The experience of dancing for the last time inside the super clubs of Ibiza is a singular experience. The last week of September and the beginning of October brings the final call for many of the most popular residencies at Ibiza's top venues. And while there are many closing parties to choose from, we're bringing you the ones you can't miss out on.




Sven Väth presents Catharsis | Club Chinois | Tuesday, September 27

The founder of Cocoon, Sven Väth, will take the stage at the brand-new Club Chinois for one exclusive night this Tuesday. The German artist has heavily influenced Ibiza's dance circuit over the years. This season he has brought unique musical experiences through Catharsis (the name of his thirteen-track album) to the most essential venues playing every party as if it were his last. This will be the final chance to connect with the Ibiza legend this season, don't sleep. Buy tickets to enjoy the last Catharsis show by Sven Väth in Ibiza at Club Chinois.




Follow Sven Väth on Twitter | Instagram | Soundcloud







The Martinez Brothers Closing Party | Hï Ibiza | Tuesday, September 27

The superstar brothers from the Bronx, Chris, and Steve Martinez, conclude their first-ever residency in Ibiza this week. The Martinez Brothers have led one of the hottest nights on the island this summer with their trademark sound that expertly blends techno and house with a distinct New York edge. Next door in the Club Room, Paco Osuna has offered exquisite and forceful techno sounds. Paco and the Martinez Brothers were accompanied by a carefully curated selection of talented DJs, making Tuesdays at Hï Ibiza a must-visit for all dance lovers. For Kerri Chandler, Guti, and Renato Ratier, join them for the final outing alongside a special guest to create a memorable grand finale.

Get tickets for The Martinez Brothers' closing party at Hï Ibiza.




Follow The Martinez Brothers on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







FISHER Closing Party | Hï Ibiza | Wednesday, September 28

From the start of the season, it was obvious FISHER's headlining slot at

the #1 club in the world (as voted by DJMag) was going to be one of the greatest debuts in Ibiza this summer. The Aussie DJ and producer knows how to throw a party, and we have all danced to some of his tracks like "Losing it" or his latest "It's A Killa" (with Shermanology). FISHER will play all night long in the Theatre Room at Hï to conclude the season, while Vintage Culture drops an extended set next door in the Club Room.

Enjoy FISHER's last show at Hï this season




Follow FISHER on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Afterlife Day & Night | Hï & Ushuaïa Ibiza | Thursday, September 29

Italian music duo Tale Of Us present a final glorious show across Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza this Thursday, kicking things off in the open-air at Ushuaïa at 5 pm. The melodic techno pair play two headline sets in both venues (offering a b2b with Maceo Plex outdoors before midnight) and will be joined by Stephan Bodzin (live), Dixon, Mind Against, Sven Väth, Ben Klock B2B Marcel Dettmann, and many more. Purchase combined or separate tickets for Afterlife Grand Finale.




Follow Afterlife on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Solid Grooves Closing Party | DC10 | Thursday, September 29

Solid Grooves, the much-loved party and label with a distinctive deep tech soundtrack wraps up its first DC10 season this Thursday. Founder Michael Bibi joins label mates Dennis Cruz, PAWSA, Ben Sterling, and ANOTR and secret guests. The iconic underground venue DC10 has proven to be the perfect match for the groovers crew, so head over to the Salinas club and enjoy the last Solid Grooves of the year! Purchase your ticket for Solid Grooves Motel Closing party




Follow Solid Grooves on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Defected Closing Party | Eden | Friday, September 30

House music giant Defected is ready to close a fantastic season at San Antonio hotspot Eden. Defected has been at the forefront of the clubbing scene for more than 20 years and culminates its longest-ever season on the last day of September with Simon Dunmore, Mambo Brothers, Low Steppa, and many more. Head over to Defected closing party if you are looking for classic house music and uplifting vibes before the party season finally ends! Purchase your ticket for the Defected closing party at Eden.




Follow Defected on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud




elrow Closing Party | Amnesia | Saturday, October 1

elrow presents a new theme to close the busiest night at Amnesia properly. For the first time, elrow will present its most artistic and avant-garde theme: DELUSIONVILLE, a concept curated by the American contemporary artist Ron English. Metamorphic landscapes and anthropoid animals come to life exclusively at elrow's closing party. Amnesia and elrow have chosen one of the greatest representatives of clubbing culture to headline the show on the terrace, Fatboy Slim, alongside Eats Everything and elrow resident DJs Bastian Bux and Tini Glesser. The Main Room, renamed elrow City, will be occupied exclusively by Kölsch all night long. Dare to join the last elrow event of the summer in Ibiza and discover their new world! Buy your tickets for the elrow closing party and discover its newest theme.




Follow elrow on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud




Storytellers Pangea Closing Party | Cova Santa | Sunday, October 2

A day trip by Storytellers (the team behind WooMooN) finalizes the season with Pangea. The closing is the last opportunity to take an active role in the fairytale world they've created while dancing to an extended set by Red Axes and Audiofly b2b Deer Jade. The event begins outdoors at 6 pm at Cova Santa and follows indoors from midnight till sunrise. Get tickets to enjoy Pangea by Storytellers at Cova Santa.




Follow Storytellers on Instagram | SoundCloud















Ibiza Selects (September 26 – October 2)

Three things are certain in life: Death, taxes, and Four Tet redefining reality with music. On this latest episode of “What Will Kieren Hebden (aka Four Tet) Think of Next,” we see the UK producer take his talents to Chloé Robinson and DJ ADHD’s 909-driven, four-the-floor stomper, “Pax.”







Despite what many people think, a proper banger does not need excessive elements to get the party started. Robinson and ADHD prove their discipline as producers by using space to do just as much as the beat and the bass. Trust me, with an invigorating pulse like this, you’ll want as much breathing room as possible. Four Tet honors this energy, allowing his addition of swelling bass waves and timbre distortion to morph this tune into pure, unadulterated sonic stimulus.



This stand-out track comes off Chloé Robinson’s debut EP, Steamin, marking the full launch of her latest project. Formerly known in dance music circles for over a decade as Barely Legal, the Pretty Weird label head has always been a champion of diversified sounds. From polyrhythmic techno to face-melting dubstep, Robinson has been behind it all. No wonder she’s linked with renowned sonic explorer Four Tet.



Pretty Weird also supports DJ ADHD, a genre-blending UK-based up-and-comer. He’s emerged onto the scene only in the past year but has already gained support from established boundary pushers of sound like Robinson, Nikki Nair, and Villager.

Four Tet Revamps Chloé Robinson & DJ ADHD’s 'Pax'

This past July, São Paulo-born DJ and producer Fernanda Pistelli brought her signature mystical melodies and soundscapes to the crowds of Boom Festival in Portugal. Opening with a Native American Flute piece courtesy of Jessica Ariosi, she channeled waves of fuzzy synth and transcendental beats into a two-and-a-half-hour set. The video gorgeously captures the spirit of Boom Festival and Pistelli's sound, which brilliantly fuses a psychedelic aesthetic and the driving weight of techno,








"Boom is the festival I most admire for its purpose of awakening the world and bringing people together by sharing respect, love, and sustainability," Pistelli explains. "Playing at this festival was the realization of one of my biggest dreams!"




Boom is a transformational, multidisciplinary, psychedelic, and sustainable festival that happens every two years in Idanha-a-Nova, Portugal. Conceived in 1997 as a goa trance-psychedelic party, the festival has since evolved into a biennial global celebration of alternative culture. With a mantra of "Oneness, Music, Peace, Arts, Environment, Culture, and Love," Boom is globally recognized for its independence and leadership in sustainability.




Born and raised in São Paulo, Pistelli left Business Administration College in 2016 and moved to Australia. There, she took up residence at the prestigious Dragonfruit Label Party and one of Brisbane's biggest clubs, The Met.




After returning to Brazil in 2017, she played at the pre-party of Boris Brejcha's "Fckng Serious" event in São Paulo before going on to play at an array of established festivals and clubs worldwide. Pistelli's sound, which fuses elements of progressive house with psy-techno, is inspired by her philosophy on life.




"Life is cyclical, so we are constantly changing, and through music it is possible to find an axis that is in harmony with everything that exists, and that is the key to connect our mind to our body."




Follow Fernanda Pistelli on Soundcloud | Instagram

Follow Boom Festival on Twitter | Instagram | Soundcloud


















































































Fernanda Pistelli Channels Free-Spirited Energy to the Crowds of Boom Festival

September is traditionally when most Ibiza closing parties appear on the events calendar. However, seeing that this is the longest summer season to date, we get to extend those closing parties for more than three weeks. If you’re a dance music lover, making room for one last dance at one of Ibiza’s mega clubs should undoubtedly be at the top of your bucket list.



There’s a reason the White Isle’s clubs rank among the top in the world. And in 2022, the island has reestablished itself as the scene’s epicenter, bringing the best international DJs weekly. In terms of numbers, over 1.3 million passengers arrived at Ibiza's Airport in July, an increase of almost 50% over July 2021, when the coronavirus cut the season short, and clubs weren't even allowed to open until October. And while Ibiza is a popular destination for travelers of all kinds, this record-breaking year indicates that thousands arrive looking for a once-in-a-life party experience.


This year some hotels, beach clubs, and restaurants remain open for the whole month of October, so entertainment is still on the agenda in Ibiza. For loyal clubbers and party lovers, this time of the year is particularly magical, the weather is perfect, and the attitude and mood of the DJs, workers, and residents is relaxed and a little nostalgic.


We've gathered our recommendations for the best parties during closing month in Ibiza.










Hï Ibiza

Proclaimed the world’s #1 club by DJMag in 2022, Hï Ibiza transformed itself into a must-visit on the island in just a few years. Run by The Night League, both Hï and Ushuaïa (Hï's sister venue) have proved to have the best lighting, sound, and production on the island. Both venues have attracted many of the best DJs in the world, hosting their dream weekly residencies.




On Tuesday, September 27, The Martinez Brothers' debut headline residency draws to a close. The boys are bringing American DJ and house producer Kerri Chandler and Argentinian-born Berlin-based Guti, who will perform live. Looking after the Club Room for the last time, Spanish techno stalwart Paco Osuna brings Renato Ratier and a secret special guest for the occasion.









The first headline residency for Australian superstar FISHER ends on Wednesday, September 28. He will play all night long in the Theatre, and Brazilian DJ and producer Vintage Culture will host the Club Room.









Afterlife, led by Italian duo Carmine Conte and Matteo Milleri, known professionally as Tale of Us, take over Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza with a day-to-night Grand Finale on Thursday, September 29, making it the most historic Afterlife closing ever.









David Guetta brings his unique dance sounds to the Future Rave closing party on Friday, September 30, alongside Morten, Idris Elba, and more guests in both rooms.


South African pioneer Black Coffee’s residency concludes on October 1. He first took up his residency at Hï Ibiza in 2017, and he is ready to close the season in style with fellow Drake producer &Me and DJ Kabila. Damian Lazarus will be shutting the Club Room doors too.









Sunday, October 2, brings the last chance to dance at Glitterbox under Hï Ibiza’s roof this summer, serving up house and disco sounds plus an exceptional and immersive atmosphere.









Hï Ibiza will also host a glorious closing party led by some of the club’s most iconic residents, such as The Martinez Brothers and Tale Of Us. In addition, an avalanche of dance icons will join them, including ANNA, Peggy Gou, and Anfisa Letyago, to celebrate Hï’s most successful year since its inception in 2017.









Ushuaïa Ibiza

Hï Ibiza’s sister venue, Ushuaïa, first opened in 2011 and has revolutionized Ibiza again this year. Exclusive one-off events, the best DJs in the world, and trend-setting production have positioned Ushuaïa Ibiza as the sixth of the Top 100 Best Clubs worldwide. Since the beginning of September, the open-air beach club has shut down many of the party residencies. F*** Me I’m Famous, its most-in-demand event guided by David Guetta, will be the last to close on Monday, October 3.




The infamous ANTS Colony is responsible for the final party of the summer. On Saturday, October 8, One More dANTS wraps up the season with a massive house and techno line-up and three special back-to-backs right before the Hï Ibiza Closing Party on the same day.



















DC10

The Mecca for ravers located on Salinas road will close out with the unrivaled Circoloco festival on Monday, October 10, running from 6 pm to early the next morning. The Circoloco and DC10 closing party features 23 artists celebrating 23 years on the radar, a must for all fans of an authentic Ibiza clubbing experience.









The old hangar has been home to some big names on the scene this summer, such as Carl Cox, Amelie Lens, and Patrick Topping, who all celebrated their closing parties in late August. In addition, London record label Solid Grooves has hosted 17 thriving Thursdays at the club and invite underground music lovers to the final dance on Thursday, September 29.












Club Chinois

The island's newest spot, Club Chinois, located in Marina Botafoch (previously Heart Club and Restaurant), opened in June, hosting renowned artists and headlining entertainers. The last parties scheduled for its first-ever Ibiza season are Catharsis by Sven Väth on Tuesday, Colours by Themba on Wednesday, September 28, and Luciano on Saturday, September 30.




The first week of October brings Moon Harbour's exclusive showcase on Tuesday, October 4, A Starry Night by Satori on Thursday, October 6, and the following week, La Troya closes a short season on Monday, October 10.




UNA by Ida Engberg wraps up on Tuesday, October 11. Then, Boho Experience by Camilo Franco starts at Beachouse open-air club during the day on Thursday, October 13. And at midnight, the Colombian DJ and guests move to Chinois to conclude the season.




On Friday, October 14, We're Here by Pablo Fierro brings positive and happy tropical beats one last time to Chinois. And on Sunday, October 16, the decadent new nightspot celebrates its first-ever grand finale.
















Amnesia

Amnesia, one of the oldest clubs in Ibiza, opened in the 70s and has always hosted the longest closing ceremonies, regularly stretching for more than 12 hours. Forget dancing until sunrise; you'll be grooving well into the next afternoon on the Terrace.




But before Amnesia’s official farewell party, elrow will close out the venue's busiest night on Saturday, October 1, with a brand new theme, Delusionville. Paradise—run by Jamie Jones and the Hot Creation crew— finalize The Age of Love, their first ever season at Amnesia, on Wednesday, October 5. And Amnesia's in-house brand, Pyramid, celebrates for two nights Sunday, October 2 and October 9.




Last but not least, the day chosen by the San Rafael nightclub to celebrate its “Not Just Another Closing” event is Saturday, October 15.

Ending with a note of nostalgia, Amnesia announced big beat pioneers, The Chemical Brothers (Ed Simons and Tom Rowlands), who will make their one-and-only appearance in Ibiza this summer on the infamous Terrace. Cuartero, Eats Everything, Marco Faraone and Jamie Jones will take over the Terrace in the AM hours. The Main room will host techno figures such as Nina Kraviz, Luca Donzelli, Kobosil, and more to be announced.














Cova Santa

Born and raised in Ibiza, WooMooN kicked off a few years ago in the beautiful surroundings of the Amnesia-owned Cova Santa venue. A conceptual event that presents nomadic sounds fused with performances, art, nature, food, and magic. The WooMooN closing party coincides with Cova Santa’s last day open this summer on Sunday, October 9.




















Pacha

Until 2018 (with the change of ownership), Pacha was the only club that remained open year-round in Ibiza for residents and off-season tourists. Nevertheless, Ibiza’s most iconic club is officially the last venue to close the party season over two weeks in October. Beginning on Monday, October 3, with the legendary Flower Power party, followed by Bedouin’s newest residency, “A Wednesday Saga,” on October 5, and the enigmatic DJ and producer Claptone closes up The Masquerade on Saturday, October 8.




The following week, Marco Carola carries out the unbeatable Music On Marathon for more than 12 hours on Friday, October 14, kicking things off at Destino Resort during the day and continuing the party at Pacha from midnight into the morning. For real party animals!




Firmly established as the king of Sundays in Ibiza, Solomun takes over the venue for the very last time with Boys Noize as his +1 guest on Sunday, October 16, which marks the last chance to enjoy one of Ibiza’s leading parties this season.




























The Gray Area Guide to Ibiza Closing Parties 2022

We are entering the end of September, when the closing parties traditionally start to appear on the events calendar. However, since we are living the most extended season to date, we will be celebrating the final dance well beyond this week. Here is a selection of the best events to consider while in Ibiza.










La Troya | Club Chinois | Monday, September 19

Not new to the venue, La Troya previously held residence at Club Chinois predecessor HEART and will lead Monday nights during September. La Troya was born in Ibiza in the 70s and has become one of the most famous polysexual parties in the world. Always close to the island’s LGBT community, it welcomes all kinds of people looking to have a wild night and surprises every week with flamboyant themes and provocative performances. This Monday, September 19, La Troya presents a classic theme, Babilonia, with music by resident DJ Oscar Colorado, Franco Moiraghi, and Julian Fox. 




Follow La Troya on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Repopulate Mars Closing Party | Eden | Tuesday, September 20

One of the leading parties in the San Antonio area is celebrating the end of a very successful debut season on the island. Lee Foss’ Repopulate Mars imprint celebrates a highly recommended closing party this Tuesday, September 20, at the iconic super club, Eden. The Chicago native invites Joshwa, Mason Maynard, Miane, and a special guest for the last stop on Mars to drop some intergalactic underground house. Do not miss the chance to travel to the red planet for the last time with Lee Foss and friends. Tickets to enjoy Repopulate Mars: The Closing Party at Eden




Follow Repopulate Mars on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Solomun at Ibiza Port | Wednesday, September 21

The island’s favorite free open-air event in the heart of Ibiza Town is happening this Wednesday evening! Solomun first debuted this iconic performance powered by Pacha back in 2014 as an appreciation for the warm welcome received on the island. It takes place in the emblematic old port of Ibiza. Solomun brings his Dynamic party formula to the White Isle with a four-hour set for the island’s families, children, and party-goers as the sun sets. This unique outdoor session by one of Ibiza’s most-in-demand DJs has become a tradition, and after two years’ pause, it promises to be one for the books!



Listen to the newest “Momentum” playlist by Solomun:



Follow Solomun on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud








All Day I Dream Closing Party | Cova Santa | Thursday, September 22

Owned by Lee Burridge and Matthew Dekay, the All Day I Dream party series ends this Wednesday afternoon in Ibiza. Melodic progressive house and techno tunes have blessed the speakers all summer at the magical Cova Santa open-air venue. Have a taste of the music style by listening to Burridge’s favorites here, and do not miss the last chance to enjoy magical daytime vibes. Get tickets for the All Day I Dream Closing Party at Cova Santa.



Follow All Day I Dream on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Afterlife Closing Party (Part I) | Hï Ibiza | Thursday, September 22

Melodic techno duo Tale Of Us begins this week’s season-closing journey at Hï nightclub. One night just isn’t enough for the Afterlife bosses, so they are taking the party into next week with a special day and night event. Afterlife is about psychedelic sounds, dimmed lights, minimal production, and the iconic Afterlife figure hanging upside down above the DJ booth. For one last time, the Italian masterminds and very special guests will captivate the crowd with their distinctive music style. Get tickets for the Afterlife closing party on September 22 at Hï.




Follow Afterlife on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Drumcode Ibiza | Amnesia | Friday, September 23

The first Drumcode show in Ibiza happens this Friday at the meeting point for ravers in San Rafael superclub, Amnesia. The Swedish techno label and event series run by Adam Beyer will take over the entire venue, bringing us the best underground techno around. Beyer himself will be returning to close out the party with Anna, Bart Skils, and Kölsch getting the dancefloor nice and warm for him. Label favorites Layton Giordani, Lilly Palmer, Raxon, and Rebūke, will take over the Main Room. Enjoy one of the finest techno showcases this season! Enjoy Drumcode’s one-off show in Ibiza this Friday at Amnesia.




Follow Drumcode on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Flower Power Outdoors | Cova Santa | Saturday, September 24

One of the oldest Ibiza residencies and the flag bearer for the island’s ethos of peace and freedom celebrates the last gathering between the hills at Cova Santa this Saturday at 7 pm. Flower Power is a tribute to Ibiza’s origins with a soundtrack made of tunes from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, offering a getaway from what you’ll typically hear on a day out in Ibiza. The venue will be decked out in hearts, flowers, peace signs, and a crowd dressed up to match. Enjoy happy, hippie vibes at Flower Power outdoors this Saturday




Follow Cova Santa on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook



















Ibiza Selects (September 19-25)

A mainstay in the global tech house scene, English DJ and producer Cloonee heated things up at Space Miami earlier this month with eight hours of groovy rhythms and Latin flavor. With The iconic venue packed to the rafters, he rocked a set that spanned tunes from Ben Stirling, Daniel Orpi, Sera de Villalta, a Bad Bunny edit, and more.









Cloonee's career rose to new heights after gaining his first Beatport Tech House #1 with "Be Good To Me'" in 2019. Having dropped a series of thumping releases through established imprints such as Solardo's Sola, elrow, Sonny Fodera's Solotoko, La Pera, and Lee Foss's Repopulate Mars, he finished 2019 as Beatport's 8th best-selling tech house artist.




He followed up the success of that year with the release of "Like What" on his imprint CLNE, which again climbed to #1 on Beatport's Tech House Chart. Later in 2020, the legendary Chris Lake signed Cloonee to Black Book Records and introduced him on the label with the hit single, "What Ya Want."




Days after a sold-out show at Quantum Brooklyn this November, Cloonee will take the helm on The Roof of Superior Ingredients. He's also set to play at Firefly Music Festival 2022 in Delaware, and Pacha in Ibiza.











































































































Cloonee Rocks A Flawless Sunrise Set at Space Miami

Whether you’re a casual listener or die-hard fan, any house music enthusiast has heard the name John Summit. The Chicago native is the hottest up-and-coming name in dance music, headlining the biggest festivals and clubs around the world, topping Beatport charts, and even starting his label, Off The Grid. He’s been behind some of our favorite tracks, including his 2021 collab, “Witch Doctor,” with UK mainstay Nic Fanciulli.



This tune casts a powerful spell from beat one. Organic percussive kits tap out the vigorous beat for our hearts and our feet to follow. As the pulse grows within, entrancing vocal chants imbue this beat with mystifying energy that will not be denied. You can try and resist the siren song to the dance floor, but you’ll only be prolonging the inevitable. The witch doctor’s spell captivates listeners, taking hold of their souls through the power of house music.



We love a good collab here at Gray Area, and “Witch Doctor” is a great example of why. Fanciulli and Summit bring fundamental pieces to this tune that are crucial to the final product. Nic’s legendary rhythm work is perfectly in sync with John’s unquestionable ear for a hook, creating a roller that would become one of Fanciulli’s Saved Records’ most streamed songs of the year.



Follow John Summit on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

Follow Nic Fanciulli on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter.

Fall Under The Spell Of John Summit And Nic Fanciulli’s 'Witch Doctor'

After a two-year hiatus, East Africa’s essential electronic music festival Nyege Nyege is back. Nyege Nyege translates to the “uncontrollable urge to dance”. With over 200 shows internationally, the festival and its associated labels and collective have defined the vanguard of new sounds emerging from the Continent.



This year’s festivities will take place between the 15th and the 18th of September on the Nile’s shores, near Itanda Falls, in the heart of the Busoga region, a few kilometers from Jinja town in Uganda. Nyege Nyege focuses on merging African genres with electronic music, instilling a constant need for innovation and with a diverse lineup, this festival serves as a showcase for the potential of African music. Here are some of the acts to look out for at this year's edition of Nyege Nyege festival.







1. Otim Alpha

Over a decade ago, Otim Alpha started reinterpreting Ugandan Acholi wedding songs with frenetic electronic beats and traditional instruments. The result gave birth to fast-paced poly-rhythmic music ready for dancefloor madness known as Acholitronix. He is always a favourite at the Nyege Nyege Festival.

Follow Otim Alpha on Instagram | Twitter | Soundcloud



2. Hibotep

Born in Somalia, Hibotep grew up in Ethiopia but is based in Kampala, Uganda, where she moved to find her twin sister Hoden, who also plays under the name Houdini. Based on the principle that rules are made to be broken, Hibotep's art is then shaped by this philosophy. and her DJ sets naturally reflect this rebellious side. A key figure at the Nyege Nyege Festival, she connects baile funk, gqom, techno, reggaeton, and uptempo delirium in a delicous contemporary collage.

Follow Hibotep on Instagram | Facebook | Soundcloud



3. Kampire

Kampire ('Kampi-reh') is one of the biggest names in the underground electronic music scene in Kampala, Uganda. Kampire’s vibrant bass-heavy sets have transported her to clubs & festivals across the world. As a core member of the Nyege Nyege collective, she is definitely one to look out for.

Follow Kampire on Instagram | Twitter | Soundcloud



4. Slikback

Nairobi-born, Slikback makes forward-thinking club music that eludes genre limitations. Mixing influences ranging from techno, gqom, and trap to soundscapes, deconstructed electronics and traditional pan-African percussion. His music and DJ sets can most succinctly be described as fierce and unique. Also known for experimenting during his live sets and for adapting his sound to the space he performs in, Slikback continues to transform his style channelling moods and colors into visions via transcontinental dancefloors.

Follow Slikback on Instagram | Twitter | Bandcamp



5. DJ Travella

Hailing from Dar Es Salaam – the economic capital of Tanzania – is DJ Travella. Producing since he was fifteen, DJ Travella embodies the new wave of Singeli producers. This style of electronic music at the crossroads of several cultures (Arabic, Indian, African) was born about ten years ago in Tanzania.

Borrowing from taarab, kwaito, Tanzanian hip hop, and soukouss, it is inspired by the traditional vanga polyrhythms of the Zaramo tribe and ultra-fast techno rhythms from 180 to 300 BPM. DJ Travella is bound to have the people dancing as he creates a contemplative universe.

Follow DJ Travella on Instagram | Spotify



6. Zakente

Born in Angola, but living in Portugal since childhood, Zakente started his career as a producer around 2010.In the last few years he has emerged as a leading artist in the afrotech and future afro house sound with residencies in Ibiza and a busy release schedule. Zakente will be making his East African debut at Nyege Nyege 2022 in September.

Follow Zakente on Instagram | Twitter | Soundcloud







7. DJ Znobia

It's no exaggeration to call Angolan DJ, producer and MC Znobia the most important African electronic musician alive. Since the mid 1990's DJ Znobia has pioneered the sound of Kuduro and it's slowed down cousin Tarraxinha throughout the continent and the world with productions for the likes of Diplo, MIA, and many more. Be sure to join DJ Znobia for a special live set at Nyege ‘22 for the first time in East Africa and the first time DJ Znobia performs outside his native county in over a decade.

Follow Znobia on Instagram | Soundcloud



8. Authentically Plastic

As a DJ, producer and artist based in Kampala, Uganda, Authentically Plastic’s sound is necessarily political. They run a roving, riotous, club night in Kampala called ANTI-MASS which opens up space for femme, queer, and experimental artists in an increasingly repressive social climate. Risk-taking in this political environment informs Authentically Plastic’s sound, which has an accelerated, densely layered, improvisational feel. Their sets can be described as dark and playful, using gqom, vogue, and techno as a base for exploring other unknown sounds.

Follow Authentically Plastic on Instagram | Twitter | Soundcloud



9. Phatstoki

Phatstoki is a DJ from Johannesburg, South Africa. She is the co-founder of Pussy Party, a group that gives a regular platform to queer femme and woman Dj’s and Artists. Phatstoki is one of the most intuitive DJs reading the room perfectly, timing the drop, and leaving dancefloors defeated and hungry for more.

Follow Phatstoki on Instagram | Twitter | Soundcloud



10. Turkanax

Turkana is a South Sudanese DJ and producer who grew up in a refugee camp in Kakuma, in the Turkana region of Kenya. It was here that she got her stage name. She delivers hard-hitting sets that wave the flags of South Sudan, Kenya, and Uganda, colliding visceral techno and experimental African sounds.

Follow Turkana on Instagram | Soundcloud










10 Acts at Nyege Nyege Festival Proving the Strength of the African Dance Music Scene 

Tasha Blank is a dancefloor alchemist. The founder of New York’s buzzy BODY LVNGUAGE parties, Blank seeks to connect us all to our universal consciousness through the power of uninhibited dance. We spoke with the DJ and educator about her BODY LVNGUAGE brainchild, her DJ academy, and the ways she finds magic in the everyday.




Hi Tasha, great to speak with you! Let’s start at the beginning. Walk me down your path to where you are now as a DJ, educator, and founder of party collective BODY LVNGUAGE.




The love of music and hunger for movement has always been there. I trained as a dancer as a tween and teen, but the further I went down that track, the more depressed I was. I couldn’t find the love anymore, so when it came time for college, I stopped dancing and chose academia. That choice just spiraled me down more. I was trapped in my head, totally disconnected from my body, and ultimately had a mental and physical health crisis.




I decided to change everything. Less than a year later, I landed at Burning Man, where I found the kind of dance I didn’t know I’d been looking for my whole life. The level of freedom and pure unbridled creativity I touched on the playa catalyzed a new path of learning everything I could about music, dance, trauma, healing, ritual, medicine, neuroscience, community, and culture building.




I changed my whole course of study to support this new path and formed the conceptual framework for everything I still do today. This is a big part of what we teach in Powerhouse DJ School. From there, it became about figuring out how to catalyze the kind of magic I knew was possible in the real world. The more I do, the more experience I gain. The more I teach and coach, the more I have to learn and practice.




BODY LVNGUAGE claims to be “an ancient future party ritual”—what does this mean to you?




Ancient because our species was born for this. Future because ours depends on it. Humans have been gathering to communally dance for prayer, ritual, celebration, release, and healing since we could clap our hands together.




Connecting with ourselves and each other in full-bodied expression belongs in our everyday life. As the world gets more chaotic and the structures we used to take for granted unravel, it’s time to reclaim the power that lives in our bodies that rises up every time we grant ourselves permission to unleash. At BODY LVNGUAGE, we serve it up in a context that’s fun as fuck and brings us back to our sense of belonging at the same time.




As a DJ, do you ever feel confined by the expectations of genre from partygoers? How do you navigate the fine balance of honoring your own creativity while serving the vibe of the party?




I think vibe is more important than genre. While I usually keep things uptempo, I tend to go all over the map. So we cultivate an environment where folks are down for the ride. They want to end up somewhere new at the end of the night. They trust me to play music for their bodies, which gives me the freedom to do exactly that.




I know a few rules come with a BODY LVNGUAGE party—no drinks on the Dance Floor, No Phones Anywhere, Love & Respect Above All. How did you develop these three tenets, and why are they so important?




When I started going out to clubs, all I wanted to do was dance. But you can’t do that with a drink in your hand or a phone in your face. It’s extra tricky to do that in a room where you don’t feel you can trust everyone around you. We needed some ground rules to signal that we were doing something different from the regular club scene, and these three solved the worst vibe killers out there.




When did you sense the connection between meditation, spirituality, and music?

When I look back, it’s always been there. It really hit me that first Burning Man in 2007. Dancing stopped being this fun thing I liked and became a straight shot to the universal intelligence and creativity moving through my body. Spiritually stopped being a cool idea and became the experience we have when we remember who we really are together. The deep self that lives in the body, below the head, independent of who we think we are and linked up to everything we’re made of, is pure gold, and dance is the quickest way I’ve found to come home.




As an artist, how do you push yourself to keep growing?

All I have to do is go out and dance or hear music, whether that’s at a club, festival, or show. I always leave super jazzed to jump into the next creation. My students inspire me so much. Our first international cohort of Powerhouse DJ School hasn’t even graduated yet, and their mixes are blowing me out of the water. Now that I’m teaching and mentoring upcoming DJs, it’s not just about me anymore. I want to keep getting better for them.




Who is the most influential person in your life that helps you on your path?




I have so many teachers and mentors, incredible colleagues, teammates, and advisors. If I had to name an MVP this year, it goes to my partner-in-crime and BODY LVNGUAGE DJ Maro. She came to me about 18 months ago wanting to learn to DJ and slayed it so hard. She was DJing festivals and clubs within six weeks of our work together, so we decided to start a DJ academy. We’ve done so much this year, and we’re just getting started. We added eight new rockstars to our team, are getting ready to open enrollment for next year’s Powerhouse DJ School, and are planning our launch in my new home of Las Vegas and a US tour for 2023.




What can we do to cultivate everyday magic in the music industry?




I think so often we forget to actually do the thing we love just because we love it when it becomes our job. Music is the closest thing we have to actual magic on planet earth. So how do we cultivate it? Dance.

















Tasha Blank Taps into the Power of Conscious Dancing with New York's BODY LVNGUAGE

As we get into the elevator for Giolì & Assia's green room after a rousing and intensely powerful ARC Music Festival DJ set, they break into a quiet and cozy conversation in Italian. I'm unsure of the context, but it seems like the kind of chat a couple shares while downloading from an intense day. And as we begin to set up for our interview in a green room high above the festival grounds, they break into a polite argument. It's the kind of thing that a couple does when one person misremembers a story, and the other insists that their memory is the only one fully functioning. Her tour manager later reveals that he knows they are disagreeing when they switch to Italian as the intensity rises. In these moments, I'm struck by the authenticity of their ten-year relationship, a link that's such a salient trademark of their musical DNA.



They agree that the music and their relationship are symbiotic. Because of their relationship, the passion in their music is visceral.



"The relationship is the best part of it." Assia explains, looking at Giolli while she speaks. "The fact that we are so chemical together is what we are, and we are where we are because of that."







It's also the reason that they have such electricity on stage. Despite being self-professed introverts and homebodies, their performances are an extension of their union and studio chemistry.



"It's not that that we open up when we are on stage. When we are a stage, we recreate that intimacy that we do in the studio. So, it's like we are living in two different worlds," Assia says.



The relationship, however, isn't without its highs and lows. Assia reveals candidly with a laugh," It's very beautiful and unique, but at the same time we are two, so we got period, two. So, we have some drama plus some other drama. It happens. it's normal. Especially if we are working together. We have been growing through this kind of thing. Every fight we have, we grow stronger than ever."



The couple arrives at ARC just ahead of the release of their third album, Fire Hell and Holy Water (out now via Ultra Records). And they should be in the States for its release as it was a month-long tour in the US in 2021 that inspired them to write it in the first place.



"We were saying, 'we have to do more. We have to play more instruments. We have to sing more. We have to communicate more.'" Giolì explains, "So, after this month, we came back in January. And we did all the album in three or four weeks. We were very inspired."







She adds that while much of the album came together quickly, two of their favorite songs have more history. "I'll Be Fine" was written at the height of the pandemic. And "Bittersweet Love" had been sitting shelved for four years.



"We did the melody of the piano back in 2018. But unfortunately, the song never had lyrics. So, one morning I woke up, because we have our studio in our home. And I love playing the piano. Everything that we've done so far is thanks to the piano, I guess because I started playing piano when I was eight. And this passion for music has always been part of the person that I am. I said, we have to write the lyrics and the verse of the song today. And now it's one of our favorites."



Being on tour is often the source of inspiration for Giolì & Asia. Besides being known for starkly beautiful music that bridges the gap between techno and pop, they are also stars on YouTube. Their picturesque YouTube streams reflect the beauty of their music. Traveling to exotic locations like the inside of a volcano, on a rocky deserted island near Palermo, Sicily, and a windswept cliff overlooking the ocean in Krysuvikburg, Iceland, they have earned nearly one million followers and even more streams.



After their 2018 residency at Privilege, Ibiza, they returned with a need to prove themselves as artists beyond their Dj sets, Assia says. "After the summer, we were like, 'maybe we should add more of who we really are as musicians and singer.'"



Before becoming Giolì & Assia, Giolì was a solo act. And as they began to strike out as a duo, they needed to find a way to prove that it was more than just DJing for them.



"Year after year, we were trying to be this duo and we needed to show to the buyers, to the promoters, to our fan base, who we really are," Assia explains. "And this video just helped us to show them. And it was very easy after this video to find the new team, to find new fans, and love and support from all over the world."



The streams also offered a portal into the rhythmic interplay of their union. There is a delicate balance to both their musical and personal relationship. And watching them perform together makes clear that Giolì & Assia's music is the physical manifestation of love.



The livestreams are a window to the immense talent that they possess. More than just producers, they are creating on the spot. Their intensely musical live shows showcase their ability to seamlessly bring together voice, a DJ setup, and multiple instruments, including the piano and the hauntingly beautiful trademark of their sound, the handpan.



The unique instrument features heavily throughout their new album, which comes with fresh support from Spotify, who illuminated an LED-lit photo of the duo on a billboard in Time Square. They are bringing light to women identifying figures in music as part of Spotify Equal.



As they emerge as role models for other women in dance music, they are sure to mention that they look forward to a time when these programs are unnecessary.



"The point of Equal [is to] recognize that a woman is a human. So, we don't have to specify this is a man so it should be more valued. Or this a woman, she should work twice more than a man. No, it's just about, do you like the music? All the rest is not important," Giolì explains.



Amid the whirlwind of a festival weekend, a slew of US tour dates, and their new album drop, they remain calm, collected, and genuinely grateful for what lies ahead.



Their emotionally reverent and raw brand of instrument-led techno is perfectly en vogue at the moment. Yet, it's clear that the moment won't be fleeting. Like their relationship, their gorgeously orchestrated melodic techno carries a timeless quality that reflects the beauty and tenderness of existence in a world rapped by emotional highs and lows. And as they reveal, the new album has given them the chance to tell an even more genuine story about the realities of being in a modern relationship.



Giolì & Assia's Music Continues to be an Extension of Their Bond

While the serenity of the island rolls in as we head towards mid-September, unique events and exclusive parties are still on the bill for this week. So, if you are doubting whether or not to visit Ibiza during late summer, check for yourself among all the different options and pack your bags. Ibiza keeps calling!







Do Not Sleep | Cova Santa | Tuesday, September 13

Following on from the first unforgettable party in July up in the Ibizan hills at Cova Santa, Do Not Sleep welcomes Richy Ahmed’s cult Four Thirty Two label for round two this Tuesday. After five dates at Amnesia at the start of summer, Do Not Sleep closes the season with a day-into-night clubbing event this season.




Ahmed will be joined by Amnesia resident Marco Faraone for an exclusive b2b, alongside Samuel Deep (SlapFunk house label owner with his brother Julian Alexander), Seb Zito (who mixes up garage and house), and house sounds by Amnesia’s resident Caal. Then, moving into the indoor club downstairs, Richy will be accompanied by a special guest for a second back-to-back. Buy tickets for the last Do Not Sleep party at Cova Santa.



Follow Ricky Ahmed on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Namaste | Akasha | Wednesday, September 14

One of the events that best represents that true hippy essence is the Namaste party, which celebrates its 25th season on the island. On Wednesday, Las Dalias becomes a meeting place for family and friends that is full of inspiration.




First, the garden of the legendary venue will feature various musical, artistic, visual performances, rituals, and ceremonies (like Pachamama at 9 pm). And at 11 pm, the ceremony moves to Akasha (the renovated indoor club), offering music from Alok, Shakatribe, Gaya Brisa, and many others.

Namaste is a fascinating gathering that fills the San Carlos venue with color, peace, and magic that you must experience at least once! You can get your tickets at the door for Namaste at Las Dalias.



Follow Namaste on Facebook | Instagram | SoundCloud







The Ibiza Beer Festival | Exhibition hall Ibiza | Friday, September 16 & Sat September 17

This weekend is an event for beer lovers in Ibiza town. The Ibiza Beer Fair celebrates its 15th edition bringing more than one hundred varieties of the best-known foamy golden drink from around the world. More than a dozen stands in the outdoor area of the exhibition hall of Ibiza town will provide different kinds of beer (including those made on the island). There will also be food trucks and a gastronomic area located inside. A specialized bartender will prepare cocktails made with barley juice to familiarize people with beer’s most important ingredient. Admission is free and limited to those over 18 years old.























Sulta Selects | Amnesia Ibiza| Friday, September 16

The energetic DJ from Glasgow famed for his disruptive image and vivacious selection, Denis Sulta, debuts his Ibiza party this summer with an exclusive two-date slot on Amnesia’s terrace under his iconic party alliance and record label Sulta Selects. 




After a successful first gathering at the beginning of this month, the last event takes place this Sunday. It will feature performances by Fjaak, a Berlin duo (Felix Wagner and Aaron Röbig) who practice unpretentious techno and dreamlike abstraction. Mella Dee, the English DJ, and producer, is defined by his disposition to experiment with a wide range of sounds, concepts, and soundscapes, creating a unique blend of driving techno by fusing house elements with essences of hardcore and jungle. Saoirse can weave sounds together with style effortlessly. And Kilimanjaro, an expert in Afro, amapiano, and house sounds. Get your tickets and enjoy the last Sulta Select show in Ibiza.


Follow Denis Sulta on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Territori Ibiza | Ibiza Town | Saturday, September 17

A great cultural event in its third edition kicks off this Sunday and runs until September 25 in Ibiza town. Territori is an international performance art festival that presents audiovisual projections, documentaries, workshops, exhibitions, networking, conferences, and fascinating performances around the island to connect the audience with artists. For more information and the complete program, visit the official website.


Follow Territori Festival on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook







No visit to Ibiza would be complete without stopping by an artisan market or try local and homemade food and drinks. We’ve selected two options to browse whether you buy something or not.






Forada Market

On Saturday morning (from 10 am-4 pm), the small but charming Forada Market takes place in front of Can Tixedo Art Café in San Rafael. It is an eco-focused fare with numerous stalls featuring artisan handicrafts, paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. You can also find locally produced fruit and vegetables, plants, artisan herb liqueur, homemade pastries, and more. Sometimes live music, poetry readings, and street acts are added to the atmosphere, and there is also a chill-out area where you can indulge in fresh aloe vera juice. A great place to hang out for a few enjoyable hours.






San Jose Ecological Market

You will find local, ecological, and artisan products every Saturday from 9:30 am - 1:30 pm in front of the town hall, right in the center of San Jose. San Jose market features 40 stalls where you can discover traditional handcrafts (including the exclusive espardenyes shoes and other esparto accessories) and all kinds of fresh and manufactured organic products. You can buy the most diverse and healthy items directly from producers and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere, or even participate in different Ibicencan traditional culture or recycling workshops with the participation of people from the municipality. On specific dates, you can also find the gastronomic workshops “Flavors of Ibiza in the market,” with dishes made with seasonal Ibizan products. Travel to Ibiza’s origins while walking around the beautiful San Jose town.

















Ibiza Selects (September 12 – September 18)

There are already a vast amount of online articles and Wiki stubs that will give you a history lesson in ghettotech. The Red Bull Music Academy has a great in-depth oral history of the genre, outlining how Jeff Mills’ unique scratching method set the genre in motion. You can even carve out some time to read a heavily sourced 100-page master thesis that goes deep into the ethnomusicological side of ghettotech’s history in Detroit and beyond. Hell, our sister site Festival Insider even has a brief overview of ghettotech’s origins in its Road Trip series.




So no, this is not another Wikipedia stub - the outline of ghettotech’s history is already very well documented. Instead, we’re taking a trip down memory lane with one of the longest reigning ghettotech pioneers, Brian Jeffries, better known as DJ Godfather.








From the start, ghettotech has been “straight up, Detroit shit.” As a Detroit native and current resident, Jeffries has not only had a front-row seat to the beginning of the genre, but he’s also one of a handful of pioneers today still actively touring and releasing music. In fact, he may be at the strongest point of his career.




“Honestly, 95% of my sets now are all my records.” Jeffries relays. “Cause during Covid, I did 189 songs mixed and mastered in 10 months.” Like others confined to their homes, Jeffries refused to sit idle, “I took advantage of the time and instead of getting frustrated and pissed off, I was like, ‘you know what, I’m gonna do these projects I wanted to do.’”




And that’s exactly what he did. Releasing a 44-track album last year called Electro Beats for Freaks, Jeffries intentionally blended the new tracks, so the album played like a DJ mix. At a time when many artists in the fore and underground are only releasing singles or EPs, a two-hour continuous mix of new material seemed a risk. And many of his peers raised their eyebrows at the concept, “Because they’re too lazy to do big projects.” he says confidently. “I’m like, ‘you know what guys? You do your singles but I’m gonna do something that’ll stand out.’”








When he started DJing and producing, Jeffries only had one goal in mind, “I just started doing shit for Detroit.” he shares his modus operandi. “Back then, there [were only] like six or seven record stores that are poppin’ and if you had a good ghettotech record in Detroit, you could sell 2000-3000 copies, just in the city. Cuz most of the DJs were buying two copies too because they’re doing beat juggling. So next thing you know, I’m like ‘wow if I do a song in a day and just released a record every month, I could sell a couple thousand. That [could] be my job.’ And that was the mindset. That’s all I cared about was making a hot record for Detroit.”




Soon, however, Jeffries discovered that his record distribution was well beyond local.




“These records I made were strictly a Detroit sound, it’s for Detroit,” he remembers. “That’s all I cared about - I had no clue Record Time was taking my records and selling them to places in Germany, England, everywhere. I was 19 years old when I got asked to play internationally and the first places I played were in Germany and England.”




As ghettotech expanded globally to Europe, people weren’t sure what to think about the genre. “I still remember the first time anyone heard that shit outside of Detroit,” Jeffries chortles. “There were people that were confused but loved it. There were people like ‘this guy’s scratching like a hip hop battle DJ over all this music, like what’s going on here?’ So it was more like a visual show and they were dancing. It was cool, it grabbed a lot of attention but there’s a lot of ‘what’s this sound? I never heard this shit before. This is just crazy.’ “




It wasn’t just the Europeans who were confused by the burgeoning genre, “There were only a few people [making ghettotech], so the first time people heard this thing, everyone was just dumbfounded but they loved it.” Jeffries recalls. “It was refreshing, you know? It was kinda like a basement party version of electronic music. We put the party back in because you had a lot of snobs taking house and techno way too seriously.”




“They still take house and techno way too seriously,” I interrupt. “Yeah,” he laughs. “But that’s still boring as fuck to me.”








You can call ghettotech many things. Boring will never be one of them. And in Jeffries opinion, that’s as it should be, “That’s the whole point of this, you know, it’s the street version of techno. And that’s even how it got its name.”




Jeffries explains the etymology, “You know it got that name from the press, we never even said, ‘Oh let’s come up with a genre and call it ghettotech.’ None of us even named it that.”




The name ghettotech came from a journalist, “His name was Hobey Echlin and he used to write for URB Magazine,” Jeffries recalls of the genre’s labeling. “He was a Detroit native but he lived on the West Coast and he was really into the sound but then he saw this gap where he’s writing on a whole genre of music that no other writers were writing about.”




Even the locals weren’t sure what to call it, “[Echlin] ’s like, ‘Well, I have some people in Detroit, they call it mix music. I ask other people, they call it bass music or they called a Jit music.’ And he’s like, ‘No one has a fucking name for it.’”




Before Echlin coined the term, Jeffries was always very sure of what the music was all about, “I was raised on Miami Bass and I was raised on Detroit techno. Everything I took in, I fused into a sound, and that’s how [ghettotech] came [to be], from my point of view.”




Once the name ghettotech stuck, so did the distorted associations of the genre—the biggest source of contention: the lyrics.




“It was annoying as fuck.” Jeffries laments after I ask about the association ghettotech has with sex-charged lyrics. “People thought ghettotech is just sexually based lyrics and it’s like a sexual thing. And it’s like, you guys are picking one song out of 15 that has like ‘hoes, take off your clothes or ass and titty lyrics. But the next record is an instrumental, And the one after that is talking about jittin’ which is a footwork dance that’s part of the culture. So I always had to straighten out the press, the second they said ‘oh well this sexually..’ I interrupt ‘stop saying that. There’s some…well, there’s a lot, yes. But it’s not what it’s about.”



For Jeffries, “ghettotech is the only genre that has its own culture” not only are the DJs beat-juggling-battle-DJs, but there’s also a culture around the jit battles.




Maybe it was the shady back alley record deals or growing coverage of the media-coined genre, but the lasting legacy of ghettotech is no longer “straight up Detroit shit.” The next generation of ghettotech producers are culturally and regionally diverse, like Australian native Partiboi69 or Berlin-based Mell G. Yet, what we’re seeing is how these international talents are using Detroit ghettotech as a foundation and adding their cultural influences to it.




“It’s just cool because they’re (Partiboi69 and Mell G) influenced by us but taking where they’re from and their attitude and things from their city and they’re mixing those elements with this [Detroit sound].”




Another exciting aspect of ghettotech’s legacy is embracing multi-lingual lyrics, “I mean there’s a whole crew in Brazil doing all this shit too, and the lyrics are in Portuguese.” Jeffries shares. “There are these guys from Paris, and they wanted to use my vocals [for a sample] and I was like, ‘why do you want my vocals? You should do that shit in French. They’ll relate to it a lot better.’”




That’s not to mention some non-English producers attempting to speak the language of Detroit, “They’re are taking Detroit records, with Detroit slang in it and I go, ‘do guys even know what ‘running Bustos is? Why would you sample it? You don’t even know what it is.”









While I’ll spare you the Bustos definition in this article, the point remains: the legacy of ghettotech is no longer exclusively Detroit.




This is an exciting time for new ghettotech creators. For the ones who have been there since the beginning, like Jeffries, it’s even more important to stay true to yourself.




“It’s cool, but that’s another reason why I kind of stick with my old style because I don’t want to sound like what these new guys are doing which is cool, you know, I just want to have my own identity still.”




DJ Godfather has even more music set to be released this year and if you’re lucky enough to live near Detroit, be sure to see the past, present, and future of ghettotech when DJ Godfather and Partyboi69 play at Magic Stick on October 7th.

The Past, Present, and Future of Ghettotech with Dj Godfather

When Claude VonStroke gives a sign of approval, we tend to listen. Philly native Mike Kerrigan has worked tirelessly to hone his production skills, defining a unique sound for himself and crafting a reputation as an excellent DJ through his experience playing rooms of all sizes all over the country.



His journey began at a young age when on a class field trip about career choices, he applied for the job of “town DJ.” Although he may not have been old enough to spin at the club, a young Mike Kerrigan knew deep down what the future held.



After some early experimentation with different styles, Mike eventually landed on what we know him for now, his signature low-end basslines, thick drops, and punchy vocals. A year before Mike began putting out official music in 2018 he connected with N808 while they were DJing in the same room in San Francisco. Eventually, they got into the studio and began producing music. After a couple of collaborations, they hit gold with “Penguin Hit Squad,” a truly funky track that Claude VonStroke liked enough to sign to Dirtybird.



Mike has since been booked for a handful of Dirtybird events, including the massive campout festival this October. We spoke to Mike about his musical history, the evolution of his sound, and what it means to sign to the iconic Dirtybird imprint.





You came up in Philadelphia before moving to San Francisco. It certainly feels like Philly is having a moment now with electronic music. From the influx of new clubs, local promoter-based events, and Insomniac’s Club Glow Philly. As someone who came up there, can you give us some insight into your experience with electronic music (or lack thereof) in Philadelphia? Do you feel the city is heading in the right direction?



From the looks of it, it seems Philly is indeed heading in the right direction. I feel like there’s always been a heavy presence of afro beats, jersey club, and bass music. I’ve noticed a lot more house artists coming through. The Ave Live seems to be popping off. ‘Back in my day,’ it was called Soundgarden. A lot of my early experiences with electronic music took place there.



Although we have a good sense of what your sound is like now, you had some experimental phases at the beginning of your career. For example, early tracks such as "Not Stoppin’’ were straight G-house, whereas "Little More" had bass and reggae dub elements just a year later. Were you simply in a discovery mode musically, or were you feeling initially that these were the sounds you wanted to explore?



I was more in discovery mode from a production standpoint. I only had about six months of Ableton under my belt at the time, so it felt good to make a full track and share it with the minimal knowledge and tools I had.




What prompted you to dive into becoming a DJ/producer? Is there a particular memory of something that inspired you, or was it a gradual build of passion for music?




Both. As far as I can remember, I was obsessed with music. I have a pretty musical family. My sister is eight years older than me, along with most of my cousins. I’d always take their CDs, burn a copy, and make my own mixes.




I played sports growing up, and one of my top priorities was making a proper mix for the car ride to the game. I enjoyed finding new music and sharing it with my friends. That passion continued as I got older. However, I didn’t decide to really dive in until I moved to SF.




One specific memory was a field trip in 5th grade called “Exchange City.” It was this mini town in a warehouse, and everybody in my class had to get a resume together, apply for a job, and do their best to make the town function. One of the jobs was “town DJ,” I made sure I got the job and redlined the entire time. I need to find that resume.






Your first official release came in 2018 with "Gone Like." It carries some of your G-house influence but shows a clear transition towards what we know now of your sound. Yet, it’s still a super funky offering with elements of breaks. How did it feel to finally have a track signed to a label, and did you feel like this was the start of momentum for your career?




It was definitely a milestone, more so because it was the first time I felt confident enough to officially share an original track. Also, it was around that time that I started getting into the scene in SF.




What prompted the move to San Francisco, and do you feel it’s been essential to your growth as an artist?




It was essential both as an artist and a person. My musical journey as an artist didn’t really start until I moved to SF. The summer I finished college, I came out here with three friends. We all moved for different reasons. I just knew I wanted a change. I didn’t know anyone and had a lot of time on my hands. This gave me a chance to dive into production, something I’ve wanted to do since high school.



The next release was "Loosie" with N808, a frequent collaborator and B2B partner. What’s the story behind your relationship with N808, and what about your dynamic makes collaboration so easy?




I met Nate briefly while we were both DJing downstairs at Temple SF in 2017. Eventually, I’d send “Gone Like” to [his label] Admit One Records. From there, we started kicking it and working on tunes together. I think our sense of humor, combined with honesty in the studio, is why we work well together. Our shared influences and impulses tend to complement each other.





Do you have any particular pieces of hardware or software plug-ins that you frequently use for music production?




My go-to plug-ins are Ableton’s Operator, Sylenth, Kick 2, and Serum. Along with those, I use the Soundtoys plug-ins often. In "Penguin Hit Squad," I used the Crystallizer for a lot of the elements in the track, particularly the mumbling high pitch penguin banter in the background. My hardware is minimal at the moment. I’ll sometimes use the Roland VT-3 for vocals, then experiment with drum patterns via the Roland TR-6S.



2020 marked a turning point for you when you got on the Dirtybird compilation through a collaboration with the boss man, Claude Von Stroke. How did you connect with him?




The collab with Claude came about peak Covid when he was doing his Sunday streams. I had sent Dirtybird about six demos, and he played one called "Tribe Collide." Even though the track wasn’t completely done, the Twitch chat went nuts, and Claude was vibing. That week he reached out with some feedback. From there, we went back and forth throughout the summer, dialing it into what would be "I Caught A Vibe."







As mentioned above, you just released your first stand-alone single on Dirtybird, ‘Penguin Hit Squad.’ You’re on the campout lineup and are getting tons of support from Claude and the label. Can you give us some insight into the Dirtybird family and what it feels like for an upcoming artist to have this kind of breakthrough?




With this release, the opportunity to play Campout, and getting this kind of support, it feels like the hard work is starting to pay off. I ran into Claude a few times recently and was able to pick his brain a little. It was great. Between the music and community Dirtybird has built, it’s really something special. At Dirtybird events, everyone checks their ego at the door and just wants to have fun. The artists and events they’ve put on have been super inspiring since I started this journey.
















Dirtybird and How San Francisco Ignited Mike Kerrigan's Creative Spark

September in Ibiza offers the best of winter and summer, a cooling trend arises in every corner, and it’s a great moment to experience the White Island in all possible ways. The days become shorter and nights a bit more chilly. Nevertheless, there is very little change in terms of the party calendar in most of the venues. Closing parties have kicked off, but fortunately, they don’t all happen simultaneously. Check out our selection of plans for this week!




elrow outdoors | Ushuaïa Ibiza| Wednesday, September 7

The last elrow outdoors event in Ibiza features its newest theme, RowsAttacks, to conclude their season at Ushuaïa this summer. Expect party animals from every city, country, planet, and galaxy. And a sense of madness and absurdity all around. It's an event that reunites addicts of good music, good vibes, and dancing like there’s no tomorrow under the sun. Ilario Alicante, Cuartero, Bastian Bux, Chelina Manuhutu, and Florentina will be in charge of the tunes for the final intense and crowded session in the world's largest outdoor club, full of acrobats, performers, inflatables, glitter, and never-ending showers of confetti!

elrow outdoors will sell out fast. Get your tickets now!



Follow elrow on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Martin Garrix Closing Party | Ushuaïa Ibiza| Thursday, September 8

The young Dutch sensation has culminated the season at his party home in Ibiza since 2016. Martijn Gerard Garritsen, known professionally as Martin Garrix, has set patterns and scored milestones at every corner of the music industry. Garrix's style of electro, progressive, and big room sounds have staged ten successful dates at the Platja D’En Bossa open-air venue. The three-time number #1 DJ in the world has become one of the most captivating dance music stars of all time, with a massive amount of hits, including “Scared To Be Lonely” with Dua Lipa, “Won’t let you Go,” and “Diamonds." Don't miss Garrix’s final performance till midnight alongside Tinie Tempah, TV Noise, and more artists. Purchase tickets for Martin Garrix's closing party at Ushuaïa


Follow Martin Garrix on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







HE.SHE.THEY Closing Party | Amnesia | Friday, September 9

HE.SHE.THEY’s event series at Amnesia this summer is coming to an end this Friday, September 9. The international record and fashion label represent the darker side of electronic music and reflect the diversity that was historically at the heart of the roots of house and techno. For this last gathering, HE.SHE.THEY has a 50/50 gender balance on the lineup to play in both Amnesia’s rooms featuring Berghain’s resident DJ and techno titan Ben Klock, German DJ and producer Gerd Janson, English music maker Maya Janes Coles, and the queen of industrial techno Rebekah, among others.




The inclusive party stands out for creating an original Ibiza vibe and feeling of togetherness and hedonistic attitude, embracing the culture of diversity with curious dancers and performers. Join “a place without prejudice, where people can be people.”

Join the HE.SHE.THEY community this Friday at Amnesia


Follow HE.SHE.THEY on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Flower Power | Cova Santa| Saturday, September 10

Pacha’s flagship party moves outdoors this Saturday to throw happy, hippy vibes all around! Flower Power keeps its essence alive from many decades ago and delivers the magic of the '60s, '70s, '80s, and even the '90s. A unique event for all ages that takes place exclusively at the gardens of Cova Santa this week, with colorful décor and plenty of interactive acts to further enhance the sparkling day as the sun sets. Ibiza veteran DJ Victor Nebot is in charge of the music selection and will also be playing at the last event next September 24 at the same venue and every Monday night at Pacha.




Celebrate freedom, peace, and love at Cova Santa this Saturday


Follow Victor Nebot on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Pyramid | Amnesia | Sunday, September 11

Pyramid makes clear every Sunday night that electronic music has always been a common space that represents talent and creativity. This is why Amnesia’s flagship party welcomes a community that gets away from “fast-food” music and yearns for the values that raised the foundations of clubbing culture. For this particular occasion, Pyramid invites a special guest to the terrace. Sven Väth will play for the last time at Amnesia this summer, followed by Dublin native Dec Lennon, aka Krystal Klear, and with support by resident DJ Mar-T. Dropping a healthy dose of techno in the main room will be Deborah De Luca, Lilly Palmer, and Andres Campo. See you at one of the oldest mega clubs on the island!

Buy tickets for this special Pyramid event at Amnesia.




Follow Pyramid on Instagram | SoundCloud







Although you will never get tired of the beach, you might want to pamper yourself during your Ibiza holidays and spend an entire day around the pool of one of the best hotels on the White Island. Below we bring you a couple of DAY PASS options:




W Ibiza

As the third largest town, Santa Eulalia relaxed pace and cosmopolitan attitude is a respite from the party life. W Ibiza offers the Glow Day Pass from 11 am till 7 pm with access to the Glow rooftop, an exclusive adults-only space with a pool, sunbeds, and incredible panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and Santa Eulalia town surrounded by the mountains. The €100 day pass includes a credit you can use on food and drinks at the Glow Bar, a glass of champagne courtesy of the house, and 20% off on a treatment at the Away Spa.













Destino Pacha Ibiza

Pacha’s outdoor playground for adults located at Cap Martinet is open for visitors from midday. Enjoy panoramic views of Dalt Vila, Formentera, and the Mediterranean Sea with a cocktail in hand around the cherry-shaped pool. Try the jacuzzi, select among a wide offer of sunbeds and hammocks, or relax on one of the legendary leaves. You can choose from the same menu as the D-Lounge restaurant, which offers the best Japanese, Central American, and Mediterranean seafood.















Ibiza Selects (September 5-11)

Game recognizes game. So it’s easy to see why dance music’s most well-known representative, Diplo, would tap the talents of HoneyLuv for an official remix of his album standout, “Waiting For You.” Once a swirling psychedelic piece, this deep-rooted tune gets a club-ready makeover ready for the darkest dance floors of the world. Thumping bass kicks, bone-rattling subs, and vocals sliced into siren spells give this track an injection of tech house energy in a way that only HoneLuv can.







Taylor Character (aka HoneyLuv) has exploded onto the scene in less than four years. Character turned her sights on music while stationed in Los Angles under the United States Navy and took to the decks like a fish to water. Raised by an R&B-loving father and a house music-loving mother, music flowed through her veins. Now tearing across festivals like Coachella, Outside Lands, Imagine Music Festival, Escape Halloween, and performing alongside artists like Calvin Harris (in Ibiza no less!), FISHER, and Aluna, her house music debut on Twitch in 2020 seems eons in the past.



“Waiting For You” comes off Diplo’s self-titled fourth album. Released in March of 2022. It featured appearances from a wealth of artists, including Busta Rhymes, Leon Bridges, Amtrac, Paul Woolford, and Sidepiece. August saw the release of Diplo (Deluxe), the extended version featuring remixes from Gray Area favorites, including LP Giobbi, John Summit, Soulwax, and Purple Disco Machine.



Follow HoneyLuv on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

HoneyLuv Boosts The Bass On Remix Of Diplo’s “Waiting For You”

Labor Day weekend is almost here and if you live in New York City, that means the annual pilgrimage of New York festival-goers is upon us! Electric Zoo, founded by Made Event, is NYC’s first and largest electronic music festival with a long-standing history of stacked lineups, meticulous stage designs, and innovative themes. The festival brand has even branched out internationally in cities like Mexico City, Tokyo, and Shanghai.




In its inaugural year 2009, the state of electronic music in the United States was at a much different point than Europe. Inspired by dance music events overseas, event organizers Mike Bindra and Laura de Palma created a weekend-long EDM festival that showcased top-notch artists from across various subgenres, a “literal ‘zoo’ of electronic music” as they put it. Tucked away in the wilderness of Randall’s Island, festival-goers can escape the hustle and bustle of New York City and find themselves in pure bliss. In 2009, most artists only ever performed in dark nightclubs. Attendees were curious to see how that would affect the outdoor, open-air environment Electric Zoo was to offer.






“We’re going to have four different environments. We’re going to have an open-air main stage, which we’ve had experience with before in the past, and it’s worked very well.” Laura de Palma said of the first Electric Zoo. “And in the tented environments, we’ll have the opportunity to create an experience-not like a club-but a unique experience within a unique environment,”




The first-ever rendition of Electric Zoo was a great success, reeling in about 26,000 attendees over two days. It also sparked a newfound excitement for the dance music scene in America.




Electric Zoo expanded to three days in 2011, and 2012 was their biggest turnout yet with 85,000 festival-goers. In 2015, Tomorrowland organizers ID&T announced their creative partnership with EZoo. Billed as “Electric Zoo Transformed,” they were looking for redemption as the festival’s third day was canceled the previous two years due to drug-related deaths and severe weather. The festival experience stood true to its title for the production was completely refurbished, featuring a massive, phoenix-inspired main stage, Riverside stage, Hilltop Arena, and the Sunday School tent. From 2015 on, Electric Zoo provided a more immersive, zoo-themed environment topped with brand new animalistic stage designs.






Electric Zoo 2016: Wild Island

For its eighth anniversary, Electric Zoo turned the festival experience up a notch, impressing Zoo-attendees with an increased emphasis on its stage designs, epic art installations, and astounding performance artists. Transforming Randall’s Island into a literal “Wild Island” festival-goers could explore five unique stages: Temple of the Cobra main stage, Riverside, Sunday School Grove which brought Ibiza institution ANTS to the US for the first time, the Treehouse, and a re-designed Hilltop as the Crystal Cave.








Electric Zoo 2017: The 6th Boro

Electric Zoo stepped up their social media game for The 6th Boro, as they revealed the newly designed stages on their YouTube channel. The video offered festival-goers a look inside the minds of the creative directors.



Electric Zoo creative director Jeff Wright explained that they were, “creating stages that allow you to get lost in the moment, feel like you’re in another place, have an experience of awe, and make memories that last a lifetime, those are the things that are important to us.”



The 2017 edition featured a jaw-dropping elephant mainstage named the “Elephant’s Roar,” an aquarium-themed Riverside stage renamed the “Undersea Dome,” Hilltop reconstructed as the “6th Boro Station,” and was the first time European legends Awakenings and elrow touched down in America, a real-life representation of the renowned warehouse district named “6th Boro Industrial Zone,” and lastly “6 Pointz” which offered local/underground DJ’s the chance to perform.







Electric Zoo 2018: The Big 10

2018 was Electric Zoo’s tenth birthday, and what better way to celebrate than to throw their biggest festival yet? Hosting more than 100,000 attendees, the three-day festival was jam-packed with world-renowned DJ’s and production never before seen in EZoo history. However, they let their stages be a mystery, only those who attended were treated with the official reveal. Electric Zoo also spoiled their guests with curated stages throughout the weekend. The Sunday School Grove featured Anna Lunoe’s Beats 1 Radio Show Hyperhouse, AC Slater’s Night Bass, and Berlin techno institution HYTE. The Hilltop Arena was handed over to Zeds Dead’s Deadbeats on Saturday, and Brownies & Lemonade took over on Sunday.




Electric Zoo 2019: Evolved

Inspired by the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly, Electric Zoo: Evolved was the pinnacle of the festival’s evolution. Once again taking to social media for a glimpse of the main stage, festival-goers got a sneak peak of the “tallest and widest mainstage ever” featuring the mesmerizing New York City skyline. They also announced five prominent stage takeovers including DESTRUCTO’s brand All My Friends, the return of Brownies & Lemonade, Gud Vibrations, Eric Prydz’s Pryda Arena, and Seven Lions’ Ophelia Records.







Electric Zoo 2021: Supernaturals

After the 2020 cancellation due to the COVID pandemic, Electric Zoo: Supernaturals had to take extra precautions such as entry requirements and cleaning policies to ensure the safety of all zoo-attendees. New York City was also the direct target of Hurricane Ida just a few days before the festival, so there must have been some “supernatural” energy protecting EZoo. Taking a step away from the animal-inspired stages, the supernatural-themed stage designs did not disappoint. The 2021 edition featured “The Den” which showcased the top house and techno acts, “The Gateway” with melodic trance and melodic bass acts, “The Teleporter” and last but not least, the main stage renamed “The Hive.” Even after battling a pandemic and a hurricane, Electric Zoo: Supernaturals lived to tell the tale.




Electric Zoo 3.0

Keeping up with the ever-evolving state of technology, the 2022 edition of Electric Zoo presents 3.0. In response to previous concerns, the newly reconfigured festival grounds provide an increase in VIP areas and free water stations, and also address their solution for sound bleed issues.


“Think of it as a system update. The value and importance of community is higher than ever, crypto has caught up with cash, and digital wallets are becoming more practical than the leather ones. It’s the year of advancement – and EZoo is entirely here for it.” - EZoo



Hyped to be the most immersive outdoor festival experience New York City has ever seen, they revealed the next generation of stages. “Antheon: The Temple of Anthems” has taken on mainstage duties, “The Landing” which will provide festival-goers with an interactive visual-audio environment, “Levitron” an otherworldly, deep space experience, and “Morphosis” the new home for house music.














The Evolution of Electric Zoo

In a festival market that insists on booking almost the same artists for every event every year, Dimensions is leading the charge towards a truly unique musical experience. Check out ten standout artists who will deliver innovative and exciting sounds at this year’s edition of the festival off the shores of the Adriatic Sea.




Adam Beyer, Amelie Lens, Nicole Moudaber, Green Velvet, Dubfire, ANNA. No, this is not just a list of outstanding house and techno artists who have made indelible contributions to the culture. This is a list of artists who are on practically every festival lineup year after year.




Overall, it’s a good thing that house and techno are becoming more popular on a global scale. A culture once remanded to the custody of dingy warehouses and plagued by voracious and capricious gatekeepers who would prefer that four-on-the-floor beats never made it to the airwaves is now making it big.




But as with every significant change, there is give and take. It’s been great to see the global house and techno community take so much. So many more events are happening, and so many more eager fans can enjoy this incredible culture.




It’s the give that is lacking a bit, unfortunately. As a result of this rapid ascension, lineups are becoming more and more similar. Avid festival-goers have a chance to see the same artists anywhere five or ten times, and this lack of diversity also permeates into gender identity and race.




This is where Dimensions stands apart. Over 100 artists are performing, and the genre and human diversity are simply unmatched.




Dubstep, breaks, leftfield, electro, and live performances will all come together at the Garden Resort in Tisno, Croatia, September 1-5.




Every festival in the world needs to make a profit to continue through the years, and most rely on booking familiar artists to make that happen.




By contrast, Dimensions relies on curating a sonic experience that pushes boundaries to sustain itself. As a result, it attracts people looking for something fresh, something different, and those people will leave with a whole playlist of new favorite artists.




It’s very likely these ten will be on that playlist.




Mala

It’s not common to see a name like Mala alongside Helena Hauff and DVS1 on any lineup, but there is nothing common about Dimensions. Mala is the boss of the label Deep Medi Musik which recently celebrated 15 years of dubstep and bass-heavy releases, and Mala will undoubtedly dish out those sounds in full force at Dimensions.




Follow Mala on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter







Tama Sumo

There is no dance music fan too good for Berghain. That’s like a football fan saying they’re too good to watch a match at Wembley Stadium. So when resident DJs from Berghain play festivals, it’s always good to check them out. However, where most festivals book Ben Klock and Marcel Dettmann, Dimensions booked Tama Sumo. She’s about to take the dancefloor into the darkest depths of Berlin techno.




Follow Tama Sumo on Twitter







Dr. Banana

Despite the comical name, Dr. Banana is not monkeying around. Instead, he is a pure DJ who primarily spins on vinyl and has some of the last year's most celebrated Boiler Room sets. Without productions to weigh him down, his sets can go anywhere, and there’s no telling where he’ll go at Dimensions when he hosts his own stage with other notable artists like Jeremy Sylvester and Eliza Rose.




Follow Dr. Banana




D. Tiffany

Coming off the release of her latest album, Edge Of Innocence, the Canadian sensation D. Tiffany will bring her eclectic mix of house, techno, breaks, and LoFi to Dimensions. The album is also a collaboration with Roza Terenzi, and the two will also share their set at Dimensions.




Follow D. Tiffany on Facebook | Instagram




Youandewan

On the final day of Dimensions, Berlin’s own Youandewan will play two sets. One on the beach stage at the festival and the other during the boat party hosted by his label, Small Hours. Surrounded by the Adriatic's serene, crystal clear waters, both sets are the perfect way for people coming off an epic weekend of partying to soak up some serenity. There is no one better to curate such calm energy than the jazzy, funky sounds of Youandewan.




Follow Youandewan on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter




Gene On Earth

This year, a cartoon man who resembles a combination of Mario and the Pip Boy from the Fallout game series slowly inhabited the world of house and techno, and his name is Gene On Earth. With a few sparse singles released beginning in March, GOE soon released his debut album, Time On The Vine, this past June, and it is chalked full of groovy minimal soundscapes overlaid with all types of beats. When GOE plays at Dimensions, there likely won’t be a hologram of his cartoon persona, but his music will provide the wonder and colors of an animated world.




Follow Gene On Earth on Facebook | Instagram




Batu

Of the hundreds of artists on the Dimensions lineup, Batu is certainly one of the more active in terms of touring. This year alone, he’s played well-known niche festivals around Europe like Dekmantel, Freerotation, Outlook, and Sónar, and his music makes it clear why he is in demand. Take his latest album, Opal. The LP amalgamizes ambient, IDM, breaks, dubstep, and more into an aural journey that keeps listeners guessing with every new track. Quite a similar experience to one of his sets.




Follow Batu on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter







DMX Krew Live

Despite the name, DMX Krew is not a crew of people. It’s just one guy named Edward Upton, and he’s going to take Dimensions through an epic and energetic foray into electro. Because it’s a live set, it’s like he’s showing the crowd exactly what living inside a computer would sound like.




Follow DMX Krew on Instagram







ISAbella

ISAbella is an artist who goes full throttle from right out the gate. Her production career began in 2020 with her EP Audio Exotica, and immediately it became clear she was going to explore the furthest reaches of dance music with house, techno, minimal, melodic, and more all crammed into one release. Around the same time, she co-founded MARICAS Records, which just released its first compilation that includes all those sounds and other artists playing Dimensions like D. Tiffany.




Follow ISABella on Facebook | Instagram







Jossy Mitsu

First cutting her teeth on the decks at 18, Jossy Mitsu has shared her exponential talent regularly on the London-based tastemaking radio station, Rinse FM. Catch her playing anything and everything every Wednesday on the station. In truth, her widespread style is an accurate reflection of what the Dimensions 2022 lineup will offer.




Follow Jossy Mitsu on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter






10 Must See Artists at Dimensions Croatia

Gray Area founder Michael Julian Kovadlo discusses the launch of Debut, a new event series aimed at creating value for the entire dance music community.




No single person or descriptor captures the breadth and beauty of the house music community. For a relatively young genre, born in Chicago some 40-odd years ago, house has permeated many corners of the planet in less than half a century.




House is a feeling. It speaks to the soul. Our community is a vibrant, vast, and wonderfully diverse tapestry woven together under the sonic banner of the genre that we love.




Gray Area’s mission has always been to unite the international house music community, bringing together all its sub-genres and sub-cultures to unify the dance floor. In doing so, creating an authentic, sustainable, and close-knit global house music community means building an ecosystem of value for everyone. From promoters to venues, fans to artists. All from the ground-up.




So, we’ve launched a new venture to help us further that mission.




Brought to you by Gray Area, Debut is a new series that expands upon our commitment to creating an even more exciting and curious community. The concept? Debut will bring established and up-and-coming artists to new cities they have never performed in or headlined. It will help expand their fan base and, in turn, allow fans to discover some of the most unique and energizing artists making a name for themselves worldwide.




Why are we investing our efforts in launching this series? Because we’ve seen the beauty, symbiosis, and immense value created when the house music community comes together and opens itself to collaboration.




Debut, by design, is meant for discovery. It’s a timeless concept. An artist always remembers their first time playing in a new market. And fans often remember the first time they see a new artist live who they’ll eventually come to love.




I’ve been working in the music industry, helping “debut” artists for over 25 years. I still vividly remember the raw energy of the dancefloor for Gabriel & Dresden’s first big show in New York at Club Spirit in 2005. Or, in 2001, when Tiësto placed a DJ booth in the middle of the dancefloor at Exit and took the crowd on a powerful journey, culminating with his remix of Sarah McLachlan’s “Silence.” I was fortunate to be a part of the organizing team for these, and many other shows throughout the years. Besides a long list of artists we’ve introduced to new fans, we were also honored to be trusted debuting the very first proper editions of event brands in the U.S, including our beloved elrow and Awakenings.




I believe that exposing people to new experiences and music is just as exciting and relevant today as it was in the 2000s and 2010s—and it creates value for everyone involved.




First and foremost, Debut is a vessel for artists and venues to take risks and experiment. Artists and their teams sometimes prioritize booking shows at “soft ticket” venues (venues with a natural and consistent audience), only touring to new cities and playing at new venues when there is a guaranteed crowd to fill the show. Debut, backed by the power of the Gray Area network, creates an ecosystem of support that will help catalyze and cross-pollinate creative talent in new cities.




Secondly, Debut provides a unique value proposition for “hard ticket” venues that may not have as naturally sticky of a fan base. The more first-time artists a venue can book and sell out, the more its natural fan base will grow—bolstering its reputation, helping sell more tickets, and building a broader and stronger base that helps the venue fill out its event calendar.




This is the intrinsic value of Debut. It’s not a marketing tactic or arbitrary name, it’s core to who we are at Gray Area. I genuinely believe that when you bring new experiences and artists to new cities, it matters. By helping artists find new fans, we are building a bigger house music ecosystem for all.




Though we’re just now formalizing the Debut concept, Gray Area has already been debuting artists in new cities this year, including Miss Monique and Illyus & Barrientos. Over the next three months, we have upcoming Debut shows in New York with incredible artists like SHIMZA, Jaguar, PARTIBOI69, Shermanology, and a tastemaking Dutch label, PIV Records. We plan to collaborate with our friends in other markets to bring Debut to many cities around the world.




Today, it’s hard to imagine a world where everyone “wins.” Venues launch new parties weekly. Promoters fight over ticket sales. DJs jockey for a bigger font size on the flyer. But as the saying goes, a rising tide lifts all boats. We must remember what the dance music community has always been about: unity.




When we build a bigger dance floor, everyone wins.

[Op-Ed] Building a Bolder and More Vibrant House Music Ecosystem, For All

Merely a decade ago, Tisno was a quaint town on the idyllic and vibrant Croatian coast. Situated at the narrow strait separating the island of Murter from the mainland, the municipality of Tisno—approximately an hour by car from the country’s second-largest city, Split—is home to just over 3,000 permanent residents. The town boasts an alluring rocky landscape carpeted with pines and olive trees, nestled alongside crystal-blue, sea-urchin-packed waters (don’t go within your shoes) within view of the nearby Dalmatian islands.




In recent years, this Adriatic gem has sparkled even brighter, beckoning music lovers from around the world. Today, Tisno hosts a continuous carousel of internationally acclaimed (boutique) festivals throughout the summer—including SuncéBeat, Love International, and Dimensions—where the number of weekly ticket holders often eclipses the town's permanent population.




Tisno's ascent into a globally renowned dance music destination is no accident. It’s due, in large part, to August’s annual flagship gathering from one of house music's most respected brands, Defected Records.

Almost every house-head on earth knows the name Defected. In 2022, the London-based label, founded by industry titan Simon Dunmore, celebrated its 23rd anniversary and sixth time returning to The Garden Resort for its summertime pièce de résistance, Defected Croatia.


The musical juggernaut that is Defected Records is perhaps best known for its expertly curated catalog of house heaters and classics, collection of tastemaking sub-labels encompassing the breadth of house music, and stable of artists ranging from the most legendary to the most in-demand.



But Defected has struck gold in Croatia by curating an atmosphere that inverts the very elements of its global success, fostering intimacy, coziness, and a small, self-sustaining community born and raised under the proud banner of house music.




Most dance music fans have likely seen Defected's slogan, "In Our House We Are All Equal,” plastered across nearly every element of the label’s marketing, from merch to digital graphics to social media. For Defected, equality isn’t corporate lip service. It’s an ethos that permeates every moment of the 5,000-person festival.









Defected Croatia eschews hierarchy of all kinds. There is no VIP. There are no headliners in the traditional sense. Just a constant drumbeat of house, techno, and disco for six days and seven nights — every day from the moment the party kicks off at the main site (The Garden Resort) in the afternoon until the next day’s sunrise comes splitting through pines at the iconic Barbarella’s Discotheque (the official afterparty location).




This year, the self-described week of "house hedonism” saw Vintage Culture, Danny Tenaglia, Honey Dijon, Jayda G, Louie Vega, LP Giobbi and more than 100 other established and up-and-coming artists grace its stages and boat parties.




The pure cache of these names might typically conjure images of colossal festival stages and shoulder-to-shoulder, sardine-like crowds. But the secret sauce of Defected Croatia is the intimate, inclusive community it fosters and the somewhat blurred lines between fans and artists.









At any time, on a never-overly-crowded, never-pushy dancefloor, festivalgoers can find themselves moving and grooving next to Natasha Diggs, being summoned onto a boat party by Melvo Baptiste, snapping a selfie with Simon Dunmore by the merch tent, or casually standing in line for food next to any number house music legends. One might even find themselves kicking it with Defected dancers, DJs, and off-the-clock bartenders at the beachside after-after party, as the sun begins to creep higher into the sky.




But wherever you find yourself at Defected, rest assured that you’ll be immersed in a diverse, close-knit community of responsible partiers and music lovers who, above all, are looking out for the well-being and safety of one another.









Defected’s various imprints (Glitterbox, Classic Music Company, Faith, Sondela, to name a few) provide a structure and natural flow to the week. These imprints rotate hosting takeovers of the Garden Resort's four stages (Main Stage, Beach Stage, Olive Grove, and Press Play) and Barbarella’s (about a 20-minute drive from the main site).




This year, Thursday kicked off with a bright and energetic bang with Defected residents Sam Divine and Gorgon City lighting up the Main Stage, while Glitterbox’s Dave Lee ZR offered a late-night disco masterclass to an eager crowd. By Friday, the festival was in full swing. Amsterdam-based PIV Records, founded by DJ and producer Prunk, took fans on all night soulful house journey at the Olive Grove, ending with an astounding six way “B2B2B2B2B2B” sunrise set from the entire PIV artist lineup.









Saturday saw one of week's highlights: the first-ever day-an-night takeover of Barbarella’s—all in praise and celebration of the birth place of techno, Detroit. Detroit's DJ Holographic and Rimarkable (Defected Radio Show host) offered two beautifully intense, rhythmic sets paying homage to their native city, the birthplace of Motown and techno music. Sunday was a kaleidoscopic, glitter-fueled dream with the Glitterbox takeover of Defected’s Main Stage, featuring soulful house masters Kiddy Smile and Bob Sinclar.




The final nights were some of the biggest. On Monday, Classic Music Company took control of the Main Stage. Bulgarian DJ KiNK stunned the crowd with a set that included including live keyboard, synths, and digital air drums. The performance was bookended by sets from globally renowned artists Honey Dijon and Luke Solomon. They were riding the wave of the release of Beyoncé Renaissance, for which the long-time business partners and friends co-produced two tracks. The final day, the festival chartered a boat party featuring some of Defected 2022’s “Unsung Heroes,” winners of the label's competition to give up-and-coming a yearlong residency.








As the week wrapped in Tisno, the energy remained high. There was a pervasive atmosphere that, for many, the this was less of a “goodbye” and more of a "see you later.” And as the DJs took to the decks for the festival’s final sets, a single word was rolling off everyone’s tongues: “magic."




It’s clear: Defected Croatia isn’t just a facilitator of sonic hedonism but of freedom and unadulterated creativity. Like clockwork every year, it creates the physical, logistical, and psychological safety for true authenticity and adventure, calling to mind the words of Frankie Knuckles: “I am definitely in the right place doing the right things. These are the rewards.”





























Defected Croatia: A Blueprint for Responsible and Inclusive Partying  

September brings lower temperatures on the White Island, but party season is far from over. Everything feels more laid back with a little more elbow room in the clubs and at the beaches and coves. However, there are still plenty of options to enjoy from dusk-till-dawn with the best soundtrack.



Eivissa Jazz Festival | Ibiza Town | From August 29-September 3

Eivissa Jazz brings a majestic open-air festival that offers a program of concerts showcasing local and national talent, as well as artists from all over the world. There are some activities that can be enjoyed for free and some other events that require advanced booking. The Eivissa Jazz Festival celebrates its 34th edition and invites not just fans of jazz—welcoming them to discover the new talents of the island and national scenes—but also all lovers of good live music.



The first day of the festival is held in the Plaza de Sotavila and features a screening of The Glenn Miller Story. Also free of charge are the activities on Tuesday and Wednesday night that will take place at the Reina Sofía Park. During the rest of the days, jazz concerts are held in the beautiful Bastion of Saint Lucia in Dalt Vila at an affordable price. Eivissa Jazz infects the town with performances on different stages and marching bands to accompany people devoted to music for an entire week. Visit the town any of these days and enjoy jazz at its peak, as it has helped influence so much of modern music. Book ahead your tickets to enjoy Eivissa Jazz concerts



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Pyramid Daytime | Cova Santa | Wednesday, August 31

Amnesia’s flagship party is stopping one more time at Cova Santa for a daytime event. Pyramid lands at the fully open dancefloor space for a final party of the season, welcoming Maceo Plex & Friends to the decks. Eric Estornel, better known by his stage names Maceo Plex, Maetrick, or Mariel Ito, is not new to the island. He has played at all the megaclubs and even held his own residency , Mosaic by Maceo, at Pacha from 2016-2018. Over the past decade, Maceo Plex has become a dominating force in the world of underground dance music. His music delivers a unique sound between deep house, electr, techno, progressive house, and beyond. This is a great chance to enjoy Pyramid’s energy with a true heavyweight as the sun sets between the hills of Sant Josep!Get tickets for Pyramid Daytime with Maceo Plex & Friends this Wednesday



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EXHALE Closing Party | DC10 | Wednesday, August 31

Amelie Lens’ mini residency at DC10 concludes this Wednesday night after four successful weeks at the notorious clubbing venue. The Belgian DJ, producer, and EXHALE brand owner is ready to drop her energetic groovy techno at the Salinas hotspot for the last time this season. For the closing party, Lens invites world-class techno DJs Pan-Pot, Chris Liebing, Ellen Allien, and more to finish her debut residency on the White Island. The Lenske label boss aims to reach a wider audience with pure techno through EXHALE and keep on building a strong community. “I definitely think EXHALE brings a sound that is missing. Techno can be happy, too—come to EXHALE to find out!” says Lens.

Join Amelie Lens and guests for the Exhale Closing party at DC10



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Rock Nights | Pikes Ibiza | Thursday, September 1

Since its inception in 2005, Rock Nights is a special party, presenting this season a Western Hollywood ambiance under the theme “Midnight Cowboys.” The event takes place inthe amazing and charming Pikes, made up of quirky corners decorated with extravagant and entertaining elements.


Rock Nights offers an original musical selection, very different from most of Ibiza's musical offerings. That is why this party is one of the favorites for residents of the island. In addition, the atmosphere is so much fun and the tradition is that the artists from Dorado Live Shows (featuring Spanish singer Depedro this Thursday), then go to dance there with the public or even perform alongside Rock Night’s resident DJs, Lola Von Dage and Colin Peters.

Register for the guest list and join a unique gathering at Pikes



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Calvin Harris Closing Party | Ushuaïa Ibiza| Friday, September 2

A truly extraordinary open-air experience comes to an end with one of the world's most distinguished DJs as headliner. Calvin Harris finalizes the season this Friday after his 14-week run at the Platja D’en Bossa venue. On this special occasion, Harris will be supported by Billboard chart-topper MK, the renowned American producer and DJ who is well-known for his warm, emotive house sounds, plus additional artists. The venue will go wild for the last time with mind-blowing visuals announcing Calvin’s arrival on stage, who will deliver a mix of his own biggest hits along with sounds from his latest album, Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 2(released less than a month ago) and all-time dance music classics till Ushuaïa closes its doors at midnight. Come to celebrate what has been Harris’ greatest season to date in Ibiza!Get your tickets for Calvin Harris closing party at Ushuaïa

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Paul Kalkbrenner | Ushuaïa Ibiza| Sunday, September 4

A titan of techno, who has become a regular at Ushuaïa’s opening and closing parties, is returning to Ibiza for the last time this summer. Paul Kalkbrenner’s own sound at the open-air venue is a match made in heaven and he will perform his legendary live set from day-to-night accompanied by German innovative artist and live music maestro Stephan Bodzin, with support coming from HOSH (delivering a DJ set). His iconic hit “Sky and Sand” holds the record for remaining #1 on the charts in Germany for 121 weeks, a song that you will definitely dance to if you are there.


Book your tickets to experience these German titans of techno at Ushuaïa



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