & more3/30/2023 Bass Canyon will once again return to The Gorge in Washington for another three days of stellar programming, music, lights and sounds. Excision will play his regular set at the festival, as well as his usual Detox, along with a B2B with a still-blurred out name from the lineup. This year, you can catch sets from Knife Party, SVDDEN DEATH, FuntCase, GRiZ, Pendulum, Liquid Stranger, Black Tiger Sex Machine, Grabbitz, The Prototypes, Space Laces, and more. Tickets can be found here.
This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Bass Canyon reveals 2023 lineup: Knife Party, SVDDEN DEATH, Space Laces, GRiZ, Pendulum, & more Via https://www.youredm.com/2023/03/30/bass-canyon-reveals-2023-lineup-knife-party-svdden-death-space-laces-griz-pendulum-more/ |
AuthorTim Schmidt Archives
April 2023
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