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Spring Awakening Music Festival Preview

By: Natty Morrison

Chicago is known for a few things: Beer, Brats, the Bears—and, of course, house music. Perhaps those don’t all fit together perfectly, but it does make sense that the first ever, two-day, all EDM festival in Chicago would take place in the legendary home of the Chicago Bears. On June 16 and 17, Soldier Field will play host to Spring Awakening, a massive gathering of dance music featuring some of the top performers and producers from across the world, with names such as Skrillex, Afrojack, Moby, Flux Pavilion, Diplo, Datsik and Dillon Francis all set to throw down in a setting so encapsulating of Midwest experience, Norman Rockwell couldn’t have dreamed it better.

Unlike other big Chicago music festivals, this one doesn’t come with a big Chicago price tag. Two-Day passes are retailing at $119.99, with Single-Day tickets priced at $65.00 There’s also a VIP experience package, with Two-Days for $239.99 and Single-Days for $120.00 Tickets are available through Clubtix.net which, thankfully, means less ticket surcharges than that other ticket site.
As Chicago prepares itself for this momentous and momentary influx of EDM fans, tickets are going faster than ever with the announcements of multiple after parties starring Skrillex, Diplo, Ferry Corsten, Claude VonStroke, Benny Benassi, Dillon Francis, and Designer Drugs at clubs across the Windy City. Tickets for the late night events are going even faster, and are available for purchase through Clubtix and the Spring Awakening website.

Due to popular demand, Spring Awakening has announced that the main stage will be located inside Soldiers Field, with three more stages located outside, on the south end of the stadium. Fans are praising this historic moment, as this will be the first time an all-dance music event takes place both inside AND outside the venue. Though the schedule has yet to be announced, the wide number of stages and DJs ensure a non-stop party that, much like the famed Chicago winters, will refuse to let up (regardless of what any weatherman says). With the ever-steady hands of React Presents and the Congress Theater at the wheel, Spring Awakening promises to be an epic, twisted, and joyous journey to the heart of Midwest – and worldwide – dance music scene.

The Untz is now proud to offer our selection of favorite tracks and beats from some of the hottest names performing at this year’s inaugural Spring Awakening festival in Chicago, IL, June 16-17!

Skrillex - Right In

Flux Pavilion feat. Example - Daydreamer

Wolfgang Gartner - Flexx

Dillon Francis - Falling Up

Midnight Conspiracy - Discord

LoBounce - Oil Slick (Part of The Untz 2011 Summer Sampler)

Kether: Moon Boom EP Review

By: Jordan Calvano

Beatport Purchase Link: http://www.beatport.com/release/moon-boom/913793

Stephan Jacobs and Ruff Hauser are two incredibly talented producers who have a knack for unleashing tenacious soundscapes on any audience that dare step in front of their live setups.

Well when the two combine forces, they form the bass driven group Kether. Their monumental sounds may be on two different sides of the spectrum, but when brought together it seems nothing can stop this duo’s vicious instrumentations. Their rapid drum patterns and synth drops carry a significant force, and will quickly have any glitch savvy fan moving like nobody’s business. This can be heard on speaker blasting original cuts like the ones released off their jaw dropping, dubbed out EP’s Marine Layer and Layer 2, and on a recent Joanna Newsom remix.

On their Moon Boom EP released via Tycho Records, the pair of Los Angeles based producers strike with a passionate set of songs that contain charismatic energy and nostalgic vibrations from start to finish.

Staring off the party is “What You’ll See,” which opens up with light synth melodies and a series of pitch changed vocals that eventually transition into a relentless series of riotous, dub tones.

“Mythicus” is an organic cut featuring mysterious crescendos and glitched out bass strikes that could be used as a tool to get a house party rocking, or to simply relax the mind with. This song is a huge step for these eccentric producers, and truly shows a much more developed sound that combines their unique set of talents in a whole new way.

“Moonlight (Dub Mix)” is a bubbly tune infused with atmospheric soundwaves and tenacious wobbles that will have any listener floating above the clouds, while the “(4x4)” version is a dance worthy cut that shows a much more electro house oriented side to Kether’s music.

“She Rains” strikes immediately with a set of gigantic synth waves and the tantalizing vocals of Delevo, which come together to form a ferocious cut that will entwine the listener into each section of organic craftsmanship released from these two respectable producers.

The Moon Boom EP is a momentous step for Jacobs and Hauser, and will truly show that they have no fear when it comes to creating a unique sound that is energetic and well developed.

Mint Green Music Festival Announces Full Lineup for August 2012

Mint Green Music Festival (MGMF) has announced its second round of artists to complete the lineup for its inaugural event on August 24 & 25 at the Salem County Fairgrounds in Woodstown, NJ. The second round announcement includes late-night headliners CLAUDE VONSTROKE and BREAK SCIENCE, as well as UP UNTIL NOW, NORMAL INSTRUMENTS, JEFF BUJAK, JIMKATA, BEAM&DEEM, MICHAEL NIGHTTIME, COSMIC DUST BUNNIES, SOLARIS, and several more.

These artists join TWO FRESH, BOOMBOX, and other previously announced acts such as ARCHNEMESIS, DR FAMEUS, ZOOGMA, THE MALAH, THE INDOBOX, WOBBLESAUCE and others on MGMF’s Main Stage, indoor side stage, and TheUntz.com Stage. Additional DJs will also be performing during daytime hours at the Name Brand Glass Lounge (www.namebrandglass.com). Visit www.mintgreenfestival.com for full lineup and artist details.

Located just 40 minutes outside of Philadelphia, the Salem County Fairgrounds is convenient in location, accommodates car camping, and is the perfect venue to highlight the Mint Green Arts Program. MGMF will provide a mixture of installation, interactive and live art, with many of the projects focusing on the idea of community and our impact on the environment as well as one another. MGMF will attempt to use as many recycled and natural materials as possible in all installation art and most of the live art created on-site will be available for purchase upon completion.

Other festival features include live art projects at the Sensible Reason Art Pavilion (www.sensiblereason.com) and various classes, experiences, and workshops in the Health & Wellness Pavilion. MGMF will also offer food, art, and craft vendors as well as a farmer’s market and campfire throughout the weekend.

Tickets to MGMF can be purchased online at www.mintgreenfestival.com. First tier tickets are currently on sale for $85.00, but prices will increase starting June 4, so buy your tickets early and save yourself some money! MGMF partner The Untz (www.TheUntz.com) is also giving away a free pair of tickets, enter for your chance to win here: http://theuntz.com/Mint-Green-Music-Festival-2012-Ticket-Giveaway.

Mint Green Music Festival is an interactive event that focuses on creating the ideal festival community. MGMF is currently accepting volunteers interested in helping to make the event a great success! To apply, please fill out the online volunteer form here: http://eepurl.com/j4hNv.

I Love This City - San Diego: Promo Video

I Love This City San Diego is the NEW electronic music festival event produced by Live Nation Entertainment and LED, making its debut Memorial Day weekend.

Wolfgang Gartner, Adrian Lux, and Madeon have just been added to the lineup. They will join headliner Skrillex at the one day festival event Sunday, May 27 at Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre. Also set to apprear are A-Trak, The Crystal Method (DJ Set), Dirtyloud, 12th Planet, The Twelves, Cookie Monsta, Brodinski, Nadia Ali, Lucky Date, MiMOSA, JDevil (Jonathan Davis of KORN), SOFI, Jaguar Skills, AC Slater, TJR, Flinch, The M Machine, No Body, and Deth Hertz on multiple stages.

Check out this brand new promo video set to the track "Make It Bun Dem" by Skrillex & Damien Marley, to help kick start your excitement!

For more info, visit: I Love This City - San Diego
Buy Tix Here!

Holy Ship 2013 Lineup

Website: www.holyship.com

Itinterary:

Day 1:
Depart Ft. Lauderdale - Welcome aboard! Get settled, meet your neighbors, explore the ship, grab a lounge chair and get ready to dance as the Sail Away Party kicks things off on the Pool Deck. Deep into the first night at sea there will be music everywhere you turn, so remember - this is a marathon, not a sprint! Take it all in stride... and get ready to party!

Day 2:
Nassau, Bahamas-The port town of Nassau is filled with the rich history and culture of the islands of the Bahamas. Once in port, you will see the vibrant colors of the buildings that are a staple part of the island way of life. Thousands of people visit the town everyday to shop, dine, and enjoy the tropical climate. Take a quick stroll from the port and you will be on Bay Street, which is filled with boutiques, retailers, restaurants and historical buildings. Or, venture over to Atlantis Paradise Island and spend the day enjoying the waterpark and casino at Nassau’s famed resort property. There's tons of fun to be had on this island, just make sure you save the energy to keep the party rockin’ all night!

Day 3:
Private Island, Bahamas- What could be better than a beach party on a private island in paradise? How about having top notch DJ's perform and all of your shipmates beside you! The white sandy beaches, majestic coconut palms and pristine waters set the backdrop for a day full of music and fun in the sun. Beach chairs, bikinis, barbecue favorites and more will set the vibe for the an over the top beach party in paradise. If you’re feeling adventurous, the island offers many activities to get your fix! Snorkeling (the fish are abundant and are easily seen in the clear waters), sailing, paddle-boarding, and kayaking are all available right off the beach through the Dive-In Program! You can even get a birds-eye view of the island while parasailing! Whatever you choose, this epic beach day is going to be one for the books!

Day 4:
Return to Ft. Lauderdale - The journey is over for now, but in many ways it's the dawn of a new day. The memories made on board will be second only to the friendships you have made with other cruisers - both are sure to last a lifetime! See you in 2014!

Klaypex - Podcast Episode 121

When Johnny Atar and Mark Emmanuel were jamming in their parents' basements, they didn't really foresee the viral sucess of their dance music, let alone the industry esteem they'd be enjoying as dubstep powerhouse Klaypex. Years of playing around in rock and pop acts that went nowhere lead to electronic experimentation. Atar's affinity for bass music spread to Emmanuel, and the pair started tinkering around in the genre. A few remixes and internetwide originals and Klaypex is one of the most sought-after acts in North America--all without playing a single live show!

Klaypex is coming off of the heels of the release of their latest album, Ready to Go. It's been burning up the charts of late, thanks to a variety of BPMs. Where Loose Dirt is mostly dubstep, the new album boasts a number of songs at higher tempos with a great deal of complextro thrown in for good measure. You can grab the album now, on Beatport.

Today's episode is brought to you by Summer Camp Music Festival. Headliners include EOTO, 12th Planet, Pretty Lights, Big Gigantic, Lotus and more. May 24-27 at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe, IL.

To download this podcast, right click Klaypex - Podcast Episode 121 and save the file.

To automatically receive future podcasts, subscribe to The Untz Podcast on iTunes

Minnesota Astral Projection EP out tomorrow (5/19)

Melodic but far from catatonic, Minnesota’s latest EP brings his unique sound back to his fans and newcomers alike. Astral Projection, releasing on May 19th, is another example of why if you haven’t been giving some attention to Minnesota you certainly should be. As a mix of hard bass lines and strong beats, Astral Projection is sure to impress all those who listen. This offering by Minnesota shows the maturing of an artist, and is nothing short of an out of body experience befitting the name Astral Projection.

Purchase on iTunes:

The Insomniac Discovery Project: Perform at EDC Las Vegas 2012

Electronic dance music is what it is because of the incredible underground talent constantly pushing the movement forward and the proliferation of the festival experience. The 16th annual Electric Daisy Carnival in Las Vegas aims to reflect the powerful creative undercurrent of aspiring DJ/producers, courtesy of the inaugural EDMbiz Conference.

All of you diehard DJs and producers out there who are constantly on the lookout for a better way to spread your sonic creations, you now have the chance to do so by performing at the world-renowned EDC Las Vegas. Enter the Discovery Project and EDMbiz may choose you among a selection of winners to dominate the brand new Discovery Stage at EDC Las Vegas.

Go to EDMbiz Website and Click on the "Discovery Project" Tab for ALL the Details!

Vote for TheUntz.com's Anand Harsh to host Mau5trap Podcast

Producer of The Untz Podcast Anand Harsh is in competition to become the next host of the brand new mau5trap podcast. The boutique label headed by none other than worldwide electro superstar Deadmau5 is looking to creative marketing agency Talenthouse to find themselves some outside talent. The label's monthly podcast will feature new music from its steadily growing roster of artists which includes Feed Me, James Njie, Tommy Lee & DJ Aero, among others.

Harsh has been producing The Untz Podcast for more than two years, spanning over a hundred episodes featuring interviews with the likes of Bassnectar, Pretty Lights, Avicii, NERO, RJD2, and hundreds of other movers and shakers in the electronic dance music industry.

This submission features an interivew with mau5trap artist SOFI, who discusses her stint at SXSW, collaborating with Moguai, and her affinity for the German language. To vote for Harsh, just click on the link below and support via Facebook or Twitter. You can also see a live taping of The Untz Podcast from the EDM Workshop at Summer Camp Music Festival, Friday at 4:30pm in the Church. Guests will include DJ SOLO, Wick-it the Instigator, and Spankalicious.

VOTE HERE:
http://www.talenthouse.com/creativeinvites/preview/aa8791d7fdf1f945bab651b2988d4dd4/426

Two Nights with Beats Antique in North Carolina (Photo Slideshow)

Photographer Shaun Hollingsworth recently took a trip with Beats Antique on a two-night run through his home state of North Carolina. Shooting their performances at the Cat's Cradle in Carrboro and the Neighborhood Theatre in Charlotte, Shaun was also able to capture some behind the scenes moments. The following slideshow was chosen by the man behind the lens himself. A unique glimpse of his Two Nights with Beats Antique in North Carolina.

Wobblesauce: What Does This Button Remix? EP Review

By: Natty Morrison

In the EDM world, it’s become standard for live bands to share stages and blog streams with DJs and producers. And with so many bands taking on the persona of a DJ, it’s refreshing to hear a DJ’s take on a live band. So it goes on the new EP from Boston livetronica jam band, Wobblesauce, What Does This Button Remix? featuring four remixes from some of the hottest up-and-comers from across the scene. The choice of producers is deliberate, as each tune features an artist firmly planted in their own musical style. From house to dub to electro to trance, WDTBR? is a aural sample platter of dance music.

On “Dirt Nasy,” Derek VanScoten takes the typically jazz-leaning tune for a ride through the house-o-sphere, trading in melodic riffing for fat-sounding keys and pulsing bass hits. Close your eyes and you’ll swear you’re in Chicago in 1985. That is, until he brings the guitar back. Then you’ll be in Chicago in ’93.

“Gravitron” is a successful experiment in dub and woozy beats, with plenty of glitch and oh-shit-here-it-comes swells all mixed in one big well of reverb. It also may be the only track in history to sample Emeril Lagasse, for which I will forever remember Space Jesus—not that Space Jesus is easily forgettable.

The song, “Ice Caps,” often sounds to me like a heavy STS9 track, so it’s wise that Outlet decided to stick with the bulging power chords and high pitched synth that lead the song in its aggressive charge.

The album’s final cut, “Not Quite Forgotten,” is a frantic electro workout by Supersillyus, featuring wet, drippy bass tones and stuttering robot vocals. The song is a furious end to a surprising and endlessly enjoyable release from Wobblesauce and their studio associates. As the track nears completion, Supersillyus raises the tempo and pacing to a thunderous crescendo, almost as though he wanted to feel what it felt like to be a live band. Even though electronic music may be a whole lot of emulating, What Does This Button Remix? shows it can also be a whole lot of fun.

Have a listen yourself and while you're at it grab the FREE download!

<a data-cke-saved-href="http://wobblesauce.com/album/what-does-this-button-remix" href="http://wobblesauce.com/album/what-does-this-button-remix">What Does This Button Remix? by Wobblesauce</a>

'I LOVE THIS CITY' San Diego Commemorates Memorial Day with Ticket Giveaway to the Military

‘I LOVE THIS CITY’ SAN DIEGO
COMMEMORATES MEMORIAL DAY
WITH 1,000 TICKET GIVEAWAY TO THE MILITARY

WOLFGANG GARTNER, MADEON & ADRIAN LUX ADDED
TO ALREADY STACKED LINEUP THAT INCLUDES SKRILLEX, A-TRAK & MANY MORE!

SUNDAY, MAY 27 AT CRICKET WIRELESS AMPHITHEATRE

I LOVE THIS CITY San Diego—the new electronic music festival event produced by Live Nation Entertainment and LED—has announced it will commemorate the Memorial Day holiday on which it is taking place on Sunday, May 27 by giving away 1,000 tickets for free to military personnel in the area.

Starting YESTERDAY, Wednesday, May 16 until supplies last, the men and women who serve our country in and around San Diego, the nation’s largest military city, will be able to obtain the tickets either via the USO or for the Navy Region through Single Sailor Liberty Centers located on various bases throughout San Diego.

Joining headliner Skrillex at the San Diego event taking place at Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre are new additions Wolfgang Gartner, Madeon and Adrian Lux, as well as previously announced talents A-Trak, The Crystal Method (DJ set), Dirtyloud, 12^th Planet, Cookie Monsta, The Twelves, Brodinski, Nadia Ali, Lucky Date, MiMOSA, JDevil (Jonathan Davis of Korn), SOFI, Jaguar Skills, AC Slater, TJR, Flinch, Terravita, The M Machine, No Body and Deth Hertz on multiple stages.

Tickets for I LOVE THIS CITY San Diego are on-sale now at livenation.com. The San Diego edition will be open to patrons 16 and over with ticket prices starting at $51 for a General Admission ticket (including parking, plus service fees) and $75 for a General Admission Pit Pass (plus applicable fees).

For up to date information regarding I LOVE THIS CITY San Diego, follow online at:
www.ilovethiscityfestivalSD.com
http://www.facebook.com/IlovethiscitySD
http://twitter.com/ILTCfestivalSD

Avi's Crack Slippers (#11)

We’re in a period of huge creative growth for electronic music producers. Given limited resources, we create and publish complete reviews for only a small percentage of these releases. As a result, I fear that incredible music and even straight up masterpieces “slip through the cracks” every day.

Each week, I will select some of my favorites. I’m busy holding down the fort, so no written reviews in this column. Just music--100% music--it’s all about the music. Got it?

Without further ado, I present to you Avi’s Crack Slippers (#11):

Teriszega- Dead Moose Sled (Extra Fluff)

KhemehK - Phoenix

MitiS - Parting

M.S.D - Calfornia

Burn Brighter - Toe Up

SAVOY & Heather Bright - We Are The Sun (Original Mix)

And don't forget to check out the last edition, Crack Slippers (#10)

Auto Body: Deadheads in Skinny Jeans Release "Say What You Will"

By: Anand Harsh

I’ve been talking about the lines between different scenes blurring for a while now. What’s this bro doing at the SBTRKT show? How did all these fashion students get into Papadosio? Why would you bring your mom to the Zeds Dead gig, and why is she getting down harder than you? These questions will never—and possibly should never—be answered. Music is music, and a party is a party. Don’t judge, yada yada. I can, however, point fingers at some culprits. Two such oddball Austinites pop into mind when I think of polar opposites in the industry. Felix Moreno and Tibaut Bowman both successfully elude pigeonholing, and in doing so have created what I’m going to go ahead and say is the dance album of the summer.

Auto Body is the sum total of the disparate pursuits of its members. Moreno’s live electro act Future Rock has been a staple in the jam band world for nearly a decade. Look no further than this month’s Summer Camp Music Festival in Chillicothe, IL, a jam-heavy event curated by moe. and Umphrey’s McGee featuring tie-dye mainstays Govt. Mule and Primus. The festival boasts no less than four sets from Future Rock and Bowman’s electro-ego DJ Thibault.

Meanwhile, with no Auto Body sets on the docket (officially), the pair will release their brand new album, Say What You Will, with no far out festival fanfare, seeing as the album is more suited to the band’s new base in Brooklyn. Or is it?
The title track is a blaring siren song ushering in the real synergy of every hip thing a twentysomething might be into. “Say What You Will” sounds like James Murphy introducing Rubblebucket to Neon Indian at a Wolfgang Gartner after party. It’s upbeat, it’s dancey, it’s groovy, and it’s luxurious. If you told me it was 200 calories per serving, I’d believe you. Sure, the economy’s in the shitter and being a minority in a sweatshirt can get you shot, but this is the kind of escapism desperate times crave. It comes as no surprise that Auto Body calls it their “most personal album,” an album borne out of loss and angst. Dance music is not by default devoid of heart.

“Can’t Forget You” has been circling the internet for a spell, it’s pop sensibility is like a magnet for the heartbroken masses who also like to hum to themselves for days after. Curiously, “Get Back” and “Holding Out” both evoke the spirit of the late Michael Hutchence. The former has a shimmery disco edge, while the latter is just so plainly 80’s it’s unbelievable. Bowman’s washed out cries balanced by cerebral synth stabs and perpetual kick-snare machine just hearken back to the INXS of yore. They’ve gotten a completely futuristic makeover, but they’re still holding on to that Day-Glo paint.

I’m not going to listen to the new Marilyn Manson album. It’s not a statement or anything; it’s just not going to happen. Like the fine folks at Video Hits 1, I love the 90’s, but I think some of that stuff is better left in the past—like pogs and Blossom. That being said, I bet Manson’s new album sounds a lot like album closer “The Drop.” Indict the chugging guitars, or the raspy rock vocals, it’s hard to pinpoint, but the evocative spirit is there.

By turns, Say What You Will vacillates between deeply emotional and (paradoxically) deeply superficial. Its sugary, hook-laden architecture belies the painful reality of the album’s creation. Produced skillfully and with total concentration on the part of Bowman and Moreno, the reality of the matter is that a crossover hit is not a white flag raised in surrender to creativity, but an extension of an artist’s ability to dig into his own originality and find that nugget to which people of all walks can relate. So bros, grab a brew, and moms, grab your teen in the black cigarette denim—the lines just got a little blurrier.

GRAB THE FREE DOWNLOAD!
http://www.autobodymusic.com

Ocean Beats: Eliot Lipp & Samples / The Central Social Aid & Pleasure Club (Santa Monica, CA) / 05.05.12

By: Charlie Walker

Cashing out the West Coast leg of their Spring Tour directly in line with Cinco De Mayo, Samples (aka Ben Samples) and Eliot Lipp brought the heat, sombreros, and glitchy bass beats to the Central Social Aid and Pleasure Club with their special guests Pool Party and Sublmnl Sound System.

Presented by The UNTZ, Ocean Beats, The Madero Group, and SUPERGOODMUSIC --- this spicy late night party went off with innovative beats, striking melodies, and elaborate rhythmic patterns from these heavy-hitting producers/DJs.

Samples, widely known for producing in the live remix project Fresh2Death, hails from Denver, CO. He brought that matchless rocky mountain swag to The Central’s stage with him when he dropped an undeniable set of soulful dub, funky house, and creative bass-heavy remixes that had the club’s dance floor celebrating proper-like.

It was Sample’s beats that had the crowd dipping low and getting primed for one of electronic music’s most vital artists. I caught up with him and he said, “I don’t write set lists”. What were a few of his highlights? Rage Against The Machine “Killing in the Name Of”, (Sample Remix)Beastie Boys “Sabotage” (Alex Metric Remix); and Samples “Drop Bombs”.

Known to EDM connoisseurs and weekend warriors alike, Eliot Lipp , who took the stage alongside “the kid” Samples to start it up and kept the energy at 180 proof. Not only did Lipp preview new-fangled sounds throughout his set, he hit his points of observable funk, hip-hop, and folk…all while demonstrating his intertwined passions for jazz-fusion, techno, and analogue gear.

Sounds were profound and clear, the light was right, and the electronic music scene was in full effect for those who were in attendance to what SUPERGOODMUSIC, The Central Social Aid and Pleasure Club, and The UNTZ had to serve up…no training wheels necessary.

Be sure to catch Samples and Eliot Lipp, who signed with Pretty Lights Music four days later, on tour this summer. They remain on a mission of being devoted to convey to you their freshest beats, turning inhabitants into fans from coast to coast.

The Unified Field: Sonic Bloom Pre-Party / Cervantes (Denver, CO) / 04.27-04.28.12

Featuring: Alex & Allyson Grey, Janover, Russ Liquid, The Floozies, ill-mannered, Griz, David Starfire & more

Photos By: Audible Imagery

Get EXCITED for SONIC BLOOM 2012 coming up June 21-24 in Georgetown, CO: www.sonicbloomfestival.com

Zomboy: Puttin' The Dirty in Disco

By: Ty Alen

Ever since releasing his Game Time EP just last August, Zomboy (née Joshua Mellody), has been at the top of some big-name EDM charts—literally every cut hit Beatport’s top twenty at the end of last year, second only to Skrillex, himself. Ironically enough, the three-time Grammy winner just so happens to be Zomboy’s biggest influence in the genre, and many of his songs are right up to par with the best in the business.

Although he has only recently jumped into the electronic music game, Mellody had been producing with various acoustic artists and bands for years, and even played drums and bass guitar in a few metal bands of his own. It was a scholastic venture at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford in the UK, along with some encouragement from his friends, that inevitably tossed Mellody into the world of electronic music production; and fans have been frolicking in the madness ever since.

Generally uncategorized, even by his own standards, Zomboy (a name birthed from a passion for the undead) likes to let the audience define his musical style they way they see fit, and many seem to argue that it is somewhere between Skrillex, Feed Me, and Zed’s Dead. While his style certainly echoes the hyped-up, head-banging sounds of Skrillex, the extra dirty, glitch-house style of Feed Me, and of course the hauntingly nightmarish noises created by Zed’s Dead, I like to let the music define itself and that seems to be accomplished by Zomboy’s “Dirty Disco”. The only way to really describe it is as an infusion of up-tempo, melodious house and electro being torn apart and then beaten to death by some dangerously destructive bass. This seems to be a recurring theme in his music and there aren’t many out there who are disappointed.

Featured below are a few of the hits off of Game Time, his remix to Dead C.A.T. Bounce’s “Movements”, as well as a teaser for new remix to Nadia Ali, Starkillers & Alex Kenji’s “Pressure”. We are extremely proud to introduce Zomboy for your listening pleasure, and we hope you all enjoy the madness! Check out his Facebook page for contact info and tour dates, and before you press play, turn up that bass!

I Love This City San Francisco Moved to Shoreline Amphitheatre

Due to production challenges surrounding the Lot at AT&T Park, the I LOVE THIS CITY electronic festival happening Friday, May 25 and Saturday, May 26 will now take place at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, CA.

By moving to Shoreline Amphitheatre, I LOVE THIS CITY is able to extend the event to 11:30 pm each night. Patrons 16 and over are now welcome.

Afrojack and Sebastian Ingrosso will now join Tiësto, David Guetta, Laidback Luke, Steve Aoki, and more than 40 of the best artists in EDM confirmed for this Northern California event on three stages throughout Shoreline Amphitheatre. The production will include a full massive experience including multiple art installations, over 4,000 sq. ft of LED screens, and over 80 of Vau De Vire Society’s most talented acrobats, aerialists, contortionists and burlesque performers.

Free charter bus service from The Lot at AT&T Park to and from Shoreline Amphitheatre will be provided throughout the day on both Friday and Saturday and a reservation service for those shuttles has been set up at www.ilovethiscityfestival.com. This reservation system is critical so that we provide enough shuttles for everyone.

Anyone who currently holds a ticket from The Lot will be given a wristband upon arrival at Shoreline that gives them priority access to the reserved seating areas and special side stage viewing areas at Shoreline Amphitheatre.

All VIP ticket holders for I LOVE THIS CITY will be given access to the VIP Terrace and VIP Accommodations at Shoreline Amphitheatre.

Based on the configuration of Shoreline Amphitheatre (reserved seating and lawn seating), new lawn ticket options are now available and priced as follows:

FRIDAY Single Day general admission lawn ticket = $50.00

SATURDAY Single Day general admission lawn ticket = $60.00

TWO DAY General Admission lawn ticket = $99.00

Reserved seating for both days is now sold out.

Tickets for I LOVE THIS CITY at Shoreline Amphitheatre are on sale now at www.ilovethiscityfestival.com, Livenation.com, Ticketmaster outlets or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

Friday’s lineup features performances by Afrojack, Sebastian Ingrosso, Duck Sauce, Steve Aoki, Chuckie, Datsik, James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem, AraabMuzik, Borgore, Brodinski, Claude VonStroke, Cookie Monsta, The Crystal Method, Cut Chemist, Dirtyphonics (live), FareOh, Holy Ghost!, Nervo, Oliver, Sh*t Robot, Sofi, Tenderlions, WhiteNoize and St. John.

Saturday’s lineup includes Tiesto, David Guetta, Laidback Luke, Excision, Feed Me, Apparat, BT, Doctor P., Dyloot, Felix Cartal, Harvard Bass, Helicopter Showdown, Holy F*ck, Jaguar Skills, Kill The Noise, Madeon, Miles the DJ, NiT GriT, Picture Plane and Nick G.

Doors for I LOVE THIS CITY at Shoreline Amphitheatre will open at 1:30pm each day.

Cold Blank - Podcast Episode 120

Chris Gaspar and Manny Luquin are no strangers to the dance music scene in Los Angeles. The pair have been DJ'ing and promoting around the city of angels for the better part of a decade, and witnessed some of the biggest acts of today back when they were doing house parties and warehouses. A lot has changed since then, and the duo now known as Cold Blank have found their sound, and created their brand with their label Burn the Fire.

Cold Blank just released its first single from the forthcoming album The Agenda, out in August on Burn The Fire. "Louder than Bombs is actually a dubstep tune, a surprising turn from the electro-house for which Chris Gaspar and Manny Luquin have come to be known. Regardless, the pair is spearheading the Wompapalooza festival in Michigan this weekend, and will be sure to bring the "womp" just as surely as they bring the untz.

Today's episode is brought to you by EDMBiz. Today is the last day to register for the conference at the early bird rate. Registrants will have access to reduced tickets for EDC Vegas.

To download this podcast, right click Cold Blank - Podcast Episode 120 and save the file.

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Kezwik: Tame EP Review

By: Jordan Calvano

A few years ago, Michael Jones met Aaron Simpson at a show and soon after began sending him music to get some feedback. What Jones did not initially know is that Simpson is the founder of Simplify Recordings, one of the pillars of the bass community.

Jones is now signed to Simplify, and releasing cataclysmic cuts at an incredible rate. The 16-year-old boy wonder out of Chico better known as Kezwik is a beast when it comes to dropping thunderous soundscapes that embody relentless passion and destructive capabilities. His dubbed out creations could instantly shift the earth’s tectonic plates. The monumental young producer has shown these abilities with colossal cuts like “Trigger” and “Gravity” off his Get Dropped EP, and on ferocious collaborations with Helicopter Showdown and Phrenik.

On his Tame EP, Jones takes his tumultuous sounds to a whole new level on a banging set of songs that will create an instant riot from any set of subs.

Opening up the jaw dropping EP is the title track, a pitched battle between roaring subs and soaring vocals. While no winner is decided, it is obvious from the beginning that Kezwik has stepped up on this release in a big way.

“The Traveler” is a thrill ride of a song that takes the listeners mind on a peaceful journey that eventually turns into a battle for their lives, but with this song as the background noise no one is complaining.

“Promise Me” is a remarkable cut that contains nostalgic vocal samples and a whole new danceable side to Kezwik’s instrumentations that soon transition into a sea of rambunctious synth lines and vaguely Egyptian bass tones.

The EP also features two collaborations that will have any crowd moving with ease. “Let Go” features the magnificent vocals of Mimi Page, and features monstrous soundwaves that are incredibly heavy and thrilling to the ears, while “PTFO” features Messinian spitting hot bars over Kezwik’s fresh, dubbed out melodies.

Tame is a monumental release from a young producer who will not let his age stop him from gaining massive accolades in his respective scene.

Mayhem at The Mid vs Bass Kitchen

By Anand Harsh

When it comes to EDM in Chicago, two nights are at the top of their game: Bass Kitchen and Mayhem at the Mid. Tonight, they go toe to toe in what should be an epic battle of huge bass and dirty beats. We spoke with Zach Partin and Martin Malafaktor, the mad men behind these epic nights to talk about successful promotion of dance music in the Windy City.

Bass Kitchen and Mayhem at the Mid have become two of the most consistent and heavy-hitting nights in the city of Chicago, both in the world of bass music and in the house/trance/electro, respectively. Did these nights grow organically out of a necessity to bring this type of EDM to Chicago, or was it more about organizing a disorganized scene so that people who were into progressive trance or dubstep could lock on and say "Yes, I know Mayhem/Kitchen will find the best artists in my favorite genre and all I have to do is show up and party my ass off?"

Mayhem at the MID started when the MID opened over a year ago, and has since housed everyone from Visionquest to James Murphy to Wolfgang Gartner to Skrillex to Classixx to Green Velvet to Car Craig. Literally every genre of electronic music has come through, and every generation at that. Mayhem prides itself on looking past the trends and what is in the Beatport Top Ten.

As for Bass Kitchen, it grew with the rise of dubstep and bass music. It was definitely a much more organic process, one that filled a void in Chicago. Our first show was at the Subterranean, a 350 capacity club, with NERO DJ'ing. From there, the scene just took off and we've been lucky enough to host artists such as Kill the Noise, 12th Planet, Figure, Killabits, Foreign Beggars, Koan SOund, Downlink, and most recently, we had our largest Bass Kitchen at the Congress Theater with Skream & Benga and Feed Me.
Check out the video here: http://youtu.be/P0_r5WNjeUM

Both Mayhem at the Mid and Bass Kitchen, by necessity of the size of the rooms they occupy, cater to a specific "level" of artist. Obviously, your Rusko's and Dash Berlin's will be swooped up by React Presents at The Congress (which is great, because you're all one big family), but at these shows, you have the opportunity to cultivate new artists and introduce them to the city of Chicago. Is that part of the fun, or at least part of the impetus behind these niche nights?

Yes definitely. We strive to stay ahead of the curve in all of these genres.

On that same tip, I'm wondering how Logan Square Auditorium and Bottom Lounge for Bass Kitchen, and The Mid for Mayhem work on an aesthetic level. How do the physical structures lend themselves to the atmosphere you're trying to create for two definitively different vibes?

Bottom Lounge and Logan are great for the BASS music, as they're kind of grimey.
Still great venues though and we love them.

The Mid is more upscale, but that doesn't stop MAYHEM from getting down!

Years and years of promotion in the city predated these relatively new nights. Was it still a struggle to get them off the ground, or were you good as gold from the start because you had a built-in budget, relationships with artists and their representatives, and advanced promotional networks already in place?

Both nights have taken a lot of work from the promoters, artists, staff, and Chicago. We hope that our respective fans trust us enough now to come out for the events, even if they don't know the artist.

Because Chicago is such a vast metropolitan area, you're going to have a giant pool of people of all stripes who love all different types of stuff. I'm sure you're happy with the numbers you're doing, but how do you go about busting into new demos and new markets and trying to reel in people who may not ordinarily think to attend an EDM show on any particular night of the week.

PROMOTION PROMOTION PROMOTION! Always getting creative. But if the music is there, all it takes is for one person to tell another person, they come and have a good time, and it snowballs from there.

Everything is cyclical, and because you've been in the game for a while, I imagine you can see the writing on the wall before anyone else. Is the electronic music scene a bubble like the DotCom boom or real estate a couple of years ago, or is this the golden age (or resurgence) of dance music? Are you seeing things get bigger and bigger? Lineups for both North Coast and Spring Awakening must be some indication of that...

Both MAYHEM and BASS KITCHEN don't think Electronic Music is going anywhere anytime soon.

Tell me a bit about this show. Bass Kitchen going head-to-head with Mayhem. What's the inspiration? What kind of crowd are you expecting for a show that's really giving audiences a wide swath of the electronic music spectrum?

New Zealand's MT EDEN and Toronto's the KILLABITS reached out to us at the same time as Brazil's DIRTYLOUD and Chicago's own LUCKY DATE. Given the mad men behind both the nights, we wanted to combine forces and see what happened at Chicago's favorite dance music destination, the MID. A night of Bass filled MAYHEM is definitely going to happen, and we can't wait!

You can get you tix here!

Eliot Lipp & Samples Ocean Beats Video Recap

Recently The Madero Group took their Ocean Beats party on the road with Eliot Lipp & Samples for a 3-Night Mini Tour.

Here's an excellent video recap of the tour through the eyes of Michael Schlink,
alongside a mash up of Eliot Lipp's original "Beamrider" and Samples remix of "Beamrider".

Skrillex: Full Flex Express

By: Jordan Calvano
Recently, Sonny Moore (known universally as Skrillex) created a set on his SoundCloud of ten originals and remixes that he has released over the past year. Why he decided to do this we may never know, but as usual, when Moore does something, people take notice.

The Los Angeles-based producer has quickly become a staple of the American dance music scene, and lately across the whole world. Whether you love him or love to hate him, you know who he is. Just by looking at his Full Flex Express set it is obvious that people want to get a piece of his veteran production abilities, which include groundbreaking collaborations with talented artists stemming from genres all across the board like Damian Marley, Kaskade, The Doors, 12th Planet, and of course his beautiful girlfriend, Ellie Goulding. Not to mention his massive remixes of Nero and Benny Benassi’s “Cinema,” which won him Best Remixed Recording at this years Grammy’s.

Moore is also packing up his bass propelled, private passenger train and taking his massive tunes and critically acclaimed crew with him North of the border on a tour that is definitely going to be one to remember. While it will only last a week and a half and make stops in six major Canadian cities, it is the lineup that is truly something to drool over. The Full Express Tour will feature three label heads (Skrillex, Diplo, Pretty Lights), so you know they will be pulling out all the stops. If Aoki was popping bottles, throwing cakes, and pouring juice everywhere on The Deadmeat Tour, we can only imagine what these three will do. Not to mention jaw dropping performers like KOAN Sound, Grimes, and TOKiMONSTA, who will also be jumping on the train to drop bombs with the rest of the crew.

It seems safe to the say that Skrillex has come a long way since playing for crowds of a few hundred people in small venues with From First To Last when he was a teen. Moore and crew are embarking July 13th via train, because where they’re going, they don’t need roads.

Psymbionic Releases 'Ride With Me' VIP Mix

As a thank you for helping the Ride With Me EP break the top 20 on Beatport's dubstep album charts, Austin, Texas producer Psymbionic has put together an alternate take of the title track in true 'VIP' form. This free download explores the innate connection between slower instrumental hip hop and dubstep, complete with large 808 hits and broken drum patterns. Just as the tune is sinking in, Psymbionic flips it on it's head with a healthy dose of glitchy yet melodic sound design. Fans of labels such as Dub Police and SMOG should definitely give this track a thorough listen.

Ride With Me is the sophomore EP fom Psymbionic, which was released in April on MalLabel and contains two original productions as well as remixes from Starkey, Truth and Omega.

EDMbiz: Last Day for Early Bird Registration

OVERVIEW

As part of Electric Daisy Carnival Week (“EDC Week”), Insomniac is launching its inaugural “EDMbiz” conference on June 5, 6 and 7 at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas (Electric Daisy Carnival is June 8 – 10 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.). EDMbiz will feature 2 days of progressive, insightful, and entertaining panels, keynotes, and presentations with the top managers, agents, promoters, artists, labels, publishers, producers, advertising agencies, brand execs, and technology platforms in EDM, along with 3 nights of exclusive Insomniac nightclub and pool parties.

PURPOSE

With the popularity of EDM growing rapidly and both Wall Street and Madison Avenue embracing EDM and seeking a deep interest, EDM may be at a tipping point. EDMbiz will bring together the entire global EDM ecosystem and facilitate relevant discussion and debate addressing the most important topics and issues specific to EDM including best practices, advertising and branding, licensing, social media, DIY, technology, festivals, direct-to-fan, and sustaining community and credibility with massive growth.

THE FESTIVAL

The first Electric Daisy Carnival took place in 1997 at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles for 4000 people. Now, 16 years later, EDC is (and has been for many years) the largest electronic music dance festival in North America. EDC 2012 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway is expecting a sell-out crowd of more than 300,000 over three days with the most elaborate production imaginable and the world’s greatest EDM artists including David Guetta, Tiesto, Kaskade, Avicii, Afrojack, Benny Benassi, Bassnectar, and so many others. In addition to the Las Vegas festival, EDC is expanding its reach in 2012 with an EDC festival at MetLife Stadium in New York (home of the NY Giants and NY Jets) on May 18 – 20.

THE COMPANY

Insomniac produces innovative music festivals and events enhanced by state-of-the-art lighting and sound design, large-scale art installations, interactive circus and theatrical performances, boundary-pushing special effects and pyrotechnics and fan participation. Fan safety and the quality of our fans’ experience are the company’s top priorities. Insomniac’s premier annual event, Electric Daisy Carnival, is one of the largest, most spectacular music festivals in the North America. Insomniac has produced more than 250 music events for more than 2,500,000 concertgoers in California, Nevada, Colorado, Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico. Founded by Pasquale Rotella, Insomniac has been based in Los Angeles since it started in 1993.

Golden Toast: I'd Like To Make A Toast EP Review

By: Jordan Calvano

One incredibly important aspect about producers in today’s current bass culture is the ability to cross genres. While it can be a risky move to change up your style, it is something that can pay off immensely if done right

This appears to be what Ananda Goldsmith does best. The Ashland, Oregon based producer, best known as DJ Toast/Golden Toast, is an absolute menace when it comes to grinding out eccentric instrumentations that will leave any listener breathless with each release. His monstrous soundscapes are aesthetically pleasing to the ears; yet simultaneously possess the capabilities to rock any speakers his mystical cuts course through. This can be heard on jaw dropping original cuts like the ones off his LacToast Intolerant EP, which includes the track “Blue Jay” released by Mal Label Music, and on bodacious swith ups of artists like Thievery Cooperation, R.Kelly, and M∆DE::IN::HEIGHTS.

On Goldsmith’s I’d Like To Make A Toast EP, self-released on IBS Records, the young producer strays away from the usual bangers and gives his fans something to dance about on a release full of groovy midtempo madness.

Opening up the tenacious set of songs is “Can Ya Dig it,” which is a rambunctious jam featuring confident bass lines that riddle their way through an armada of effervescent synth bursts. Throughout this song listeners are asked a crucial question that Cyrus states in the classic movie The Warriors with their obvious answer being yes, we can dig it.

“Baby Blast” features a crunchy groove that layers perfectly under a set of pivotal snare hits, while “Funk Blastin” stays true to its title and delivers a massive burst of funk right to the listeners dome while also including a series of ominous, renaissance style string samples.

“Criminal” is a contagious jam that possesses incredibly eerie vocal samples and will instantly transport any listeners mind on a thrill ride of an unconscious journey, propelled of course by the songs charismatic glitch-hop presence.

“Ninja Pilgrim” features a slew of destructive dub lines and the production of fellow Ashland Producer Aeolus (Caleb Morrison), while “Krunch” is a bouncy tune that features more immersive string samples and an overall buttery yet chaotic aura.

I’d Like To Make A Toast is an essential EP for anyone who can appreciate finely tuned midtempo cuts that were meant to get a crowd on their feet. Be sure to check out Goldsmith perform with ill.Gates on May 18th in Ashland if you’re lucky enough to live in the Southern Oregon area.

Pretty Lights Drops New Track and NYE Recap Video

Pretty Lights is at it again, dropping the brand new track, You Get High, a bouncy soulful tune riddled with percussion and that signature Pretty Lights style. The popular music discovery website Grooveshark has the exclusive single available as a FREE download on their site. What's better than that? The crew at RadioEditAV have also released a corresponding video recap from Pretty Lights' MASSIVE 2-Night New Year celebration in Colorado that closed out his incredible year.

Sounds like this is the last "sample-collage produced track" we'll be hearing from Pretty Lights, while he puts the finishing touches on his upcoming album, which is apparently made completely from self-made vinyl. We're looking forward to that one, and you know we'll keep you posted. For now, grab the new single and check out this incredible video below.

Download the FREE Track Here!

Justice / Roseland Theater (Portland, OR) / 4.24.12

By: Gracie Roberts

Portland’s Roseland Theater was given the honor of hosting Justice, the highly influential electronic duo hailing straight from Paris, France. With only a select number of live performances in the U.S., Portland was extremely lucky to house these two Frenchmen who have had a remarkable impact on the EDM scene for over a decade.

The show opened with Breakbot, another French producer and DJ whose star continues to rise. Born Thibaut Berland, this 31-year-old artist has made a name for himself through his array of original content and catchy remixes. Last year, Breakbot oversaw the release of three albums: Let The Children Techno, The Bee Sides, and Fantasy. Each was released under Ed Banger Records, a French electronic label that features prominent names such as Cassius, SebastiAn, and Justice on its roster.

Breakbot won over the crowd with his funk-filled beats and electro-centered sound. Running a bit ahead of schedule, the opening set ended around 9:30 p.m., leaving audience members hungry for more. Luckily, the recess after Breakbot’s set was relatively short, and soon enough, the Roseland’s lights went dark for the show’s main act.

Justice appeared before the Portland crowd behind their archetypal stage setup, complete with the dominating symbol of a golden cross sitting at center stage. As Justice opened with “Genesis,” the stage slowly expanded into a platform that reached the very edges of the Roseland’s walls. As the duo progressed with their set, the theater’s light show synced perfectly with the music, putting the audience in an increasingly deeper trance. Popular tracks like “Phantom (pts. I and II),” “Civilization,” “We Are Your Friends,” and multiple reworkings of the famed “D.A.N.C.E” dazzled the Portland crowd. With their contagious onstage energy and confident demeanor, Justice managed to keep the two floors of the Roseland Theater shaking with dancing fans until the very end of their set. Concluding their performance, the two men stood on top of the stage’s speakers with fists raised in the air while the audience unceasingly applauded their talent.

Justice is composed of Gaspard Augé and Xavier de Rosnay, who first joined together in 2003. The pair came to prominence with their remix of Simian’s “Never Be Alone,” which resulted in their addition to the Ed Banger Records family. Nine years later, Augé and de Rosnay pride themselves on two studio albums, countless remixes, and a slew of awards they have achieved for their distinctive musical style.

Every minute of Justice’s Portland performance was eaten up by the adoring crowd members. After experiencing firsthand the wall-shaking party that rocked the Roseland Theater, it was clear to fans how fortunate they were to have encountered the two masterminds behind the Justice legend.

Dubba Jonny: Dubstep's New Best Friend

By: Ty Allen

While they formed back in December of 2009, Dubba Jonny’s Brian Dunn and Nick Scott have been flying under the American radar until only recently. This is primarily because they are from the southern coast of England, Bournemouth specifically, and people over there know the duo quite well. They have been selling out shows and topping charts for a while now, and have become known for their love of house-party gigs and live drum sets (courtesy of Scott), and of course their insane abilities to drop some seriously profound tracks that frequently leave listeners in sheer astonishment.

The duo’s adventurous music career all started when Dunn was playing around with Fruity Loops Studio in his early teens. The two were introduced at school one year, and began collaborating on some primitive sketches. Lucky for us bass-heads they chose to do elevate and escalate their partnership, and as a result, have been utterly destroying speakers with their massive drops, gritty subs, and intense synths, which are often embedded in a sea of harmonious vocals.

The best way to describe the collective efforts of the two musicians is simply one word: “wow.” Each song has the ability to send chills down your spine, just make sure you have a serious sound-system and some seriously loud music fans. And, not only will Dubba’s tunes appeal to the glitch-loving, dark-bass addicts out there, but many of their songs are incredibly well suited for dance, throwing down excellent drum work while boasting an overall hyped-up feel.

We’ve gone ahead and posted a few of Dubba’s SoundCloud tracks below. Two of which are recently released samples, and all of which expose the undeniable skills between the two artists, but don’t feel the need to stop there! Since recently developing their own label, Liyan Records, the two have pumped out plenty more incredible tracks released around the net, and even more available for purchase. So, if you want to help Dubba out with their dream of making tons of music all day, every day, then mosey on over to Beatport, and on your way, go ahead and crank up that bass!

http://soundcloud.com/dubbajonny

Paper Diamond: Wavesight EP Review

By: Jordan Calvano

Alex Botwin (Paper Diamond) has been doing his thing these last few years. The Boulder based producer, who also heads Elm & Oak records, is an all out gunslinger when it comes to unloading clock stopping soundscapes from his massive collection of fully loaded, bass filled double barrels.

He has crafted a sound that is incredibly unique, yet still perfectly exemplifies the music that is being unleashed from his respective movement. This is defined by a charismatic hip-hop mentality that combines so well with Botwin’s soulful bass lines and energetic drum patterns, which are like instant remedies to anyone tuned in. This aesthetic detail is ubiquitous on Levitate, released last year via Pretty Lights Music and Elm & Oak, and on definitive remixes of critically acclaimed artists like Kanye West, The Weeknd, and SBTRKT.

On Wavesight, released by Diplo’s monumental record label Mad Decent, Botwin takes a gigantic leap in his ongoing quest for world domination with a set of limitless tunes that are hotter than the inside of an active volcano.

“Turn the Lights Off” kicks in immediately with a series of confident, dubby bass lines which layer perfectly under the sensual vocals of Nasimiyu, and is a steezy summer anthem that will have any listener riding with the windows down on all their bass filled summer adventures. This is the first of several collaborations to be released by Botwin, who has been working with a laundry list of talented vocalists, producers, and hip-hop artists.

“Can We Go Up” has been floating through the speakers of many avid Paper Diamond fans these last few months, but finally gets its official release in a big way. It’s a tumultuous banger that features eccentric synth lines and catchy vocals that eventually transition into a slowed down, dubbed out drop that is unlike most songs from PD.

“AirLift” is an instant classic that contains vicious instrumentations along with a slew of mouth watering high-pitched rhythms, which will remind listeners of eclectic tracks from Paper Diamond’s debut release.

Wavesight is a speaker surging release that will move any crowd immersed in its contagious sound waves and delicious vocal bursts. Be sure to catch Botwin tearing up the summer circuit at riotous festivals across America like Lollapalooza, Electric Forest, Starscape, and Symbiosis.

Michal Menert: Even If It Isn't Right Review

By: Kerry McNeil

Download the album for FREE: http://www.prettylightsmusic.com/therecordlabel

Two years after his 2010 debut, Dreaming Of A Bigger Life, Pretty Lights Music prodigy and Colorado-based producer Michal Menert has released his follow up full of more crate-digging compositions with Even If It Isn’t Right. A meticulously crafted sequel as well as another peek into Menert’s life story, Even If It Isn’t Right blends hip hop vibes, electro, and many more styles with dozens of samples from records Menert dug up to create the 27-track release. As Menert explains in the album’s liner notes, “Even the 100+ minute running time of this album may not be ‘right’ by traditional standards, but it’s what I felt was needed to tell the story of my life since my last release.” And throughout the album’s run time of just over an hour and a half, Menert’s soulful samples, matching funk beats, and strong grasp of exactly how to arrange them together tells the listener everything they need to know about his growth since his first album.

Appropriately introducing himself on the album’s first track “Hi,” Menert’s samples tell the listener that he has been a writer, arranger, and producer for around fifteen years. Transitioning into a bass drum heavy beat, a floating string melody, smooth sax, and repeating vocal sample, “Hi” flows into the plucky string melody of “The Same Disease,” introducing the strong hip hop vibe of the album with more bass drum, a driving synth melody, and choppy vocals.

“Cassiopeia,” relies on a simple bass drum beat, trickles of a piano melody, gritty synths, and slightly melancholy vocals that ask, “Who can I turn to?” Telling a similar tale of isolation, “The Golden Rule” features a vocal sample that repeats “I’m so lonesome all the time,” against frenzied strings and a hurried flute melody, melding flawlessly into the richness of the strings on “Take All You Want To,” with a repeating vocal sample that adds to a punchy drum beat.

Echoing vocals, buzzing synths, and a sparkling synth melody come together on “Out Of This World,” which was co-produced by SuperVision—attributed in Menert’s liner notes as having “put the finishing touches and magic sprinkles” on the track. “Solar Overdrive” feels aptly spacey with rising and falling synths and the effortlessly airy vocals of Chantel Mead, the wife of the track’s co-producer, Derek VanScoten.

“Words Unspoken” starts with Eastern-influenced strings and a funky guitar riff, expanding to include a snappy beat, and more of Menert’s favored echoing vocal samples. Adding a bit of wobbly synths here and there, “Words Unspoken” moves a bit away from the heavy hip-hop vibe of some of the album into more bluesy territory and begins a sequence that becomes “Drift By.” Picking up where “Words Unspoken” left off, “Drift By” integrates steadily tapped cymbals, a stronger synth presence, and a reverberating flute melody intertwined with each layer of the track.

Menert picks up the pace with more high energy tracks like “The Wind And The Walls,” and “Bloodletting,” both with a hearty helping of up-tempo drums and quicker synth melodies that are part of several intriguing layers on each track.

“The Ride,” “Still Dreaming,” and “Winter’s End,” transition the album back toward the hip-hop side of the spectrum with more hard hitting beats, while tracks like “A New Beginning,” and “Sky City” stick to the more synthy electro side of the spectrum—though “A New Beginning” ends sounding straight rock ‘n roll for the last minute—giving the album a lot of diversity that manages to come together into one cohesive album.

“Remember,” which was also co-produced by Derek VanScoten, is a standout on the album, with an addictive beat and extra instrumentation from Avi Dvorin, along with strong female vocals that drive the track forward.

“New Heights” and “After The Rain,” end the 27-track long epic on a more uplifting note, as the titles suggest, with jazzy piano, guitar, and vocals on “New Heights” and a resounding chorus of “life goes on,” on “After The Rain” set to a bouncy beat and cheerful horns.

Menert manages to make an album with such diverse styles and sounds, all the while making it flow together as a collective piece. Going from themes of loneliness at the beginning of the album to more positive ideas of life moving forward at its end, Menert certainly has a lot to be happy about after releasing such an accomplished follow-up to his debut solo album.

CounterPoint Music Festival Announces Lineup

CounterPoint Music and Arts Festival, a new three-day music and arts festival in Atlanta, Georgia this September 27 - 29, 2012 has announced its first round of performers.

The 50+ performer lineup at the multi-stage festival includes: Bassnectar; Skrillex; Pretty Lights; AVICII; Steve Angello; M83; Excision; Laidback Luke; Alesso; Crystal Castles; Big Boi; Zeds Dead; Ghostland Observatory; Wale; Big Gigantic; A-Trak; Atmosphere; Toro Y Moi; Lotus; Feed Me; MiM0sa; Washed Out; Zedd; R3HAB; Theophilus London; Reptar; 12th Planet; Beats Antique; Super Mash Bros; Emancipator; Poliça; Alvin Risk; Savoy; Zoogma; Paper Diamond; Treasure Fingers; 3LAU; Gramatik; Archnemesis; Lance Herbstrong; The M Machine; Michal Menert; Mr. MFN eXquire; Tokimonsta; SuperVision; Com Truise; Paul Basic; Nobody Beats The Drum; Nick Catchdubs; Mayhem; Audrey Napoleon; Street Lurkin; Mantis; Sorted; DJ Mel and Skrause. Additional details about this year's festival will be announced in the coming weeks.

"I am really looking forward to the Atlanta crowd," states burgeoning Swedish DJ AVICII. "I will definitely bring it for them."

The multi-stage festival with camping options will be held at the location of 2007's The Echo Project, a 350-acre, scenic Chattahoochee river front property located approximately 30 minutes travel time from Downtown Atlanta, Georgia. CounterPoint plans on bringing the city to the pristine festival site. Elements such as preferred viewing areas, VIP bottle service, multiple VIP levels, luxury camping options, travel packages, and car service will be available. Daily express shuttle service to and from Atlanta and Athens as well as day parking will also be offered for those guests not wishing to camp onsite. Long distance shuttles with stops in all the major metro areas, within 7 hours of the event, are also being provided. Tickets to CounterPoint go on sale Friday May 11th at 10 a.m. Eastern Time at www.counterpointfestival.com or by calling 1-888-512-SHOW (7469). Advanced Price 3-Day Passes will be available for $165, while supplies last, and are inclusive of all service fees. Once tickets at the Advance $165 price sell-out, Regular Price 3-Day passes will be available for $185. All-inclusive VIP Experience packages are available, starting at $365 and $565 for the VIP Platinum Experience package.

Dieselboy returns to Indy for RISE

Indymojo is bringing Dieselboy back to Indianapolis for the first time in 2 years as part of its monthly RISE event at 247 Skybar downtown. The American drum & bass legend will be joined by Chicago's Justin Long, and a slew of DJs covering the spectrum from dubstep to techno. The three rooms of Skybar will be filled with acts like Cyberjive, Mutiny, Psynapse, Adam Jay, Angel Alanis, and many more. Herm Productions will be holding down the lights, so you know this is gonna be big!

Friday, June 1st
247 Skybar (Above Taps & Dolls and Crackers Comedy Club - downtown)
247 S. Meridian St

Event Page:
http://indymojo.com/event/8195/rise-with-dieselboy-and-justin-long/
Facebook Event Page:
http://www.facebook.com/events/392409307465269/

Wick-it the Instigator: The Weathermaker EP Review

By: Jordan Calvano

As today’s bass culture continues to progress, it has become evident that artists stemming originally from genres all across the board are leaving their respective scenes for the greener pastures of EDM.

One explosive example of this phenomenon is seen in the musical career of Wick-it the Instigator. Nashville’s Andrew Owsley has been producing and performing since 2004, but originally found his roots in the art of turntablism and hip-hop. Although over the last few years he has been carefully crafting a distinctive sound that is incredibly creative and often riddled with samples galore, he is best known for his massive Quentin Tarantino opus Grindhouse Basterds, and phenomenal revamps of artists like Figure, Dr.Dre, and Michael Jackson.

On The Weathermaker EP, Wick-it bounces out a series of monumental original cuts that demonstrate a whole new edge to his production capabilities while still fitting with his overall goal of making music, and that is to rock the crowd till they can be rocked no more.

Opening up the release is the title track, which strikes with the captivating roar of thunder and a series of low bass tones that eventually transition into a slew of bubbly soundcapes. Soon enough we are hit with the classic Snoop Dogg line “Twist another sweet and bob to the beat,” which will quickly get the party started.

“Grey Sky” is an ominous slow jam that contains jazzy instrumentations, friendly dub lines, and the mesmerizing vocals of Heather Jones that together create an incredibly memorable and addicting song.

“Gucci Gurl” kicks off with vocal samples from Gucci Mane and an unlimited supply of serotonin heightening synth lines, while “A Better Place” is a fast paced monster of a tune that will have audiences tearing up any dance floor.

Closing up the release is “Slanky,” which is a vocal infused masterpiece of a song containing slow dub lines layered in between immersive string samples.

The Weathermaker is an adventurous, bass-fueled journey that will please any longtime fan of Wick-it with its confident synth lines and eclectic vocal samples.

Bogart's (Cincinnati) Preview: Flux Pavilion / Kaskade

Located just off the Bearcat campus and north of Cincinnati's bustling downtown, Bogart's has been bringing the best in national and international performance acts to The Queen City for 30 years. Originally built as a theater before the turn of the last century, this massive club features three levels, six bars, and a capacity of more than 1500 for some of the hottest acts in rock, pop, country, comedy, and more. In a city known for its legendary funk and soul roots, Bogart's is making a play for the hearts of the newest generation of music fans--and it's doing so through dance.

Bogart's has renewed its mission to bring the biggest EDM acts through Cincy, and its starting on the 19th with none other than the bass cannon himself, Flux Pavilion. When you've been sampled by Kanye and Jay-Z, you know you're doing something right. One of the UK's hottest stars, and a living legend of bass, Flux Pavilion will be joined by up-and-comers who themselves have been burning up the dance charts. Brown & Gammon, Terravita, and BASS Slangas will be joining Joshua Steele has he does his best to shake the historic building off its foundation--with no permanent damage, we hope--just a few rattled ribcages.

Purchase Tickets to Flux Pavilion on 5/19: http://bit.ly/IJQacd

Dance music enthusiasts know the name Kaskade all too well. Ryan Raddon has been on a tear; being one of the most successful North American trance, electro, and house artists of our time is a difficult task to maintain. He's bringing his Freaks of Nature Tour to Bogart's on June 19th. Featuring Alvin Risk and Fareoh, fans are already preparing themselves to party all night and call in sick to work the next day. While Kaskade was busy playing outdoor amphitheaters all last summer on the wildly popular IDentity Festival Tour, the Bogart's show will give clubbers the opportunity to enjoy a megastar in a much more intimate setting. This one will be special.

Purchase Tickets to Kaskade on 6/19: http://bit.ly/K8eh7r

This is just the tip of the iceberg for this club and dance fans across southern Ohio. The revolution is now, and Bogart's is at the epicenter. Stay tuned to their concert calendar and grab your tickets at bogarts.com.

ABAKUS: Futurism (Part 1) Review

By: Jordan Calvano

Russ Davies has a lot going on for him. He produces synthetic soundcapes under the moniker Cinnamon Chasers, which solidified him the top video spot at SXSW in 2010 with the song “Luv Deluxe,” and releases music with his father, who happens be Dave Davies of seminal British rock act The Kinks.

Davies also develops eccentric musical landmines under the name Abakus, and seems to be blowing up every single track he releases upon the world. The London based producer tends to create harmonious instrumentations that will quickly send its listeners on a mind opening, unconscious journey propelled by definitive crescendos and limitless drum patterns. He has shown this mystical craftsmanship on powerful releases like Beyond the Fields, Prisms, and We Share the Same Dreams, which all tell magical bass filled stories.

On Futurism (Part 1), Davies takes his musical creations to a whole new level on an immersive release that will instantly captivate the soul of anyone tuned in.

Opening up the release is “Abtech,” which features an unlimited supply of low bass tones that bounce their way through crowd pleasing vocal samples and tumultuous snare hits.

“Obnox” is a rhythmic gem that contains light, dubbed out soundwaves patterned perfectly in-between effervescent synth grooves, while “On Film” is a funky and psychedelic cut that features an emotive atmosphere and nostalgic vibe to it. The glitched out and rambunctious vibe of “Phantom” will wake the minds of its listeners, but more importantly gives fans a glimpse of the new glitch-hop mind frame of the Abakus sound.

The most direct indication of Davies’ new focus is “Lazerbass,” a track purposefully targeted at the new bass culture. This doesn’t seem like a pandering move, as the trajectory feels calculated from the start. Abakus is simply propelling his sound in brand new directions.

Futurism (Pt 1) is a marvelous set of songs that are, at once, immensely peaceful and striking to the ears.

Kaskade at Ultra Music Festival 2012

Today, Kaskade is releasing an HD recap of his Ultra Music Festival performance and experience. This video allows you to go behind the scenes with Kaskade and travel with him around Miami. Kaskade also offers a personal interview in which he discusses the current state of EDM, his past experiences in Miami, and his excitement for his Ultra Muisc Festival performance.

FREAKS OF NATURE SHOW DATES (TICKETS: www.freaksofnaturetour.com):

DATE	MARKET	VENUE
Sat-May-26	Las Vegas	The Chelsea Ballroom @ The Cosmopolitan
Fri-Jun-15	New York	MCU Park (Cyclone Stadium)
Sat-Jun-16	Montreal	Olympia Theatre
Sun-Jun-17	Ottawa	CE Centre
Tue-Jun-19	Cincinnati	Bogart's
Wed-Jun-20	Cleveland	House of Blues
Fri-Jun-22	Worcester	DCU Exhibition Hall
Sat-Jun-23	Hartford	Comcast Theatre
Tue-Jun-26	Charleston	Music Farm
Thu-Jun-28	Philadelphia	Festival Pier
Fri-Jun-29	Baltimore	1st Mariner Arena
Sat-June-30	Gibbons	Boonstock Festival
Sun-July-01	Toronto	The Flats at M.C.A.
Wed-Jul-11	Charlotte	Fillmore
Thu-Jul-12	Atlanta	Tabernacle
Fri-Jul-13	Tampa	1-800-Ask-Gary Amphitheatre Expo Hall
Sat-Jul-14	Miami	Bayfront Amph
Mon-Jul-16	Nashville	Limelight
Wed-Jul-18	Kansas City	Uptown Theater
Thu-Jul-19	Oklahoma City, OK	Diamond Ballroom
Fri-Jul-20	Houston	Bayou Music Center
Sat-Jul-21	Dallas	Verizon Theatre
Mon-Jul-23	San Antonio	Cowboys
Tue-Jul-24	El Paso	Buchanan's
Wed-Jul-25	Albuquerque	Sunshine Theater
Thu-Jul-26	Tucson	Rialto
Fri-July-27	Los Angeles	Staples Center
Sat-July-28	San Francisco	Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Mon-Jul-30	Aspen	Belly Up
Tue-July-31	Park City	Park City Live
Wed-Aug-01	Denver	Red Rocks
Fri-Aug-03	Indianapolis	Egyptian Room
Sat-Aug-04	Detroit	Fillmore
Sun-Aug-05	Chicago	Lollapalooza
Tue-Aug-07	Spokane	Knitting Factory
Wed-Aug-08	Sacramento	Memorial Auditorium
Thu-Aug-09	Portland	Roseland Ballroom
Fri-Aug-10	Seattle	Wamu Theater
Sat-Aug-11	Vancouver	PNE Forum
Sun-Aug-12	Victoria	9one9
Mon-Aug-13	Boise	Knitting Factory
Wed-Aug-15	Saskatoon	Tequila Nightclub
Thu-Aug-16	Calgary	Flames Central

Revolvr - Podcast Episode 119

An unlucky bit of corporate malfeasance sent Touvan Sughiarto back to his first love: music. After taking a day job out of college playing entrepreneur in the high stakes world of internet startups, his renegade CEO ran off with millions of dollars, and it was time for a vacation. A sunrise set at Burning Man reawakened the creative spark within Sughiarto, and it was time to revisit his studio. And revisit he did. Locking himself in for a stretch of months, Sughiarto reemerged with a new name, Revolvr, and a completely new sound.

Huge collaborations with Donald Glaude and vocalist Sue Cho have resulted in massive chart success, and an avalanche of remix requests. Revolvr will be spending his summer on the road, hitting clubs on both coasts, and making his name heard around the world. His biggest introduction to the East Coast will be at this year's Camp Bisco 11.

To download this podcast, right click Revolvr - Podcast Episode 119 and save the file.

To automatically receive future podcasts, subscribe to The Untz Podcast on iTunes

The Movement Photo Slideshow / Cervantes (Denver, CO) / 4.22.12

The Movement Photo Slideshow at Cervantes (Denver, CO) on 4.22.12 featuring Bass Science, Fresh2Death (Samples & Fisk) and Bukuone

Photos By: Audible Imagery

Avi's Crack Slippers (#10)

Each week, I will select some of my favorites. I’m busy holding down the fort, so no written reviews in this column. Just music--100% music--it’s all about the music. Got it?

Without further ado, I present to you Avi’s Crack Slippers (#10):

NumberNin6 - The River

Charles Deluxe - Funkee Krunch (Original Mix)

Zefora - Lilu's Song

Don Diablo - Silent Shadows (Drive-by Disco Mix)

Guttstar - Cool Breezes

Mightyfools - Bitches ft. Bizzey

And don't forget to check out last weeks edition, Crack Slippers (#9)

The M Machine: Metropolis Pt. I

By: Jordan Calvano
A little over a year ago rumors started surfacing about a group named Metropolis. Very little information was readily available about them at first, and the only source of music released was a video featuring clips of a few different songs simply titled “Trust in the M Machine.” After the original secrecy subsided, it became known that Metropolis was a new project from the members of Pance Party, and after some time started getting their name out and got signed to Skrillex’s booming label OWSLA.

Any mystery surrounding the group is all gone now. The San Francisco trio—who now go by The M Machine—have been picking up speed, becoming a household name in their respective genre. The three producers are incredibly good at what they do, and have a knack for combining a slew of different genres to create their own unique sound. They have shown these groundbreaking abilities on their pulsating bass release Promise Me a Rose Garden/Glow, and on other euphoric original cuts like “Trafalgar” and “No Fun Intended.”

On the group’s debut EP, released off OWSLA, the trio takes their momentous sounds to a whole new level on a release meant to get the audience jumping up and down.

Opening up the stellar EP is “Immigrant,” which will strap any listener into the passenger seat of a fighter pilot and have them soaring through the air at top speed propelled by a monstrous groove that riddles its way throughout a sea of thunderous synths and pumped up drum hits.

“Deep Search” is a bouncy and effervescent cut that could move mountains with its aesthetically pleasing glitched out soundscapes, while “Black” is a funky electro house anthem that will get the party started.

We also see some songs on the album take a much more slowed down tempo. “A King Alone” features enthralling vocals that will open the listeners mind to limitless possibilities, while “Faces” is a lyrical masterpiece filled with bright snare hits and ominous vibrations.

Closing out the release is “Shadow in the Rose Garden,” which while featuring the same vocals as “Promise Me a Rose Garden” possesses a whole new set of rampant instrumentations that will quickly captivate the listener with its aggressive low bass tones and contrasting synth lines.

The M Machine touches down like a tornado on their debut EP on a release that will quickly demonstrate just how far the trio has come in the last year.

Avicii North American LE7ELS Tour + Ticket Giveaway

Grammy nominated DJ and Producer, Avicii is about to set off on his 2012 LE7ELS Tour. Billed as "The World's First-Ever Electronic Dance Music All Arena Tour", Avicii will tour arenas throughout Europe before making his way to North America. The production alone has been said to be like nothing before seen in the EDM World. Arenas were the only option for this full-blown 3D mapping production that was recently previewed as part of his set at Coachella Music Festival in Southern California. Think IMAX.

At TheUntz.com we do our best to giveaway tickets to the hottest acts and best festivals in the country. This LE7ELS tour is NO EXCEPTION. We want our fans to experience this one of a kind stage prodcution along with one of the hottest EDM producers today! So, we're giving away a PAIR of tickets to each show on the North American tour. All you have to do is enter to Win. We'll be chosing one lucky winner in each city along the tour.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE CONTEST PAGE TO ENTER TO WIN!

June 7th - Tampa Bay Times Forum - Tampa, Florida
June 8th - American Airlines Arena - Miami, Florida
June 14th - Consol Energy Center - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
June 15th - TD Garden - Boston, Massachusetts
June 20th - First Niagra Center, Buffalo, New York
June 21st - Colisee Pepsi - Quebec City, Quebec
June 22nd - Bell Centre - Montreal, Quebec
June 26th - Red Rocks Amphitheatre - Morrison, CO
June 28th - Bill Graham Civic Auditorium - San Francisco, CA
July 3rd - Scotiabank Saddledome - Calgary, Alberta
July 4th - Credit Union Centre - Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Click Here to BUY Tickets

See-I: Blow Up (Turntable Dubbers and Sebski Remix) Video

Roots reggae phenomenon See-I is hitting the road again this Spring. In celebration, they're premiering the video for the Turtable Dubbers and Sebski remix of "Blow Up." The Fort Knox Recordings artists have been touring incessantly, bringing their high-flying brand of dub sensationalism to the masses. Partying, informing, listening, and sharing, See-I is taking the reggae world by storm, adding a little funk and soul, and demonstrating the beloved genre's ability to adapt to the 21st century by pairing with remixers of all stripes. This video gives just a taste of the dynamic stage show See-I brings to the table.

After the release of their 2011 self-titled debut album, See-I spent the rest of the year touring nationwide, quickly becoming a hit among snowboarders, skaters, skiers and reggae fans of all kinds. Loved by fans, lauded by the press and popular with radio outlets around the world, the See-I debut album has been a breakthrough success. The track “Haterz 24/7” was licensed to the newly released NBA 2K12 video game by 2K Sports. See-I defined their signature funk n’ soul reggae vibe on the debut album and then released an album of remixes that takes the sound a step further with the hottest dance floor sounds.

Shortly after their debut, See-I released their See-I Remix Compilation featuring some of the best producers from around the world reworking See-I’s music in their own respective genres. Dub, dubstep, drum’n’bass, funk, glitch-hop, house and breaks are all represented on this release. Notable producers include Fort Knox Five, Subatomic Sound System and Clayton & Fulcrum from the United States. Ancient Astronauts from Germany, Turntable Dubbers from Belgium and Omegaman from Australia. Western Canada’s own JPOD, Knight Riderz and JRoc all contributed a mix, as did Brazili’s Drumagick. This is a truly global remix compilation, taking See-I reggae-soul sounds right around the world to a whole new set of fans.

See-I continues to take the show on the road, touring nationwide through the spring and summer. California, Nevada and Colorado are on the itinerary for May. And in June See-I is off to the Electric Forest Festival in Michigan and the Great American Festival in Washington, DC. Wherever and whenever you catch See-I live, just remember that the band came to party, so wear your dancing shoes and give it everything you got. As Zeebo likes to say on stage “We came to party, and it ain’t illegal yet!”

Upcoming Tour Dates:
Thursday May 10th – The Independent – San Francisco, CA
Friday May 11th – Moe’s Alley – Santa Cruz, CA
Saturday May 12th – Crystal Bay Casino – Crystal Bay, NV
Sunday May 13th – Hard Rock Cafe on the Strip – Las Vegas, NV
Wednesday May 16th – Central SAPC – Santa Monica, CA
Thursday May 17th – Belly Up – Solana Beach, CA
Friday May 18th – Joshua Tree Music Festival – Joshua Tree, CA
Saturday May 19th – Abbey Theatre – Durango, CO
Sunday May 20th – Taste of Durango – Durango, CO
Thursday June 28th – Electric Forest Festival – Rothbury, MI
Saturday June 30th – Great American Festival – National Harbor, MD

Futexture: The Science of How Things Unfold Review

By: Jordan Calvano
Every once in a while, an artist comes along who is deftly able to capture what it means to be connected with the sounds they are creating, weaving a connective thread between source and terminus. These musicians are able to transcend the barrier that stands between sonic waves compressing and decompressing in space and their target—the listener.

David Krantz is one such artist, whose talents extend far beyond the limits of instrumentation and production, tapping directly into the soul of the sound. The Asheville, North Carolina resident, better known as Futexture, is a musical wizard when it comes to mixing bits and pieces from a slew of different genres like IDM, hip-hop, and downtempo to create mystical potions of audio elixir. Krantz’s fine-tuned creations entrance and propel the mind into orbit. He has shown these captivating musical capabilities on his sensual reconfiguration of Björk, and on deep originals like “Flake” and “Silver Discs.”

With the most recent release from Futexture, Krantz takes his groundbreaking sounds to a whole new level on The Science of How Things Unfold.

Opening up the release is “Searching Through the Future,” which will instantly float the listener’s soul away on its sentimental instrumentation that sounds like a combination of a dubbed out mariachi band and a Middle Eastern symphony.

“Kineki Niko Goes Away” is a chilled out composition that features eerie synth work, transporting listeners to the tracks of a carnival ride, while on “Kineki Niko Encounters a Capy” our imaginary character travels through a futuristic world filled to the brim with emotive crescendos and effervescent melodies.

“Released” is a pulsating, bubbly tune that will have any listener closing their eyes and instantly imaging a thrilling journey throughout the deepest unexplored layers of the ocean alongside an armada of fish and tantalizing vocal samples.

“Nightmares & Friendly Tigers” is a symphonic masterpiece containing nostalgic guitar rhythms layered in-between a spree of harmonious dubbed out bass lines. Krantz is unafraid of the subtle and sweet—a welcome change from the end goal of his contemporaries, to obliterate ear drums with stomach-churning bass blasts.

“Fragility of Focus” features a charismatic and soulful mysticism that will help anyone tuned into its tasteful soundscapes detach from the real world and enter into a realm of unconscious capabilities, while “Home” will remind listeners of a late night car ride as its gentle piano melodies bring to end this memorable adventure.

The Science of How Things Unfold is a remarkable release that truly proves how gripping the music of Futexture really is.

SexyTime & Two Fresh Photo Slideshow / Cervantes (Denver, CO) / 4.19.12

SexyTime, Two Fresh, Dam Funk, & Wick-It the Instigator Photo Slideshow at Cervantes (Denver, CO) on 4.19.12

Photos By: Audible Imagery

I Love This City San Francisco - Phase 2 Announced

I LOVE THIS CITY – SAN FRANCISCO has just announced the Phase 2 lineup and single day ticket information for the massive Northern California electronic event taking place over Memorial Day weekend on Friday, May 25 and Saturday, May 26 at The Lot at AT&T Park in San Francisco. Over 40 artists are now confirmed for Northern California’s largest electronic event.

Fifteen new artists have just been added to the lineup including Apparat, AraabMuzik, Borgore, BT, Claude VonStroke, Datsik, David Guetta, Doctor P., Dyloot, Feed Me, Harvard Bass, Madeon, Miles the DJ, Tenderlions and WhiteNoize.

An additional special guest for Friday’s lineup will be announced on Monday, May 7.

Friday’s lineup features performances by Duck Sauce, Steve Aoki, Chuckie, Datsik, James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem, AraabMuzik, Borgore, Brodinski, Claude VonStroke, Cookie Monsta, The Crystal Method, Cut Chemist, Dirtyphonics (live), FareOh, Holy Ghost!, Nervo, Oliver, Sh*t Robot, Sofi, Tenderlions, WhiteNoize and a special guest to be announced on Monday, May 7.

I LOVE THIS CITY – SAN FRANCISCO is open to patrons 18 and over.

Single day passes are $85.00 plus applicable charges or $185.00 for VIP single day passes and will go on sale Friday, May 4 at 10am at www.ilovethiscityfestival.com, Livenation.com, Ticketmaster outlets or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Two day passes are currently on sale now for $150.00 per ticket or $350.00 per VIP ticket. VIP Pass holders receive a private entrance into the festival, exclusive viewing areas with superior sightlines, private seating areas and VIP lounge access with cash bar and separate restrooms.

I LOVE THIS CITY – SAN FRANCISCO is produced by Live Nation in association with Skills and features 3 different stages including two outdoor stages and one inside of Pier 48 and takes place from 1:30pm to 11pm each day.

Unlimited Gravity: Recapitulation EP Review

By: Jordan Calvano

Purchase Album: http://www.beatport.com/release/recapitulation/899658

As America’s current bass culture continues to blossom, it seems massive tunes are being released by artists stemming from every direction. Although, it has become evident that at the forefront of this movement is The Centennial State, where incredible cuts are flowing like the Colorado River.

One artist who’s doing his part to keep this illustrious scene progressing is Ronnie Weberg. The Denver-based producer better known as Unlimited Gravity is an absolute monster when it comes to meticulously crafting monumental cuts that will have a crowd going all out like it’s New Year’s Eve. His destructive soundscapes are known for infusing a slew of pumped up glitch-hop tones with a classical mentality that combine to create a whirlwind of eccentric bangers. He is best known for his bass bumping original cuts like the ones off his Cataclysmic EP, along with tenacious revamps of artists like Awolnation, Ellie Goulding, and Alpha Data.

On his Recapitulation EP released via Prime Dub Records, Weberg takes a gigantic musical stride and provides his fans with a jaw dropping set of songs that will immediately incite a relentless earthquake.

Opening up this contagious release is “Lift Your Spirit,” which will strike its listeners ears with an unlimited supply of dubbed out synth womps and create an energetic head rush as each note hits.

“Organize” is a bass filed monstrosity of a song that contains a series of synthetic glitched out tones, which perfectly complement its lawless midtempo groove sections.

“Roaf Beast” is tasty jam containing limitless high-pitched rhythms and is the perfect party anthem for a warm summer day. This track is best enjoyed with a side of rice and a few beers; cold as the Rockies that is.

“Momentum” is a funked out track that will have heads bobbing till the wee hours of the morning, while “Zip Lock” is a rhythmic masterpiece containing jazzy instrumentation and a slew of addicting synth lines that would make the glitch-hop gods proud.

Unlimited Gravity goes all out on his most recent release and creates a unique sound while staying true to the music bursting out of Colorado’s burgeoning sound movement.

Conspirator: Unlocked (Live From The Georgia Theatre Review)

By: Kerry McNeil

After a lengthy U.S. tour in 2011, Aron Magner and Marc Brownstein (keyboardist and bassist of The Disco Biscuits) have demonstrated that what was once considered a side project of the Philadelphia trance fusion act has thoroughly shaken loose the stigma and come into its own. Accompanied by guitarist Chris Michetti and a rotating lineup of seasoned drummers including Darren Shearer (The New Deal), Mike Greenfield (Lotus), KJ Sawka (Pendulum), and Adam Deitch (Break Science), Conspirator has now unveiled a live album from its October 6th show at the Georgia Theatre with Ghostland Observatory. Unlocked – Live From The Georgia Theatre is now available from SCI Fidelity Records, making the firmest statement yet that Conspirator is its own individual entity. With a set list that flows seamlessly from livetronica to drum and bass, exploring electro, house, rock and back again without losing any cohesion, Conspirator unleashed its amped up genre fusion on the Athens audience.

“Park Ave” starts with whistles and cheers from an enthusiastic audience and as bluesy guitar from Michetti is slowly integrated, a smattering of cymbals and bubbling synths are introduced. Embellished with reverberating guitar melodies from Michetti and more fizzy synths, the track builds up to a crescendo of screaming guitars, crashing drums, and soaring synths. Moving swiftly into “So Much More,” Conspirator changes it up from traditional Disco Biscuits-esque jamming to much heavier, explosive guitar riffs, harsh bass lines from Brownstein, pounding drums, and constant keys as Magner and Michetti jump from towering crescendo to crescendo.

The Unlocked set list swiftly changes up the sound again with a sequence of “Velvet Red,” “Feed The Wolf,” and then “Velvet Red” again. Smoothly transitioning from a circular, spacey synth melody and groovy guitar to an erratic, laser synth electro sound, Conspirator amps up the house vibe with a grinding synth beat and more frenzied guitar work from Michetti—all while maintaining pulsating instrumental chorus lines.

Featuring the interspersed echoing vocal samples of Rihanna, “S & M” showcases Michetti’s exceptional guitar chops with more heavy riffs like on “So Much More,” as well as shrieking solos that soar above all else. Buzzing synths, loftily plucked strings, and a hand-clap rhythm all slowly become more intense, lending to the dance club atmosphere of “Countach.” Continuing with the heavy dance rhythm on “Proper Education,” Conspirator introduces a sample from Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick In The Wall,” amidst banging cymbals, beeping synths from Magner, and Michetti’s tirelessly effervescent melodies. The dance vibe keeps going as the band flows into “Gypsy Lane” and “Retrograde” with each instrument sounding even louder as Conspirator ends the set with high energy.

Unlocked not only demonstrates Conspirator’s live performance forte, but also the band’s diversity of sound as each track stylistically hops back and forth without ever losing the set’s inherent flow. Though the band may have started as a Disco Biscuits side project, Unlocked is proof of the group’s transformation into something much more than that, giving listeners a glimpse of the masterful live performances Conspirator has been delivering across the country.

Purchase Album: http://conspirator.bandgarden.com/conspirator-unlocked-cd

IDentity Festival - Phoenix, AZ Preview (Limited $25 Tickets)

Following the resounding success of last year's inaugural IDentity Festival, the biggest touring electronic music show in the county is back and better than ever. On August 19th, ID Fest rolls through the Ashley Furniture HomeStore Pavilion in Phoenix, AZ. Headliners on this incarnation of the tour include Eric Prydz, one of Sweden's most beloved house exports, and Paul van Dyk, a trance legend and one of the lucky few to have held the #1 DJ in the world distinction. Bass god Excision is bringing his monstrous sound to the Pavilion, as well as Doctor P, Showtek, Arty, and red-hot Dutch act NOISIA. Le Castle Vania makes his triumphant return to the IDentity stage on this stop, as well.

Right now, tickets are still available at the low, low price of $25, but supplies are limited, so make sure you get on board now. You can pick up tickets locally at a number of outlets, or by visiting LiveNation.com.

Shogun - Podcast Episode 118

Born and raised in the midwest, Andrew Chen was introduced to the electronic music scene through the industrial sounds of NIN and The Prodigy. Searching for lush melodies, he stumbled upon trance, and the beautiful compositions of Paul Van Dyk, Gouryella (Ferry Corsten and Tiësto), and Armin van Buuren. Little did he know, Armin would one day be releasing Chen's own music under the moniker Shogun.

Since the release of his monster single, "Skyfire," Shogun has been busy collaborating with the ubiquitous vocals of Emma Hewitt, most notably on his remix of her "Make You Paradise." The two have been scheming up several more projects, but in the meantime, Dash Berlin's new album Music is Life contains two Shogun tunes. That album just dropped today, and you can hear those two cuts on this episode.

To download this podcast, right click Shogun - Podcast Episode 118 and save the file.

To automatically receive future podcasts, subscribe to The Untz Podcast on iTunes

ALTITUDE Rising in Boulder This Saturday

The University of Colorado student-run organization, Program Council, has teamed up with Insomniac Events and Eventvibe to throw an end-of-the-semester party like no other. Aptly named ALTITUDE, the event boasts top-notch stage production and a stacked line-up including the Canadian electronic duo MSTRKRFT and rising Slovenian producer Gramatik. What better way to say goodbye to classes and hello to summer?

With Insomniac's reputation for over the top production, you can be sure CU Boulder's Balch Fieldhouse will be transformed into the semester's best dance party. Or at least its most recent. West Coast Hip-Hop group Zion I, Michigan's GRiZ and Boulder's own Robotic Pirate Monkey round out the bill. Despite it being on CU campus, the event IS open to the public. You have the students and University to thank for putting together such a great event, so be sure to show a little respect.

ALTITUDE
APRIL 28th, 2012
University of Colorado - Boulder
Balch Field House
Boulder, Colorado
8pm-2am
18+

Buy Tickets Here

Oblivion: Dead In Space EP Preview

By: Jordan Calvano

In today’s bass culture, incredibly talented producers are popping up with increasing frequency. Even fans of the scene avidly finding new artists will have a couple slip under their radar.

There is a slight chance this might have happened with James Vander (Oblivion). The Minneapolis producer is a beast when is comes to unleashing finely tuned bass lines that were crafted with the intention of smashing his live sets. His in-your-face drops feature a steady balance of relentless dub hits, which combine flawlessly with an armada of groovy synths that together create a simultaneously melodic and cataclysmic sound. This can be heard on his mouth-watering originals like “Drunkstep” and “Bass Freq,” along with essential switch ups of well-known artists like Deadmau5, Lily Allen, and Kreayshawn.

On his most recent EP, Dead in Space, released via Doom Music, Vander puts all his production capabilities into one massive melting pot and brings his fans a remarkable release will have them going all out from the second these songs drop.

Free Download of “Bomberman Fights Back” at: http://tinyurl.com/OblivionFreeTracks

Opening up the release is the bass heavy track “Bomberman Fights Back,” which is a riotous track that will immediately incite eminent chaos with its terror storm of ubiquitous synth lines and overall ominous aura. This track will transport any listeners mind inside the screen of their favorite video game, and have them instantly achieving a new high score.

“Buried Alive” is a tantalizing drum and bass banger that will quickly captivate anyone tuned in with its spooky vocal samples, which layer perfectly over an unlimited supply of remarkable dub slaps and adrenaline boosting high hats.

Closing up the EP is “The Forcefield,” which contains a slew of ground breaking synths that fit perfectly with the tracks grimy atmosphere and aesthetically pleasing aura. It is a rampant cut that will wake up any crowd and have partying with a tenacious supply of energy till the night comes to an end.

Oblivion proves once again that he is ready to kick ass and take names via his out of this world musical vibrations that are like a dubstep orchestra infused with heavy metal.

Avi's Crack Slippers (#9)

Each week, I will select some of my favorites. I’m busy holding down the fort, so no written reviews in this column. Just music--100% music--it’s all about the music. Got it?

Without further ado, I present to you Avi’s Crack Slippers (#9):

FLINCH - Light It Up feat. Heather Bright (Original Mix)

Don Diablo - Silent Shadows (Mind Vortex Remix)

Amnezia & Requiem - Timelapse

Omnitica - Cabaña 2012 (Russelåt)

Chromeo - When the Night Falls (Savoy Remix)

Arpetrio - Destructive Interference

And don't forget to check out last weeks edition, Crack Slippers (#8)

Phrenik: Spy Games Chapter 2 Review

By: Jordan Calvano

One effective aspect of the music stemming from America’s current bass culture is the ability to take its listeners mind on a journey. Whether that journey is through unexplored worlds, uncharted territories, or into unseen dimensions.

That’s what the music of Mike Quiroz is all about. The San Diego-based producer better known as Phrenik is a beast when it comes to creating fine-tuned, hard hitting cuts that will instantly propel any listener into a expansive out of body experience. Quiroz has put out a slew of genre-fusing cuts these past few years with the intention of entrancing his listeners, and getting a crowd moving. This can be heard on his earth shattering original EP’s like Killah Supreme and Badman, and on his serotonin pulsing switch ups of artists like Shotgun Radio, Jillian Ann, and Mimi Page.

On the talented artists most recent release off Simplify Recordings, we witness him add four more charismatic cuts to his massive Spy Games series on Chapter Two.

Opening up the EP is the title track, which contains the bold and tenacious vocals of the one and only Mimi Page. The cut will instantly stun the listener into a pulsating electric shock due to its thunderous capabilities and energetic synth lines.

“The Kingdom” features production from the 16-year-old prodigy Kezwik, and is all out, in your face dubbed out banger that contains grimy and relentless wobbles along with a slew of immersive vocal samples including the frequently chopped up line “This will be the greatest war the world has ever seen.”

“Short Circuit” is a speaker-shattering cut that possesses in your face instrumentation and will cause a catastrophic frenzy as soon as this colossal track drops with all its fury.

Closing out the release is a solid remix by Stiletto that reworks the track “Circles” from Spy Games Chapter One. She retains the vocals and feel of the original song, yet adds a dance worthy bounce that will get any crowd on their feet.

Spy Games Chapter 2 strikes with massive force and is the perfect follow up to the intro of this memorable saga. Sit back, relax, and let the music take you away.

VibeSquad: Orphan Alien pt2 Review

By: Jordan Calvano
<a data-cke-saved-href="http://vibesquad.bandcamp.com/album/orphan-alien-pt2" href="http://vibesquad.bandcamp.com/album/orphan-alien-pt2">Orphan Alien pt2 by VibeSquaD</a>
Aaron Holstein is an absolute bass legend. The Colorado producer better known as VibeSquaD has been proving to the EDM world for a long time that he is a massive force to be reckoned with. Holstein is critically acclaimed for his uncanny ability to unload musical full clips with every single monumental tune that he unleashes from his groundbreaking arsenal of crowd-pleasing instrumentations. This can be heard on his pulsating bass filled original masterpieces like the ones off Orphan Alien Pt. 1, and on pivotal switch ups of Bob Marley, Busta Rhymes, and Big Boi.

On Pt. 2 of the Orphan Alien series, VibeSquaD adds another chapter to his effervescent collection of floor shattering cuts that were meant to get the party rocking till the wee hours of the morning.

Starting off the release is the adrenaline-pumping track “Burn Rubber (i’m a wreck), which is nothing short of a synth smacking bass anthem that features Izza Kizza spitting hot bars over Holstein’s contagious soundscapes. This is one of those banging tracks that truly has something for everyone, regardless of their musical preferences.

“Porky Pegasus” is an funky and psychedelic cut that will automatically strap any listener into the passenger seat of a fighter pilot and have them quickly soaring above the clouds, while “WellFunk” is an energetic and addicting tune featuring a tenacious groove that riddles its way throughout an armada of bright snare hits and eclectic vocal samples.

“GripTape” strikes immediately with a series of deep, booming synths and the force of a hurricane that will knock its listeners over if they don’t quickly grab onto something.

Closing out the release is the must have track “Ruthless Rabbit,” which possesses eerie, glitched out vocals and an intellectual bass line that eventually drops into heavy drum claps and potent dubbed out smacks. Be sure to also check out the single pack of this song released a few weeks ago which features remixes from R/D and Freddy Todd, among other things.

Orphan Alien Pt. 2 is a monster set of cuts that will have any crowd bouncing off the walls, and once again proves how vibrant and addicting the music of VibeSquaD really is.

Bass Center V Photo Slideshow / The Liacouras Center (Philadelphia, PA) / 4.20.12

Photos By: Shaun Hollingsworth (www.sicimages.com)

Bass Center V Photo Slideshow / The Liacouras Center (Philadelphia, PA) / 4.20.12 (Bassnectar with A-Trak & VibeSquaD)

Ohm Wrecker: The Float EP Review

By: Jordan Calvano

Welcome to Seattle, Washington. The illustrious Northwest city is the home of the Seahawks, Mariners, Pikes Place, and a whole lot of hipsters. It is also the current hometown of the bass bumping dubstep group Ohm Wrecker.

The duo (formerly known as Dubble Penetration) consisting of producers Penny Wide Pupils (Will Costello) and Humpfree LowGart (Jon Curran) have come a long way since they met and soon after attended Burning Man together. The two have put together a powerful sound that possesses bubbly instrumentations and ample servings of banging dub lines that will have any listener hooked from the first drop. They have busted onto their respective scene in a big way recently by dropping a sensational, grimy remix of the classic Sugarpill song “Trouble Blind,” along with tenacious original cuts that will be get a crowd moving like “Drop It” and “So High.”

On the Float EP released on Tycho Records, the duo takes their thunderous soundscapes to a whole new level.

The EP opens up with the title track, which is an all out beast of a tune that features chopped up, hip-hop style vocals and an uplifting groove that riddles its way between a series of confident and immersive synth lines. This momentous and in your face track will have you pressing replay over and over again, and is a huge step for Ohm Wrecker.

“Bass Thunder” is a limitless cut that will instantly open up the sky and unleash the onslaught of the elements upon the world with its endless supply of ominous dub lines and mystical guitar rhythms

“Headful of Space” is a dubbed out, mid tempo cut that will instantly entrance the listener and send them on a musical journey through a series of powerful crescendos and contagious drum hits.

Ohm Wrecker goes all out on their debut release, and proves very quickly that they deserve to be heard.

Prime Dub announces new partnership with Mixify

Prime Dub Entertainment & Mixify are pleased to announce a new partnership between the two companies. As a partner, the LA based Prime Dub will be supplying the New York based startup with musical content from the label’s innovative catalogue.

“We at Prime Dub are delighted to be partnering with the new and cutting-edge online DJ experience, Mixify. As a forward-thinking brand in Dance Music it only made sense for us to team up with such a like-minded startup.” Stated Prime Dub CEO & Founder Alex Bestall.

Mixify is a never-ending online music festival where anyone can DJ live for their friends, discover new music, and earn rewards. Head over to the Prime Clubland club on www.Mixify.com to spin some of the latest tracks from Prime Dub Entertainment and take your music experience to the next level.

For access to their private launch, simply enter this invite code PRIMECLUBLAND at Mixify.com."

Altitude Preview Video (Boulder, CO - 4.28.12)

Insomniac, Program Council, Eventvibe, and Disco Donnie Present:

ALTITUDE MUSIC FESTIVAL @ CU Boulder

- MSTRKRFT
- Gramatik
- Zion I (Amplive + Zumbi)
- GRiZ
- Robotic Pirate Monkey

Saturday, April 28th
Music from 8PM – 2AM
Balch Field House - ON CU BOULDER CAMPUS
AGES 18 AND UP ONLY

:: TICKETS – Get them before they go!::

Public:
eventvibe.com/event-info/Altitude-2012/31x4

Student:
$20 Student Tickets are SOLD OUT
$25 Student tickets are on sale now - don't miss out on this pricing!
Discounted student tickets can be purchased at
- the UMC Connection (University Memorial Center Room 105)
- eventvibe.com/event-info/Altitude-2012/31x4

Win a pair of tickets from TheUntz.com: http://theuntz.com/ALTITUDE-Boulder-CO-04.28.12

Captain Panic! - Holographic Universe Review

By: Ty Allen

Based out of Los Angeles, the duo of Adam McKay and Michael Myers, formerly known by fans as PRIME and now Captain PANIC! have been serving up some seriously brain battering bass for just over a year now. The two started off, individually, in industrial and death metal genres, but a chance meeting at work, along with a shared passion for house and trance, would soon reallocate their talents into the world of electronic music production. Though they may have started off simply playing with equipment in their rooms, the two seasoned musicians soon pumped out their first track “Screamer,” receiving a lot of praise, and their dubstep wings were spread.

Now we are in the first half of 2012 and Captain PANIC! has been unleashing visceral tracks, shutting down venues, and systematically crafting Holographic Universe, released via the infamously bass wrecking Heavy Artillery Records. Well, it’s finally out for those who have been patiently waiting ever since PANIC! released the sampler above a few months ago, and it is nothing short of galactic endowment. From the artfully crafted, intensely cavernous sounds of songs like, “Quantum Flux” and “Perception, to the ominously sinister sounds of “Ethereal”, the EP is spine rattling throughout. If you’re new to the group, you won’t be disappointed, so long as you have a residual appreciation of distorted, bass-heavy music. Unfortunately, there is only a sample of the entire album, though more than enough to compensate, nevertheless we are pleased to bring you Captain Panic!’s Holographic Universe Ep, out on Beatport, Amazon, and Itunes. Free music is great to listen to but sadly, impossible to produce, so help support the artists and, as always, don’t forget to crank that bass!

Identity Festival 2012 Announced

Presenting, the 2012 Identity Festival featuring Eric Prydz, Wolfgang Gartner, Excision, Nero (DJ Set), Paul Van Dyk, Madeon, Porter Robinson, Showtek, Noisia, Arty + more to be added. Taking over 15 cities in North America this July 19-August 19.

Limited number of $25 All-In Tickets are on sale now at www.IDFestival.com.

Tour Dates/Venues:
7/19 Cincinnati - Riverbend
7/20 Detroit - Elektricity Festival Grounds
7/21 Toronto - Echo Beach powered by Rogers
7/26 Boston - Comcast Center
7/27 DC - Jiffy Lube Live
7/28 Wantagh - Nixon at Jones Beach Theater
7/29 Camden - Festival Pier at Penn's Landing
8/2 Atlanta - Aarons Amphitheatre
8/3 Tampa - 1-800 Ask Gary Amphitheatre
8/4 Miami - Klipsch Amphitheatre at Bayfront
8/10 Dallas - Gexa Energy Pavilion
8/11 Houston - Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
8/17 San Francisco - Shoreline Amphitheatre * Ticket on-sales 5/29
8/18 San Diego - Cricket Amphitheatre * Ticket on-sales 5/29
8/19 Phoenix - Pavilion Amphitheatre

The Coop - A Fleeting Glimpse EP Stream + Review

By: Natty Morrison

Download the album

Sometimes a band sneaks up on you. But sometimes a band sneaks up on everyone. Such is the story of Windy City’s rising livetronica stars The Coop. For the past eight years, this Chicago quartet has been quietly building an army of loyal fans in and around the Midwest.

Armed with a fantastic new 5-song EP –A Fleeting Glimpse—The Coop are looking to double down on their recent success. And in an age where it seems every jam band wants to play 4 on the floor dance beats, The Coop have miraculously figured out how to set themselves apart. Part of that is thanks to the pure skill and talent of all four players. Cason Trager’s heavy hitting bass combined with drummer Jake Barinholtz’ frenetic drum attack gives way to walls of dripping synth courtesy of new member Joe Re. And then there’s the guitar. Oh, my goodness the guitar. Danny Biggins, with his laser-guided guitar riffs, crazy-as-Zappa phrasing and a well-oiled instinct for crescendos and climaxes, is a star amongst up-and-coming jam guitarists. But aside from their chops, the three main composers (Biggins, Trager and Barinholtz) are damned good writers too.

The title track oozes groove, without sacrificing any of the melodic muscle. “Next Year” is a low-end work-out, with Trager and Barinholtz trading off rhythm comps while Biggins and Re paint a slap-happy portrait. The Biggins-penned, “Fiber Octopus” re-imagines Phish’s proggier leanings in a way the Disco Biscuits or STS9 never bothered. Veering between gorgeous soundscapes reminiscent of DJ groups like Avalanches or even Blockhead, and furious King Crimson-style riffing, “Fiber Octopus” is one monster of a cut. And though the group has remained vocally silent onstage for years, “Mindfully Enough” finds the quartet working with original vocals for the first time ever.

Though the album is short, if this is any indication of what’s to come, The Coop looks to be a heavy hitter in it to win.

Feed Me & Dillon Francis Photo Slideshow / McDonald Theatre (Eugene, OR) / 4.16.12

Photos By: Mason Trinca

Feed Me & Dillon Francis Photo Slideshow / McDonald Theatre (Eugene, OR) / 4.16.12

Big Sean ft. Nicki Minaj - Dance (A$$) (Crushendo Remix)

By: Jordan Calvano

If you have yet to come across the monster party anthem “Dance (A$$)” by Big Sean and Nicki Minaj, we have to question what you have been doing with your life these last six months. The dance floor banger goes hard and was meant to have ladies taking shots, getting wild, and shaking their goods.

Well today we have a massive remix of this song for you, in the form of a party rocking, bass whompin’ switch up by the Boulder collective Crushendo. The duo consisting of Cody Yozipovic (Frequent C) and Julian Garland (The Candyman) have been melting faces as of late with their carefully crafted intelligent bass music that possesses facets of many different genres and an overall steezy aura. Their hip-hop mentality blends flawlessly with classically influenced soundscapes and occasional dubstep tones to top off their relentless servings of tasty musical treats that will satisfy any listener’s appetite—for destruction that is.

As of late the group has been focusing on unleashing dynamic originals like “Trouble” and their Drop Logic EP, so you know it’s going to be a good day when the two combine forces for their first remix together under their new alias.

“Dance (A$$)” strikes immediately with a slew of tenacious drum hits, out of this world soundwaves, and the classic Big Sean lyrics “Stop, now make that mother fucker hammer time,” that have been repeated ad nauseam by college kids across the nation. Soon after the listener is struck by a whirlwind of bubbly, charismatic synths and a healthy dose of booming glitched out vocals that will have them partying like it was the summer of ‘69. Next up is a monstrous section that features gargantuan instrumentations and a confident dub line that layer perfectly under Nicki Minaj rapping about her ass for 16 bars.

Crushendo proves once again there is no letting up in the constant pursuit to create memorable cuts that all seem like they were unloaded from the barrel of a twelve gauge shotgun. “Dance (A$$)” was a perfect remix for the duo to take on, and it did not disappoint.

Paul van Dyk - Podcast Episode 117

Easily one of the biggest stars of the electronic/dance community over the past decade or so has been Paul van Dyk. He was a megastar even before the boom and bust of the rave scene in the mid-to-late 90's, and continued to dominate in Europe in Asia while dance music went into hibernation in the States. He has racked up millions of miles jet-setting around the globe spreading his music to millions of fans in all walks of life. Not only is he vigorously politically active, he has raised awareness for all sorts of causes, and given DJs not just a body of work to look up to, but a way of life.

His sixth studio album is out now. Entitled Evolution, the album demonstrates the leaps and bounds van Dyk has made in his own sound during the five years since his last effort, but also the progress made in the dance scene as a whole. This album features collaborations with Arty, Kyau & Albert, and some of the biggest names in pop music.

To download this podcast, right click Paul van Dyk - Podcast Episode 117 and save the file.

To automatically receive future podcasts, subscribe to The Untz Podcast on iTunes

Avi's Crack Slippers (#8)

Each week, I will select some of my favorites. I’m busy holding down the fort, so no written reviews in this column. Just music--100% music--it’s all about the music. Got it?

Without further ado, I present to you Avi’s Crack Slippers (#8):

Figure - The Brink

Daydream in Blue Ft. Lupe Fiasco (Bassex Remix)

GRiDWORK - Set it in Motion Mix (April 2012)

Lazy Rich and Hirshee feat Amba Shepherd - Damage Control [PREVIEW]

Brown & Gammon - How I Feel

And don't forget to check out last weeks edition, Crack Slippers (#7)

Ocean Beats Mini Tour Preview

Ocean Beats, a San Diego monthly dubbed “A Bass Music Movement,” will be taking its faction on the road for the first time May 3 – May 5, 2012. The Madero Group founder Jamie Minotti assembled the team with San Diego DJ’s Sublmnl Sound System (Austin Speed and CRMNL) and debuted the group in the Fall of '09. The short mini-tour will feature Eliot Lipp and Samples (aka Ben Samples) along with support from Sublmnl Sound System, Pool Party, and local acts in each city. “The event was created to showcase music that we at The Madero Group have a deep passion for, and truly care about showcasing,” says Minotti.

Although “bangers” are on the forefront of the scene, Ocean Beats believes that the bass lovers who have a passion for EDM will eventually find more than just the “drop"--but don’t get them wrong, they all love the energy. Some of Eliot Lipp’s beats, while skewing towards the midtempo/hip-hop side of things, are some of the nastiest pieces of work in the electronic world, shedding all doubt about his billings at world-renowned events such as Low End Theory, Red Bull Music Academy and massive festivals like Detroit Movement and Electric Forest.

Joining Lipp on the Ocean Beats run will be his good friend and label mate Samples (aka Ben Samples), a producer/DJ that hails from the thriving scene of Denver, CO. Samples, although on the heavier side of things, keeps it unique with his signature glitch-hop sound while also adding a melodic twist. Samples just released his 4-track EP Life of The Party on MalLabel Music, which sat at the #1 spot on Beatport’s Glitch Hop charts for a month. He's diving head first into the huge festival season with plays all across North America and a blowout at Glade Music Festival in the UK alongside KOAN Sound, Pretty Lights, and Rusko.

Rounding on the touring bill are Sublmnl Sound System, a tag team DJ duo, and Pool Party, a live electronic hip-hop group.

Catch all four acts and a host of local talent at Ocean Beats on Thursday, May 3rd at Winston’s in San Diego; Friday, May 4th at The Sail Inn in Tempe, AZ, and Saturday, May 5th at The Central Social Aid and Pleasure Club in Santa Monica, CA.

Also keep an eye out for details on the return of Ocean Beats sister event, River Beats, a two-day festival at State Bridge in Bond, CO, July 27 – July 29, in conjunction with Bonfire Entertainment.

Ticket Contests:

May 3rd at Winston’s in San Diego

May 4th at The Sail Inn in Tempe, AZ

May 5th at The Central Social Aid and Pleasure Club in Santa Monica, CA

Eliot Lipp – Beamrider (Samples remix)

Lotus Photo Slideshow / 9:30 Club (Washington, DC) / 4.13.12

Photos By: Zack Teator (http://www.ztphotos.com ; http://www.facebook.com/ZackTeatorPhoto)

Seven Lions: Polarize EP Review + Interview

By: Jordan Calvano

TheUntz.com correspondent Jordan Calvano recently got a chance to review the latest effort from Seven Lions, and chat with Jeff Montalvo about his life and work. Here is the review and interview in its entirety.

To say Jeff Montalvo is on a roll as of late would be an understatement. The venomous young producer, now signed to Above & Beyond’s Anjunabeats, has been rampantly busting out breathtaking, vocal-infused dubstep cuts that continue to defy the laws of gravity. He is a monster when it comes to carefully designing gargantuan synth lines that have the ability to burst open the layers of the Earth’s inner core, which can be heard on clock stopping remixes of Above & Beyond, Florence + The Machine, and of course on his dynamic originals “Luna” and “Deep Divide.”

On his debut release from Viper Recordings, we witness Montalvo’s Polarized EP take a massive step in claiming dominance in the bass world.

Opening up the addicting EP is the mind-warping, bass-blasting track “Below Us.” The cut features ominous drum work and the soul gripping vocals of Shaz Sparks that will instantly captivate the consciousness of anyone tuned in. The release also features a remix by fellow Viper Recordings producer Smooth, who turns the song into a full on drum and bass banger that will move a crowd like nobody’s business.

The title track of the release also appears on the EP in two different forms. The original version features confident, dubbed out soundwaves that layer perfectly under emotive synth instrumentations and vocals from Sparks, while the Extended DJ Edit adds some punch to the already massive track and makes it even more worthy of dropping on a rowdy audience.

“Tyven,” opens up with a lengthy intro that will quickly entrance the listener and relieve any stresses or anxieties they may have. The track eventually drops into a whirlwind of steady bass whompin grooves that will transport anyone engrained in this cut to the pyramids of Egypt.

“Isis,” is a pulsating, death defying cut that puts out a vibrant Middle Eastern aura and releases its full energy when each unique drop strikes with relentless synth work.

The new Seven Lions EP is a gigantic hit that will quickly establish him as the king of the jungle. Sit back, relax, and let the speakers do the work.

Jordan Calvano: What are the biggest goals of your musical career?

Jeff Montalvo: As cheesy as it sounds, I just want to reach people the way my favorite artists have reached me. I know how much music means to me—all kinds of music. It is my ultimate goal to continue the chain of inspiration and influence somebody somewhere to make something awesome.

JC: What was the creative process like on your debut EP, and was it any different than your previous works?

JM: I wrote the tracks when I was just coming out of my shell and exploring dubstep and breakbeats. “Polarized” is actually my first tune with breakbeats in it. I sent the tracks to Viper and they helped me along quite a bit. They got me in touch with Robbie and Shaz Sparks and laid down the vocals, which turned out excellent! It is very much influenced by my days of listening to metal.

JC: Who are some of your biggest musical influences?

JM: Opeth, Delirium, Above & Beyond, Porcupine Tree, my Dad.

JC: How did you get into producing dubstep? And did you create any form of music before this?

JM: I produced trance and house for quite a while before I started dubstep. I also made Industrial way back in the day. The first time I was really exposed to dubstep was at Burning Man 2009 and I was completely overwhelmed. It was EVERYWHERE. I couldn't stand it for the longest time. Living in Santa Barbara, there is absolutely no scene for trance/progressive. I would say I made the move to dubstep reluctantly and out of a want to stay relevant to my friends, but after I made my first few tracks I realized that there is so much potential to create amazing music without the constraints of the constant 4 on the floor beat of trance/house. It reminded me of playing the drums and really let me explore electronic music in a way that I was unable to before.

JC: Supporting the UKF tour was your first major touring experience. Have any particularly awesome memories?

JM: The whole thing was just insane. I had never played to a crowd of over 50 people up until then so it was a little nerve wracking. I've heard the term "feeding off the crowd" so many times, but I never really got it until this tour. It’s impossible not to get amped up when you’re playing one of your own tunes and the dance floor reacts well.

JC: What does the name Seven Lions mean to you?

JM: The name Seven Lions is from one of my favorite books, Latro in the Mist by Gene Wolfe.

JC: If you could play one festival anywhere in the world, what would it be?

JM: Shambhala - Canada

Samples: Chill Works Vol. 3

By: Jordan Calvano
Chill Works Vol. 3 by Samples
One aspect of a talented artist in today’s dance music landscape is the ability to produce diverse music on different projects and releases. While it’s important to hone in and create your own sound, it is also important to avoid being repetitive from song to song.

In that spirit let us formally introduce the uninitiated to Samples—Ben Samples. The Denver producer has been killing it lately with a knack for creating a slew of rampant cuts that possess different tempos, energy’s, and overall feels. He has put together a steezy sound that ranges from mid tempo vocal-infused masterpieces to all out synth smackin bangers that will move the crowd like Samples prefers; shaken not stirred. Samples has been busting out nothing but mouth watering cuts as of late which can be heard on bass booming releases like Sex, Drugs & Bass and Life of the Party, and on cataclysmic remixes of artists like The Weeknd, Alpha Data, and Justice.

On his most recent release, Chill Works Vol. 3, Samples adds another group of songs to his impressive series of heart-warming remixes and vocal based originals.

Opening up the collection of tunes is an instant classic that takes on the incredibly potent and in your face vocals of Florence + The Machine and reworks them to perfection. “Only if for a Night,” is a sensual and mesmerizing cut that features potent drum hits and a limitless supply of euphoric piano chords that create an uplifting and inspirational aura.

“Hide & Seek,” takes on the well-known, slowed down love song from Imogen Heap and doesn’t even make you wait for the classic “Whatcha say” lines that are so captivating and pulsing to the mind, while also adding a slightly dubby atmospheric aura to top it off.

Two songs riddle their way across the release that are not considered remixes, but take on the classic lyrics of female vocals and let the men takeover. “Motivation to Screw,” is a sexual slow jam featuring the lyrics of Kelly Rowland and Lil’ Wayne pitch changed like you’ve never heard him before. “Starry Screw,” features head bobbing claps and serotonin boosting piano melodies layered under the lines to “Starry Eyed” in a whole new way.

We also see a massive burst of soulful R&B making its way onto this release. “Grind on Me,” adds a momentous and immersive soundscape to compliment Pretty Ricky’s classic 90’s vocals, while “Sure Thing,” adds passive and melodic background sounds to the chilled out emotional love song from Migeul.

Chill Works Vol. 3 is a must have for any Samples fan. This album is a name your price release so either pick it up for free on Bandcamp, or if you’re feeling generous donate to support amazing music.

MSD: No Forgo EP Review

Free Download of the EP Mini-Mix: http://on.fb.me/H8LT47

It's easy for Americans to think that we're at the center of the universe, but it's hardly the case when it comes to music. The rock 'n' roll of the 60's was ushered in by the British Invasion. You couldn't shield yourself from the syrupy sweetness of Sweden's ABBA throughout the 70's. Dance music is no exception. Sure, Detroit and Chicago were hallowed grounds for techno and house, but the rise of the rave scene in the 90's was fueled by the Germans, the Dutch, and the British again. And then once more in recent memory, the Brits gave us dubstep, stimulating another swell in the popularity of dance music.

But one country that gets no respect in the dance community has been the source of some of its biggest influences in recent memory. There is no producer on the scene today who doesn't look to Daft Punk or Justice as the pinnacle of dance music mastery. So it comes as no surprise that one of dubstep's newest stars would also come from the jewel of Europa.

Pierre Novi is changing the bass game from the inside out. A skilled sound designer, his aim is to originate his entire sonic palette from the ground up. Using wholly unique pieces, his tracks capture the essence of popular dubstep, without feeling contrived or slipshod. Enter MSD.

His debut EP No Forgo is a tour de force of catchy hooks and brilliant production. Bringing on vocalists VDA and Simplify Recordings' grand dame Jillian Ann, MSD crafts the perfect pop song with a heavy edge. There's no doubting massive UK stars like Cookie Monsta and Flux Pavilion have been supporting his tracks. Jillian's sultry voice echoes over forlorn, bass-ridden, apocalyptic landscapes of dissonance and dreariness in "Quiet Riot," before soaring over pulsing synths and triumphant drum lines.

"Tell Me Why" and "Last War" are more straightforward. Blending accessible bass tones with hooks that latch on and don't let go is Novi's specialty. MSD is leading the entire Prime Dub roster headlong into pop music territory without sacrificing the allegiance of die-hards otherwise turned off by the sugary nature of Billboard-charting bass music.

No Forgo ushers in a new age for EDM Francophiles. MSD is the next generation of French producer--part pop icon, part exploratory pioneer. Only an LP stands between him and a lasting legacy.

Track Listing:

1. MSD ft. VDA - No Forgo
2. MSD & Jillian Ann - Quiet Riot
3. MSD - Tell Me Why
4. MSD - Last War
5. MSD - Interlude (Outro)

Michal Menert - Podcast Episode 116

Michal Menert has been on quite a roller coaster over the past few years. Beginning around the time of his debut release on Pretty Lights Music, Dreaming of a Bigger Life, he's been through personal heartache, working a dead-end job, and being a music industry outsider. From there, he got signed to one of the biggest labels in North American EDM, traveled the country touring incessantly, and crafted a whole new album of material that sums up all of the pain and triumph in one. His latest release, Even if it Isn't Right, will be dropping April 24th on PLM, and he talks all about on this week's episode. We have a TON of sneak previews from the album scattered throughout today's show.

Menert just today released a brand new mixtape, Rust: A Collection of Forgotten Hip-hop Instrumentals. While moving, he found a stack of old sketches from approximately 2002-2006. Some were waiting for rapped verses, others were just vibes of songs to come. Michal wrapped them up into a set, and just dropped them for your curiosity and enjoyment.

Today's episode is sponsored by Euphonic Conceptions. On April 19th you can catch their big celebration of Bicycle Day, a most holy holiday, at 1015 Folsom in San Francisco. Michal Menert is among the MANY artists appearing on the bill. This one's gonna be BIG.

To download this podcast, right click Michal Menert - Podcast Episode 116 and save the file.

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Avi's Crack Slippers (#7)

Each week, I will select some of my favorites. I’m busy holding down the fort, so no written reviews in this column. Just music--100% music--it’s all about the music. Got it?

Without further ado, I present to you Avi’s Crack Slippers (#7):

sAuce & Simpleton - Octopus Footwork

Darth & Vader feat. Laura Brehm - Power Trip (Original Mix)

Derek VanScoten - "The Code" Minimix

And don't forget to check out last weeks edition, Crack Slippers (#6)

Quixotic Releases AXIS as Free Download

Kansas City, Missouri's Quixotic is at it again. Last week they released their new album AXIS, and this week they are giving it away as a FREE download through their Facebook Page. All you have to do is "LIKE" their page. Not so hard, and you get to keep up to date on the current shenanigans of the ensemble.

Artistic Director, musician and composer Anthony Maliano and cohorts Noel Selders (Composer, Co-Musical Producer) and Shane Borth (Violinist, Composer) have out done themselves with their newest soundtrack. Quixotic performances are usually remembered for their jaw-dropping aerial and dance routines, but it is the music that is at the heart of it all. By putting together a fresh unique musical blend to serve as the accompaniment to their artistic stage vision, Magliano and company have also put together an album worthy of standing alone. It is, as they so eloquently put it, "a soaring, rich, dark, cinematic journey where thick electronic textures and synthesizers meet strings, world music, and mallet percussion". Think Thievery Corporation and Phutureprimitive had a baby.

Get to the FREE Download Here

New promo video and sneak preview from Stratus

by Anand Harsh

We're not above making meterological puns, so here goes: Stratus is on cloud 9, of late. He made a slammin' appearance at The Congress in Chicago with Feed Me, Skream & Benga, and Plastician a couple of weeks ago, and then got himself added to Spring Awakening with Skrillex, Afrojack, Datsik, Diplo, LoBounce, and a thousand other monstrous acts. So with all the good karma flowing his way, it was time to return the favor. Enjoy this fist-pumping new vid, with all its shiny colors and strobing goodness, and also get lost in his new banger "88 MAGNUM"--this is an exclusive sneak peak of what's coming around the bend...

Madison House signs Cosby Sweater, family-friendly hilarity ensues

by Anand Harsh
A new sax-ified electro act is pouncing on the scene. Indianapolis-based Cosby Sweater (yeah, it is the greatest band name) fuses the worlds of high-powered bass music with underground hip-hop sensibilities, and the sultry sounds of saxomophone. Its three members are veterans to the live music scene, though they might be more closely associated with the jam community. Dave Embry, a.k.a. DJ Embryo is best known as one half of Embryonic Fluid with keys maniac Ashton Kleemann (Eumatik). He brings his DJ and production experience to the table, along with a healthy dose of bass. Nick Gerlach is the sax star of the Midwest's favorite sensual and funky all-stars, The Twin Cats, who have been dazzling audiences and making fans of major players in the biz (most notably Umphrey's McGee) for years. Gerlach has been blowing for nigh on a decade, now, and it's time for him to step out even further into the spotlight. Rounding out the trio on drums is local legend Richard "Sleepy" Floyd who likes moonlight walks on the beach and Sunday naps. He's also providing some solid backup in the live setting as evidenced by the live clip below.

Younger than the mayo in your fridge, Cosby Sweater has already been snapped up by the sharp eyes (and ears) over at Madison House Inc. Sensing much potential in this high-flying project, the booking and publicity powerhouse has added the Sweater to their roster that already includes Bassnectar, EOTO, Rubblebucket, String Cheese, and most every cool act on the festival scene today. They've also nabbed Dan Rucinski (Digital Tape Machine) and his Igloo Agency for management. Smooth move.

Speaking of festivals and such, many announcements regarding impending dates are forthcoming, so keep a lookout for the Coz, because he's coming. And he looks damn good.

Gemini: Fire Inside EP Review

By: Jordan CalvanoAs the EDM scene continues to progress at an incredibly rapid rate, it has become evident that producers are starting to pop up at a younger age every single year. Artists like Madeon, Fytch, and Getter have proven age truly means nothing, and it’s all about the ability to grasp the attention of listeners with creative new sounds and by getting your name out there.

A prime example of this phenomenon is the 21-year-old breakout producer from Leicester, Britain who goes by the name Gemini (Thomas Slinger). Slinger is an incredibly talented artist who has found his niche in his respective genre by releasing a slew of consistently impressive releases with a desire to continually change up his style and always create something new. He is a hard working producer who has been going real hard in the paint these last few years, while constantly improving and honing in on his sonic signature since he dropped the monumental Blue EP in 2011. Gemini has since released the groundbreaking synth heavy Graduation EP, an earthquake of acollaboration with Feed Me, and of course serotonin heightening remixes of artists like Ed Sheeran, Lana Del Ray, and Fenech-Soler.

On his latest burst of energy, the Fire Inside EP released via Inspected, we see Slinger putting on his Batman cape and bursting off with his new sounds into the night sky to save the world.

The EP opens up with the title track, which is a synth pounding electro house cut that features a whirlwind of original vocals from Greta Svabo Bech, which together combine to create a dance floor worthy track that will have any crowd going mad. Ample wobbles and slowed down piano sections make this track even more intriguing when the bass kicks back in with a fiery roar.

“No Way Out,” is a pulsing tornado of a song that features immersive, nostalgic synths and the sentimental vocals of Slinger himself as heard on many of his previous tracks like “Blue” and “Graduation”

“To The World,” is a much heavier and crunchy dubstep cut that posseses passionate vocal samples, face melting capabilities, and just like sample states before the drop, “This one is serious.”

“Nothingness,” is a chilled out piano anthem that shows Slinger’s true musical talents and his ability to create something beautiful and entrancing. Close your eyes, lay your head back, and let the music take you away.

Fire Inside is nothing short of impressive; a release from a young producer who has shown his continuous improvement and progression on every track he has put out. Play the EP from start to finish and notice the many different sides of the musical face Gemini shows on this release.

Manic Focus: Definition of the Rhythm Review

By: Ty Allen

Get ready to groove people, because when Manic Focus, formally known as John “JmaC” McCarten, starts making music, you’ll have no choice. The classically trained Twin Cities native has been honing his skills for more than a decade and just a few weeks ago, when he released his increasingly popular track “Circles,” any suspicions about his production prowess dissolved. If you haven’t heard “Circles” yet, definitely check it out, it has an amazing video in tandem, but go ahead and give Definition of Rhythm your attention for now, you won’t be disappointed.

Exquisitely transforming beautifully orchestrated music into scientifically crafted, wavy bangers is something that just seems to happen whenever Manic creates a new track, and every one of these has that defining characteristic. His ability to take you from a calm, soothing build, through a wormhole of tranquility, then dropping you off in a realm of wonderful madness only to carry you back again, is astounding. Track 4, “Perspectives” is probably the earliest, most evident instantiation of such an ability; using ergonomic sounds that seem to just carry you away, until you get blasted in the face with bass.

Not shying away from the hip-hop culture of Chi-town is another thing Manic does best. As soon as the music starts in many of his songs, there’s an ominous feeling that there’s going to be rap, or some lyricism, dropped at any moment, but, while Manic artfully crafts chopped up vocals and sampling into his songs, they are all original tracks on this album. But, Manic definitely puts his sampling on display in the latter half of the album, in songs like “Kareoke”, where he magically concocts a musical potion of hit 90’s songs, and “Big Guns” and “That ThanG”, where the hip-hop influence and use of vocals are both certainly evident and uniquely instituted throughout. If you haven’t started listening yet, please, do yourself a favor and hit play. Just don’t forget to turn up that bass.

The Celebration of April 19th, 1943 Through Art and Creation - Bicycle Day RE:CREATION in San Francisco

By: Natty Morrison

A funny thing happened on April 19, 1943. While working on a new, relatively unknown compound named lysergic acid diethylamide, scientist Albert Hoffman accidentally absorbed some of the chemical through his skin. Three days later, Hoffman, having been impressed by the drug’s effects, intentionally ingested 250 micrograms of LSD. Feeling as though he may have taken too much, Albert went for a bike ride. It was during this ride that Hoffman underwent a life-changing experience. Hoffman had no idea he’d embarked on the world’s first LSD trip, nor did he have any idea of the social implications that would come from this laboratory accident, but from that day forward, the world of art, philosophy, music, and culture would never be the same. Since then, April 19 has held a special place in the psychedelic warrior’s heart. And all across the country, heads will be celebrating it in their own way.

If you’re lucky enough to be anywhere near San Francisco, I suggest you make your way to 1015 Folsom for the Official Symbiosis Pre-Party. Euphonic Conceptions “Bicycle Day RE:CREATION” will be hosted by visionaries Alex and Allyson Grey. The night will be a celebration of art and creation, with live visuals and painting by Jonathan Singer, the Further Collective, Tribe13 Collective and first time collaborations between Alex Grey and artist Mars-1. But the night will also be a celebration of music, with sets by Michal Menert, Ana Sia, Heyoka, David Starfire, Chron4, Flying Skulls, Kitty D and many, many more. There will be four rooms of music and the party goes until 4am! Tickets are $30 at the door and also available HERE.

Michal Menert – “Lemme Tell You”

Ana Sia - “Hybrid Vigor Mix”

Heyoka - “Intergalactic Carnival Minimix”

David Starfire - “Get Up Stand Up (Dubstep Remix)”

The Flying Skulls - “The Dude Abides”

Kitty-D - “That ThanG”

Klaypex: Ready to Go Review

By: Jordan Calvano

What do you get when you mix danceable beats, breath taking synth lines, head bobbing vocal samples, and a dollop of monster dub tones?

Well if your guess was the momentous and exceedingly impressive music of Klaypex, than you win all the marbles. The Miami collective of Johnny Atar and Mark Emmanuel has been kicking ass and tacking names via their hailstorm of fierce electro house and eccentric dubstep grooves that get a crowd going H-A-M till 8 am. They have been working hard these last few years to create a sensational sound that could bring raise the dead, which can be felt on their debut album Loose Dirt and critically acclaimed remixes of Ellie Goulding, Daft Punk, and Innerpartysystem.

On their latest release, Ready to Go, Klaypex busts opens up the floodgates and drenches their fans with a sonic tsunami.

The title track sets the pace and tone for the album and asks the listener the very important question; “Are you ready to go?” The cut features a prominent serving of in-your-face synth bursts and substantial drops that weave their through bright snare hits.

The release also strikes with a slew of massive electro house anthems that are the perfect driving force for any fan of the potent and energetic sounds that are developing out of Florida. “Crazy” is a jaw dropping bass whompin’ cut that is perfect track for partying on a nice sunny day, while “Hello” is a dance hall banger that will have any crowd going rowdy while throwing their fists in the air.

“Too Late” strikes with eerie vocals and charismatic soundwaves that together combine to create one of the more emotive tracks on the release.

The beautiful vocals of Sara Kay appear on two tracks as they did on the previous Klaypex album, and make a huge splash into the waters of Miami Beach. “Sunrise” is a sensual bass filled treat that will relinquish the stresses of anyone and have them dancing the night away, while “Stars” is a snare driven, mouth watering dubby cut that chops up Kay’s vocals at times to establish a gritty yet captivating sound throughout.

Ready to Go is an incredible release from artists who are not afraid to mesh multiple genres and mix them together in a tasty musical stew that is complete with spicy vocals and a healthy serving of in your face soundscapes.

Knife Party: Fire Hive (Krewella fuck on me Remix)

The windy city's tenacious trio is turning up the heat this spring with their latest release-- a high-energy, reggae-tinged remix of Knife Party's "Fire Hive." Riddled with air horns and Rasta exclamations, Krewella continues to do what the group does best by combining their signature sultry vocals with vicious dubstep drops. Despite the sensuality of the track, their "fuck on me" remix provides an aggressive twist to the English duo's dubstep anthem. Check out their original "Killin' It" available now on iTunes and keep a look out for their EP due this spring!

Krewella is an electro trio from Chicago consisting of sisters Jahan and Yasmine Yousaf as well as Kris "Rain Man" Trindl. Their promise to "make you wet.... one song at a time" has seemed to be effective as they continue to take the world by storm. Seamlessly merging infectious pop-infused melodies with growling modulated bass, the Krew is unafraid to defy norms in EDM music.

Morgan Page - "In The Air" Released

After months of waiting, Morgan Page's new album is out today.

In The Air sees Page evolve into an inspirational powerhouse in his own right. He builds his own space in the middle of the pop and electro worlds sonically. Page affirms, "This record exists between the club and pop worlds with a little bit of indie thrown in there as well. I wanted to try some new flavors and attitudes, while keeping my sound intact. At the end of the day, its really about the song."

Album Preview:

iTunes Purchase Link: http://bit.ly/HbD9t4

Language Love: Amor Creador Review

By: Ty Allen
Constructing genre-bending music is an understatement when talking about young producer Treven Crist, a.k.a. Language Love. There’s no easy way to describe his approach to music, but if you haven’t heard Language Love in action yet, you simply wouldn’t understand. Blending a multitude of instruments, styles, and cultures into his music seems to be something that just comes naturally to him. He uses tablas (small Indian drums), guitars, violins, and even sitars (a long-necked Indian lute) when composing his music, but then he takes the worldly influenced melodies and turns them on their heads, intricately injecting huge bass wobbles and glitch-work to create, what he calls, awesome meditation music that people can shake their asses to…aptly named.

Recently, Crist introduced the world to his Amor Creador EP, and it is nothing short of stellar. Every track has an incredible quality of congealing deep and dark sounds with smooth, uplifting harmonies, and morphing the song back and forth between moods, with an impeccable ability to immerse listeners into very deliberate atmospheres.

Crist has rocked all three Manifestation Celebrations, played alongside the likes of Shpongle, VibeSquaD, and Beats Antique, and has even performed at presentations given by the renowned visionary artist, Alex Grey. There’s really no way to compare Language Love’s style, it just envelopes so much of what people call music, it seems we might as well leave it at that…music. We are extremely proud to bring you Amor Creador, and we hope you all enjoy. So sit back, turn up that bass, and get ready for an intergalactic joy ride through the new sonic frontiers of global glitch.

Energy Alchemist: A Moment of Clarity Review

By: Kerry McNeil

From the hills of Mendocino County, CA, Energy Alchemist has released its first full-length album on Beatport. Full of glitchy dubstep, heavy basslines, and even a touch of reggae-inspired melodies, A Moment of Clarity is an LP the group describes as “musical gold,” which makes sense for a band of alchemists. After listening to A Moment of Clarity, It’s not difficult to see what members Bill Hankins, Tommy Shannon, and Jared Gordon mean by gold—and clearly contributors Top Shelf, Selector Science, Kiran Music Project, and Dove from Black Rock City Allstars saw it, too. With such a large number of hands crafting this album, the raw energy was certainly there to create the alchemy that the group seeks.

Starting with “What Is,” Energy Alchemist quickly dives into a heavy, pulsing bassline and triumphant sirens. Spurts of sparkling synths give the track a spacey feel, as do a dose of wobble and a smattering of fast-paced drums.

Balancing grinding wobbles against a bouncing reggae guitar melody, Energy Alchemist meshes two very different sounds on tracks like “Hollow,” and “Freq of Nature.” “Hollow,” even employs a few vocal samples such as, “The wobble is one manifestation that many people have noticed. They don’t know what to make of it,” that then lead into—you guessed it—more harsh wobbles.

And by using samples from Top Shelf’s 2011 album The Sound, Energy Alchemist really ups the reggae feel on “Moonlights (Night Patrol),” “Grace Awakes,” and “We Still Burn,” with Top Shelf’s smooth vocals, making sure to contrast the smoothness with blistering glitchy wobbles, bouncing guitar melodies, and more vocal samples.

A driving synth melody on “Just Ask,” is accompanied by crashing bass, cymbals, and bubbling synths that lend more back to the spacey feel of “What Is,” than to the reggae feel of some of the other tracks. Similarly, “Sweatin’ Bangers,” starts with ominous strings and transitions into a glitchy melody that leans more toward the galactic vibe of earlier tracks.

Ending with “Sunburst (Kiran Notez Remix),” featuring Selector Science, Energy Alchemist brings together a simple piano melody, banging cymbals, airy synths, groaning wobbles, and many vocal samples including a very distinct ‘uh-oh.’ Balancing reggae influences and a strong love of pulsating wobbly glitch, Energy Alchemist’s debut is a great start with a host of energetic contributors. Simply put, as the group describes it on their Facebook page, “Close your eyes, open your mind, and watch the alchemy take place.”

Minnesota: Astral Projection Mix

By: Jordan CalvanoIf your ears have yet to hear the sweet and incredibly fine-tuned sounds of Christian Bauhofer, aka Minnesota, then they must be attached to your head, which was delicately placed under a rock.

The Santa Cruz-based producer has made a name for himself these last few years by bursting out a slew of energetic and rhythmic cuts that were meant to get people going. He has a knack for piecing together momentous soundscapes with highflying bass tones that combine to create memorable cuts. When Bauhofer first started busting out his limitless sounds on the world he was enrolled in UC Santa Cruz, but eventually decided it was time to pursue and focus more on music. The decision paid off in a big way, because every since he has been churning out buttery ruckus and rocking venues across the States. The red headed boy wonder has put out massive cuts on Simplify Recordings and MalLabel, while also releasing a laundry list of essential remixes from artists like Ellie Goulding, Kaskade, Sander Van Doorn, and NiT GriT.

On his latest burst of musical madness, Bauhofer presents his fans with the 25-minute free Astral Projection mix to show them what he has been doing in the studio as of late.

Opening up the mesmerizing and monstrous mix is the unreleased track “Relax.” The appropriately titled song features eerie self-help samples and an atmospheric synth line that guides the listeners mind through a world of powerful music and positive energy.

Two remixes find their way onto the dynamic mix, in the form of switch ups from well-know artists Modeseleketor and Notorious B.I.G. “Gimme The Loot,” packs a bubbly and dubby punch that is the perfect background noise for the confident words of Biggie which continue over the next track “Purple Daze,” while “Let Your Love Grow” adds groovy and charismatic synths to the already bouncy reggae cut.

Three more forthcoming releases riddle their way throughout this potent mix, and truly show how far Bauhofer has come as a producer in a few short years. “To the Floor,” is a massive crowd-pleasing slump that possesses out of this world string sections and head banging vocal samples, while “Stay Strong” is a psychedelic and immersive serving of intelligently crafted bass music. “Astral Projection” is a musical massage to the head that will leave any listener entranced till the song ends, and than instantly have them begging for more Minnesota.

The Astral Projection mix is a great success. Each song will leave any fan of Minnesota jumping up and down while counting down the days till these bass filled treats are released.

EOTO + Kraddy Photo Slideshow / Neighborhood Theatre (Charlotte, NC) / 4.07.12

Photos By: Kat Reid

EOTO + Kraddy Photo Slideshow / Neighborhood Theatre (Charlotte, NC) / 4.07.12

Bassnectar: "Vava Voom" Album Premiere

Bassnectar: "Vava Voom" Album Premiere

Tracklist
1. Vava Voom (feat. Lupe Fiasco)
2. Empathy
3. Ugly (feat. Amp Live)
4. Ping Pong
5. What (feat. Jansten)
6. Pennywise Tribute
7. Do It Like This (feat. ill.Gates)
8. Laughter Crescendo [2012 Version]
9. Butterfly (feat. Mimi Page)
10. Nothing Has Been Broken (feat. Tina Malia)
11. Chronological Outtakes

PLM Spring Tour Photo Slideshow / Neighborhood Theatre (Charlotte, NC) / 03.28.12

PLM Spring Tour Photo Slideshow / Neighborhood Theatre (Charlotte, NC) / 03.28.12

Featuring Break Science, Gramatik, and Paul Basic

Photos By : Shaun Hollingsworth (www.sicimages.com)

Jack Beats @ EPR 196 (San Francisco, CA) Video

A Vizual Jockey & 5AM Films (Sam Leabo) Production
http://www.facebook.com/VizualJockey

EPR
www.b33sf.com
http://www.facebook.com/ElectroPopRocks

Shot on March 28th 2012 at:

City Nights
715 Harrison St,
San Francisco, CA 94105

Soundtrack:
Jack Beats - Deeper Master
Jack Beats - Elevator Music
Does It Offend You (Jack Beats Remix)

Desert Dwellers: Downtemple Dub Remixed Review

by Jordan Calvano

In today’s current EDM landscape, it seems too many producers are excessively focused on creating the filthiest or grimiest sound. While this can be entertaining at times, it goes without saying that there is so much more depth to the world of bass.

One act is taking their respective scene to a whole new dimension—Desert Dwellers. Its members spread across the southwest, northwest, and Socal, the collective consisting of Amani Friend, Treavor Moontribe, and Rara Avis has spent the last few years perfecting a fine-tuned sound that is both creative and exceedingly euphoric. The trio of temple-step producers got their start in the Southern California dance frontier known as Moontribe, and in making sonic strides have been able to craft a mesmerizing sound that combines the past, present, the future. Their effervescent and immersive music is nothing short of a sonic boom of electricity and soulful passion, which is demonstrated on releases like Muladhara Yoga Dub and the Spaces Between EP.

The group’s latest album takes bits and pieces from some of their previous releases and lets a crew of talented producers take a crack at their already impressive music on Downtemple Dub: Remixed.

Opening up the uplifting and exciting album is “Point of Awakening,” which is remixed by Androcell. The track features tribal rhythms, mystical instrumentations, and at times a benevolent reggae style bounce that will have anyone’s head moving to the beat.

“More Than Anything,” by Love and Light possesses a magical, bubbly soundscape and Middle Eastern vocal samples that will bridge the gap between mind and soul in a heartbeat.

Two tracks appear in a big way from the Oakland producer Drumspyder. “Tala Odyssey,” is a groovy bongo bumping cut that will transport the listener’s mind right to the jungles of Africa, while “Bodhi Mandala” will induce immediate relaxation and have them running to the place where this entrancing music is best enjoyed: the yoga mat.

Kaminada and and Kayla Scintilla both step up to the plate in a huge way on this album. “Dragon’s Mist,” is a sensual and diligently crafted cut that features out of this world vocals, while “Lotus Heart,” will take any listener on a journey through endless untraveled dimensions and open the listeners soul to limitless possibilities while a symphonic didgeridoo funk guides your way.

Downtemple Dub: Remixed is a smooth and impressive album from start to finish that is the perfect music to relax you, or even to guide you on a world class adventure. Each artist brings their own unique sound to the release while still giving listeners a taste of the endless musical beauty that DD bring to the table, or better yet the desert.

New Monthly Party Brings Love-step to the East Bay

In the last few years there has been a massive migration, almost an exodus, of artistic types (“burners”, if you will) to the East Bay from San Francisco. The lower rent and cultural diversity of Oakland (and Berkeley to an extent) has catalyzed this relocation in a major way. Yet most of the night-time, regular electronic dance events that these burner-types attend still go down in San Francisco.

A new Oakland based production company is teaming up with The New Parish, a downtown Oakland dance club, and have just announced that they are launching a new monthly party, on the first Saturdays of the month. The series, presented by The New Parish and Win ∆ Win Pro, will be called HOME BASS and starts on April 7th with an event featuring Toronto based producer ill.Gates and recent transplant to the east bay from LA, producer R/D.

“This niche for a regular event of this type in the east bay is obvoius” says Michael O'Conner, owner of The New Parish “I'm just surprised that there's not a regular club night for bass music in the east bay already”. The New Parish's two rooms (as Hibiscus Restarant has been reshaped into a second staging area for large parties), intimate feel yet large capacity, outdoor courtyard, and prominent downtown location are only a few of the features that make the space perfect for an event of this kind, says O'Conner.

Win ∆ Win Pro is a new venture for Robin Tala, who is also the founder and director of Cyphertown Productions, a company which debuted as the first stage and theme camp for live hip hop performance at Burning Man in '07. Since then Tala has produced over 25 events in the Bay Area, many of which have been fundraisers for social and environmental causes. “Working with FreQ Nasty, Karsh Kale and Cheb I Sabbah at 1015 Folsom was the prime example of how the party scene can raise funds to profoundly effect social change” says Tala, “we raised over $6,000 for the Tibetan People's Uprising Movement just before the Beijing Olympic Games, spotlighting the Tibetans plight for spiritual and cultural freedom, and encouraged people to protest the Olympic Torch being run through San Francisco”.

HOME BASS is debuting at The New Parish at 579 18th St. Oakland on April 7th with ill.Gates, R/D featuring vocalist Swan, FreakFunk (a.k.a. Lafa Taylor), MiHKAL and Malarkey and continues on May 5th with Pumpkin, RussLiquid, Miss Erica Dee, NicoLuminous and Feldt and June 2nd with Kaminanda, The Human Experience, Oshan Anand, Tinker and BELI3VER. The event begins at 9pm and goes until 2am for those 21+. For More info please visit www.thenewparish.com or www.winwinpro.biz

Avi's Crack Slippers (#6)

Each week, I will select some of my favorites. I’m busy holding down the fort, so no written reviews in this column. Just music--100% music--it’s all about the music. Got it?

Without further ado, I present to you Avi’s Crack Slippers (#6):

Love and Light - SoX uR RoCk Off

Modulation - Groovy Movie

Rusko - Skanker

Str8jackets - Love & Oxygen (XILENT Remix)

Nero - Must Be The Feeling (Kill The Noise Remix)

SLDGHMR - D.I.Y (Singularity Remix)

Figure - Must Destroy (Wick-it the Instigator Remix)

And don't forget to check out last weeks edition, Crack Slippers (#5)

Project Aspect: Time Capsule Review

By: Jordan Calvano

A couple weeks ago we presented you with an incredibly potent and charismatic release from Denver musician Project Aspect titled Remixes Vol. 2. Aspect not only creates uplifting and emotional remixes, but actually re-creates the instrumentals to all the songs he flips, in order to make each of them his own. So it comes as no surprise that when he is releasing an album of all original tracks, he is on top of his game.

Jay Jaramillo is a musical mastermind. He has the uncanny ability to combine a slew of genres like crunk, IDM, soul, dub, and glitch-hop; then mix them up in a musical soup and create tasty treats that are perfect for serving up at any event he plays. Aside from the aforementioned remixes that include switch ups of artists like Ellie Goulding, Iyaz, 2pac, and Benny Bennassi, Jaramillo has also blasted off roof-lifting original tracks like the ones off his dance worthy 2011 release Put This World on Hold.

On his most recent release Time Capsule, from 1320 Records, Jaramillo steps up his game and takes the listener on a jazzy joy ride that weaves its way through pumped up crescendos and mystical symphonies.

Opening up the album is “Tina Turnon,” which strikes immediately with light chimes and an ominous build up that eventually drops into a magical groove that is reminiscent of the original from Star Wars.

“White Girls Doing Homework,” possesses catchy low bass tones and chopped up samples from the great Big L, which combine to create a funky jazzstep cut that will remind listeners of tracks from fellow Colorado producer Pretty Lights. The song is a momentous step for the musical career of Jay Jaramillo, and shows how quickly he is improving.

“Spacey Jazz Odyssey,” is a witty and creative orchestra that will uplift the mind and soul of anyone entranced into the music of Project Aspect, and have them dancing in place wherever they might be.

“Rainy Daze,” is a captivating and mesmerizing track that is perfect for days inside when the onslaught of the elements are striking. The songs chilled out groove with have any listener closing their eyes and drifting off from start to finish.

Burn these songs on a CD, put them in a solid container, and then bury them away because future generations need to know about the musical revolution that is upon us. Time Capsule is another solid release to add to the collection of any listener who loves Project Aspect, or just any die hard EDM fan who is looking for another sensational artist stemming from the Colorado sound movement.

ProJect Aspect

Time Capsule

Download M3U »

Ruff Hauser: Just the Tip EP Review

By: Jamie Reysen

Socal producer Ruff Hauser’s latest EP, released last month via Simplify Recordings, is a series of dub-infused glitch hop tracks and remixes. Just the Tip is comprised of five original bangers, a VIP edit done by Ruff Hauser himself, and two remixes – one from Stephan Jacobs and the other by HeavenlyFather.

Just the Tip kicks off with the foreboding, drum- and bass-heavy beats of “Lucid,” before segueing into the EP’s strongest cut, “Time of our Lives.” This dubstep dance floor track merges airy synth sections with manipulated vocal samples and some serious bass, resulting in the EP’s most memorable production.

“Time of our Lives” gets a makeover by Ruff Hauser through his “VIP Sunshine Edit,” which is then remixed by Stephan Jacobs, fellow Simplify Recordings producer. Jacobs’ edit of the track features a more deliberate percussion, speedier beats, and chopped samples of, well, chopped samples – all of which come together to give the track a unique edginess.

The EP’s other remixed track is “E lip tickle,” edited by California producer HeavenlyFather, who adds an additional layer of warped bass to Ruff Hauser’s wompy, yet somehow ethereal, original track.

Next up is “Quazar,” another standout track, which integrates melodic synth lines with waves of distorted bass and choppy female vocals. Bringing the EP to a close is “Joof,” a speedier track filled with manipulated samples and rhythmic digital beats.

Just the Tip is another great release for the dubstep and glitch hop fans out there.
You can listen to it on Simplify Recording’s Soundcloud or buy the EP through Addictech.

EDC Las Vegas 2012 Lineup

“Last year’s introduction to Las Vegas was a remarkable event for Insomniac, gathering more than 230,000 people in the desert for an exciting new chapter in Electric Daisy Carnival history,” said Pasquale Rotella, founder and CEO of Insomniac Events. “As dance music continues to explode on a global scale, we’ll continue to push the boundaries of what makes Insomniac unique: a fully immersive festival experience that features hundreds of theatrical performers, interactive art installations, pyrotechnics and special effects, state of the art production, not to mention the largest stage in North America. I’m excited to share what we’ve been developing since last year’s show with our incredible fans.”

Consistently devoted to creating a multisensory experience within each festival, Insomniac has established a unique partnership to bring the Las Vegas Strip to the EDC attendees. Blue Man Group will bring a captivating experience to the fans. Wildly popular around the world, Blue Man Group defies simple description. This explosion of color, humor, music, and technology comes to life every night in the custom-built Blue Man Group theatre at The Venetian® in Las Vegas and live performance installations in six other cities across four continents.

This year’s festival will also bring European hardstyle powerhouse, Q-dance, to fans in Las Vegas for the company’s first ever debut in the United States. Adding a seventh stage, Insomniac and Q-dance have come together to bring the harder styles of dance music to EDC attendees for three full nights.

The Bassrush stage will be returning to EDC for a second year in Las Vegas, and the bass-music brand will be featuring a smaller festival in Las Vegas on the Thursday of EDC Week.

Insomniac will transform the Speedway into a completely interactive carnival experience featuring an additional 500 theatrical performers, including fire twirlers, aerialists, dancers, and stilt walkers, plus numerous full size amusement rides and attractions that are free for all ticket holders. The 1,000-acre complex will become a fully immersive audiovisual experience with dynamic large-scale art installations creating interactive environments amidst the seven stages, along with state-of-the-art lighting and sound production and a pyrotechnics display and military flyover nightly.

Tickets and travel packages are still available at www.electricdaisycarnival.com. The complete line-up and final schedule, plus information on the VIP experience and table reservations will be announced in the near future..

16 bit || Above & Beyond || Adventure Club || Afrojack || Alesso || Aly & Fila || AN21 & Max Vangeli || Andy C: ALIVE || Angger Dimas || Armin van Buuren || Arty || A*S*Y*S* || ATB || Avicii || Bassjackers || Bassnectar || Bassrush Experience || Benny Benassi || Blue Man Group || Borgore || Brennan Heart || Calvin Harris || Camo & Krooked || Carl Cox || Chase and Status || Chris Lake || Chuckie || Circuit || Coone || Cosmic Gate || Crizzly || Dada Life || Danny Tenaglia || Darksiderz || Dash Berlin || Datsik || David Guetta || D-Block & S-te-Fan || Deco || Delta Heavy || Dennis Ferrer || Dieselboy vs Bare || Digitalism || Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike || Dirty South || Dirtyphonics Live || DJ Ammo || Dodge & Fuski || Downlink || Doctor P || Dubfire || Eco || Ed Rush & Optical || El Pulpo Mechanico || Emalkay || Endymion || Erick Morillo || Excision || Feed Me || Felix Cartal || Ferry Corsten || Figure || Flux Pavilon || Flying Lotus Girls || Funkagenda || Funtcase || Fury || Gabriel & Dresden || Gaiser || Gareth Emery || Green Velvet || Hardwell || Harvard Bass || Headhunterz || High Contrast || Hype || Isaac || Jack Beats || Jaytech || JDX || Joachim Garraud || Jochen Miller || John Digweed || John Rundell || Josh Wink || Kaskade || Kill the Noise || Knife Party || Koan Sound || Kristina Sky || Kyau & Albert || Lady Faith || Laidback Luke || Little Boots || Loadstar || Loco Dice || Magda || Manufactured Superstars || Markus Schulz || Martin Solveig || Mat Zo || Michael Woods || Moby || Modestep || Morgan Page || MSTRKRFT || Mt Eden || NERVO || Nicky Romero || Nicole Moudaber || Night Owl Experience || Noisia || Paco Osuna || Porter Robinson || Pretty Lights || Q-dance || Rank 1 Live || R3hab || Richie Hawtin presents Enter. || Sander van Doorn || Sebastian Ingrosso || Sidney Samson || Steve Angello || Steve Aoki || Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano || Technoboy || Thomas Gold || Tiësto || Tommy Trash || Tritonal || UMEK || W&W || Wide Awake Art Car || Wilkinson || will.i.am || Zany || Zeds Dead || Zomboy
+ more to be announced

Two Fresh & NiT GriT (The No Antidote Tour) Review / McDonald Theater (Eugene, OR) / 03.27.12

By: Jordan Calvano

The No Antidote Tour finally made its way into Eugene, Oregon, on Tuesday, and it did not disappoint. The tour, which is spanning the country over 40 dates, features two of the country’s brightest young bass talents, NiT GriT and Two Fresh. Although much of Eugene was on spring break, the show was still able to draw an ample crowd; and while not as large as some recent EDM events at the spacious McDonald Theater, it made for a much more intimate experience.

The first headliner to take the stage was the burgeoining Asheville, North Carolina trio known as Two Fresh. The group features twin producers Kendrick and Sherwyn Nicholls, and live drummer Colby Buckler, who together crafted a breathtaking show from beginning to end.
The drums echoed deafening snare hits each time Buckler let loose. The brothers Nicholls were rocking out with incredible passion behind their monitors, and even went wild near the end of their set and each spit a hot 16 bars and a couple choruses over one of their own songs. Finishing off the set, Two Fresh dropped an incredible cut featuring samples from Waka Flocka Flame yelling, “It’s a Party,” which sealed the deal on their diverse and groundbreaking performance.

After a short intermission, Danny Beall, better known as NiT GriT, strode onto the stage. The San Jose native has proved over the last few years that he is a force to be reckoned with, and an absolutely diligent worker who knows nothing but perfecting his sounds and unleashing them like a bulldozer on his fans.

Before he could even start playing the crowd was yelling, “We Love you Danny,” and, “Oh Danny Boy,” which cracked a grin from ear to ear. Although once his set began he got right down to business, and so did the crowd. With each song Beall dropped the dedicated audience inched closer to the stage and became more immersed in his bass whompin’ tones, like musical whiplash. Beall was asking questions like, “Eugene you feeling this shit?” and “You ready to get rowdy?” with the obvious answer being a gigantic uproar from the crowd which only encouraged him to go even harder.

GriT was dropping floor-shattering originals like “Purple” and “The Mechanism of Control,” while also delivering fan favorite remixes of Love & Light and Stellamara. Not to mention uplifting collaborations with Stephan Jacobs, who together producer under the quirky title Pizza Party. The crowd demanded an encore, and Beall delivered with a quick paced drum and bass track that he usually doesn’t play, but felt Eugene was special enough to hear it.

The No Antidote Tour was a hit. It combined great artists, amazing light and stage setups, and a young crowd who was ready to get down and show the artists what Eugene is all about. While Two Fresh had played at the McDonald Theater before on the Mothership Tour in October, it was NiT GriT’s first appearance here, and in all of Eugene for that matter, and he without a doubt made the best of it while unleashing his hailstorm of pumped up out-of-this-world music.

Starscape + LOADED: Two HUGE Festivals from Steez (Summer 2012)

Steez Promo and Ultraworld have united once again to bring you the 14th Annual Starscape Festival: The Garden of Eden. On June 9, Fort Armistead Park will be transformed into a festival experience unlike any other. Mind-blowing visual production and performance pieces will dazzle the eyes while the world's best in Electronic Dance Music captivate the ears.

This year's Main Stage will host Flux Pavilion, Ghostland Observatory, Chase & Status, Wolfgang Gartner, Modestep live, The M Machine and Phutureprimitive. The Dub Nation Beach Stage will demolish listeners with sets from Noisia, Skism, Figure, Dillon Francis, Zomboy, Terravita, Schoolboy, Camo & Krooked, Funtcase, J. Rabbit and a special back-to-back set featuring Dieselboy and Bare. Electro and House will be well represented in the Dance Tent as Dada Life, Zedd, Kill The Noise, Lucky Date, Charles Feelgood, Donald Glaude, Tittsworth and Lock Danan will keep bodies moving and sweat pouring from start to stop. At the Sunrise Stage attendees can lose themselves in performances by Adventure Club, Mimosa, Conspirator, Papadosio, Ill-esha, Paper Diamond and Beats Antique. Join us in the Garden of Eden this summer for the most intimate and memorable EDM festival experience available.

June 9th, 2012
2pm – 6am
18+ To Enter
The 14th Annual Starscape Festival: The Garden of Eden
Fort Armistead Park
4000 Ft Armistead Baltimore MD 21226
www.StarscapeFestival.com
Tickets Available at www.Missiontix.com

Full list of performers by stage:

MAIN STAGE
WOLFGANG GARTNER
CHASE & STATUS DJ SET
FLUX PAVILION
SHPONGLE SOUNDSYTEM LIVE
GHOSTLAND OBSERVATORY LIVE
MODESTEP LIVE
M MACHINE
PHUTUREPRIMITIVE

BASS DROP DANCE TENT
DADA LIFE
ZEDD
KILL THE NOISE
DONALD GLAUDE
LUCKY DATE
TITTSWORTH
CHARLES FEELGOOD
LOCK DANAN

THE SUNRISE STAGE
CONSPIRATOR
BEATS ANTIQUE
MIMOSA
PAPADOSIO
ADVENTURE CLUB
PAPER DIAMOND
ILL-ESHA
ALPHA DATA

DUB NATION BEACH STAGE
NOISIA
CAMO & KROOKED
DILLON FRANCIS
FUNTCASE
ZOMBOY
FIGURE
SKISM
TERRAVITA
J RABBIT
SCHOOLBOY

SPECIAL B2B SET
DIESELBOY & BARE

Steez Promo, the team responsible for the legendary Starscape Festival and Massive Festival bring you their newest festival series, as they introduce Loaded Festival. Loaded brings two stages of world-class musical talent to Pennsylvania this May. Loaded Festival hits Philadelphia and Pittsburgh on May 12th and 13th, respectively, bringing the massive multi-stage festival experience to a more intimate environment. This summer Steez Promo invites you to be a part of electronic music's newest festival sensation, so get ready to get Loaded.

May 12, 2012
2pm – 11pm
All Ages
Festival Pier (Philadelphia, PA)
Presented by Steez Promo & Live Nation

Performances by: Rusko, Flux Pavilion, Wolfgang Gartner, Dirtyloud, Downlink, Lucky Date, J. Rabbit, Pierce Fulton, AK1200, Schoolboy & KDrew

Ticketing Information:
VIP & GA Tickets Available (VIP Package includes VIP package, express entry, exclusive VIP viewing area, exclusive Loaded Festival VIP laminate, Loaded Festival T-shirt)

Ticketing Link: http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/02004865EB1A9036?artistid=1704212&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=201

www.loadedfestival.com/philadelphia.html

May 13, 2012
2pm – 11pm
All Ages
Stage A.E. (Pittsburgh, PA)
Presented by Steez Promo

Performances by: Flux Pavilion, Steve Aoki, Wolfgang Gartner, Datsik, Dirtyloud, Chris Lake, Downlink, Lucky Date, Dieselboy, Pierce Fulton, AK1200, Schoolboy & KDrew

GA Tickets Available

Ticket Link: http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/16004868CC4B828B?artistid=1705864&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=201

www.loadedfestival.com/pittsburgh.html

Wakarusa 2012 :: Price Increase on Saturday, April 7th

With Wakarusa 2012 just two months away, Early Bird priced Full Event Passes are moving quickly! Get your Full Event Passes for Wakarusa today before the next price increase on April 7th at 11:59PM!

Ticket Link: http://www.wakarusa.com/2012/tickets.asp

REVOLVR - April 2012 Tour Dates

Two Worlds Apart (Released 3/26/12):

www.soundcloud.com/revolvr

www.facebook.com/revolvr

Gramatik drops Free #digitalfreedom EP

By: Ty Allen

Download the album for FREE: http://www.prettylightsmusic.com/therecordlabel

Well, boys and girls, we hope you’re ready, because today Slovenian-born producer Gramatik, has released a free, 6-song album, solely for our listening pleasure. A veteran of sonic construction, the DJ started dabbling in classical piano, rock, funk, R&B, and everything in between during his elementary school years, and has continued evolving.

Gramatik’s forte is hip-hop, which is definitive of his style for those who are unfamiliar with his work, but this album is yet another deviation from the norm, in as much Gramatik himself stated that, “…to those who know me only by my chilled out hip-hop beatz: don’t be scared when you hear this EP, my true fans know that I’m nothing if not versatile. Good music is larger than one genre so just open your mind, absorb the vibes and you’ll be versatile too!”

As soon as the second track “Flavors” dropped, this was more than evident. Gramatik has seemed to take his incredible, already diverse style, and just go crazy on the heavy bass & glitch work, and it’s nothing short of brilliant. But, don’t worry you long-time Gramatik fans, his hip-hop blood still runs deep. On “Solidified,” Gramatik combines rapped lyrics and chops them up with technically astounding glitch work, and, as usual, has an intense, yet brilliantly constructed instrumental to back it all up.

With a beautiful balance of classical and futuristic in harmony, Gramatik’s music is easy to listen to, dance to, or just absolutely rage to, especially seeing as he has clearly injected more of a dubstep-feel into this album, and did an excellent job at it, to say the least. Overall, it’s not an overpowering use of bass, as some people still tend to shy away from huge wobbles and heavy glitches, but it works incredibly well to diversify not only his musical style, but his fan base as well. So, music fans, take a note from the man himself: just sit back, open your mind, and let your ears absorb the vibes!