Last week was a whirlwind of amazing closing parties, but it’s not quite over yet!

We’ve got less than a handful of parties to go before the official end of the season, so here’s our roundup for you to dig your teeth into.

Will we see you on the island this weekend?

Music On Closing Party | Pacha Ibiza | Friday, October 13

Marco Carola is preparing for a final fiesta at Pacha Ibiza on Friday, October 13. Alongside Carola, techno legend Paco Osuna, and the incredible Cloonee will bring a mix of techno and tech house to the island’s oldest super club.

Since its inception in 2012, Music On has become an integral part of Ibiza's nightlife, with Pacha providing a fitting venue for its underground vibe since 2019. This closing party not only celebrates the end of the Music On parties for 2023, but also showcases the enduring appeal and evolution of the electronic music scene led by seasoned artists.

Online tickets are sold out, so make sure to get down there early to secure entry at the door.

Don’t miss out on the final Music On of the season.

Follow Marco Carola on Facebook | Instagram | Soundcloud

Amnesia Ibiza Closing Party | Saturday, October 14

Ending the summer on a high note, Amnesia’s closing party lineup features some incredible talent from the techno and house scene, including Charlotte de Witte, Deborah De Luca, Danny Howard, Jamie Jones, Joseph Capriati, and Nina Kraviz among others, across both the Main Room and the Terrace.

The party celebrates a mammoth season for the iconic Amnesia, who this year collaborated with world-renowned brands like Paradise and Elrow, each bringing a unique essence to the season's events.

Get your tickets to the closing parties of closing parties.

Follow Amnesia Ibiza on Facebook | Instagram

Solomun +1 Closing Party | Pacha Ibiza | Sunday, October 15

Not only does this closing party mark the end of the Solomun +1 residency in 2023, but it is also the final event of Pacha Ibiza’s 50th anniversary year.

Flor the closing Solomun and his guest Dixon will be gracing the decks, showcasing the very best in techno music.

The duo will start with solo sets, eventually merging into a back-to-back set, a tradition that has become the hallmark of Solomun +1 nights.

Don’t miss out - this will be one for the memory books!

Get there early to secure a ticket.

Follow Solomun on Spotify | Instagram

UNA MÂS | Club Chinois Ibiza | Monday, October 16

Throughout October, Club Chinois is inviting outdoor promotors the opportunity to have a branded night in their opulent club. 

On Monday, October 16, Ben Klock, Fell Reis, Marina George, Tony Castello, Sarahrey, and Fabrice will be giving us one more chance to have a dance on closing party weekend.

The question is, can you handle one more party?

Book your tickets to this one-off party.

Follow Ben Klock on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

If you are lucky enough to be on the island for another couple of weeks, there are still some great parties to attend.

Club Chinois is hosting a 2-party closing party for Trip, on October 28 and November 4, featuring Apollonia, Ricardo Villalobos, and Sonja Moonear among others, as well as their Halloween party named ‘Shadows’ on October 31.

Playa Soleil also have a Halloween bash on October 31, with Rock Nights in charge for the evening.

Akasha Ibiza are starting their winter series of events, including Burning Man fundraisers, Summarians, and Ethereal. The vibe at Las Dalias is unmatched, so make sure to head there if you’re on the island in the off-season.

And that’s it! It’s been an absolute pleasure to highlight the very best in parties across the island this summer, and we cannot wait to do it all again next year.

See you in approximately 197 days!

This Week in Ibiza (Oct 13 - Oct 16)

In 1996, nestled within Amsterdam's vibrant landscape, a new chapter in electronic music was being written: the inception of the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE). This initial event wasn't the large-scale festival we recognize today but a more intimate gathering focused on the business side of the Dutch music industry. Hosted in a single hotel on the Vijzelgracht, ADE began as a platform for industry insiders to connect and share.

Founded by former Director Richard Zijlma, who is now the head of Conservatorium Haarlem, and the Buma/Stemra Foundation, ADE was developed to champion the rights of composers, lyricists, and music producers across the Netherlands. The collaboration's strength and vision for ADE were evident from its early success. 

By its second iteration in 1997, the event had expanded to De Balie for its daytime conferences. By night, 30 DJs provided the soundtrack for attendees at Amsterdam's iconic venues: Paradiso, Escape, and Melkweg.

But ADE was never just about music; it aimed to capture the ethos of dance culture from its earliest days. Dance music has its roots in underground movements and served as an anthem for protests against mainstream norms and as a celebration of diverse cultures, notably black, queer, and trans communities. ADE sought to amplify these roots, providing a voice to the often voiceless in the world of electronic music.

The conference element of ADE has always been its backbone. It serves as a global meeting point for the electronic music industry. The event's reach expanded dramatically, drawing attendees from all aspects of music production, from DJs and producers to brand managers.

Over the years, Amsterdam's DeLaMar Theatre became a primary venue for these interactions, hosting myriad conferences, lectures, and workshops.

As the years went by, the Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation took the reins in 2018, overseeing the festival's growth into an even larger entity. From its singular venue in 1996, ADE exploded to feature over 1,000 events across nearly 200 venues by this time. Such expansion bore witness to ADE's evolution from a local industry event to a global phenomenon in electronic music.

Each ADE also brings the unveiling of the DJ MAG Top 100, a ranking initiated in the '90s. With votes from around 350,000 fans annually, this list has seen legends like Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, and David Guetta rise to the top, emphasizing ADE's central role in the dance music arena.

In summary, the Amsterdam Dance Event's history is a journey of passion, vision, and continuous growth. From its modest beginnings to its present-day stature, ADE remains a pivotal moment on the electronic music calendar, reflecting the genre's evolution and the city of Amsterdam's enduring commitment to the arts.

Echoes from the Canals: The Rise of ADE

Who’s ready for a big weekend of closing parties in Ibiza?

The buzz on the island is unmistakable, we are at peak closings and the crowd on the island is here for just one thing - the clubs, the music, and that iconic Ibiza vibe!

There are so many events to choose from, so we’ve put together a selection of the very best for you to enjoy this weekend.

Music On | Pacha Ibiza | Friday, October 6

The penultimate party is upon us! This Friday, Pacha Ibiza is set to host the penultimate Music On party of the summer season, with Marco Carola of course, filled with techno and house music.

Alongside Carola, talented DJs Wade and Chelina Manuhutu will take the stage, keeping the energy high from midnight until the early morning hours.

Known for its dedicated fanbase and being a staple Friday night event, Music On at Pacha has carved out its reputation as a prime destination for underground music enthusiasts on the White Isle. You’ve simply got to be there.

Online tickets sold out. Some will be available on the door.

Follow Marco Carola on Facebook | Instagram | Soundcloud

The Vortex | Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza Closing Party | Saturday, October 7

If you’re on the island this weekend, you’re probably not going to stop hearing about The Vortex. 

Playa d’en Bossa giants Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza have joined forces for a mammoth closing party double-header, very much like they did for their opening fiesta back in May.

Kicking off at 1pm, the likes of Peggy Gou and Bicep will headline the al-fresco portion of the party. 

Then, when nighttime falls, Hï Ibiza will open its doors and we’ll be partying all the way through to sunrise and beyond.

This is going to be one for the books!

One last chance for tickets.

Follow Ushuaïa Ibiza on Facebook | Instagram

Follow Hï Ibiza on Facebook | Instagram

WooMooN Closing Party | Cova Santa Ibiza | Sunday, October 8

WooMooN closing takes place on Sunday and is the last date of Cova Santa’s summer season.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing WooMooN yet; it’s a unique blend of music, art, healing, and fun, with live performances, interactive areas, and even a market with local crafts.

It’s the perfect day-to-night party. Top tip: make sure you’re there for golden hour because the place really transforms at sunset.

The party starts outside at 5pm and transitions down to the club from midnight until 5am.

Don’t miss out, get your tickets for the final event at Cova Santa.

Follow Bora Uzer on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Circoloco Closing Party | DC-10 Ibiza | Monday, October 9

It’s one of the biggest closing parties of the season, and it’s right around the corner.

The Circoloco closing party at DC-10 has, quite frankly, an incredible lineup, including the likes of Seth Troxler, Tania Vulcano, Adriatique, ANOTR, Bedouin and so many more!

Kicking off at 6pm, there’s a 12-hour stomping session ready and raring to go. 

Plus, new for 2023, Circoloco have launched an event on Tuesday, October 10, named ‘The Day After’. No lineup has been released as yet, but it will run from 9pm - 5am. We just know that this is going to be epic.

Get your tickets and celebrate with Circoloco.

Follow Circoloco on Facebook | Instagram | Soundcloud

Moon Harbour | Club Chinois Ibiza | Tuesday, October 10

The head honcho of Moon Harbour returns to Ibiza on Tuesday, October 10, for a night of strong underground vibes at Club Chinois. 

Matthias Tanzmann will be playing B2B with Davide Squillace, both supported by Milou. 

It’s the 2nd in the series of late-season parties by the Marina Botafoch club, and if Moon Harbour’s pre-season showcase was anything to go by, this is an unmissable event.

Purchase tickets and experience Club Chinois.

Follow Matthias Tanzmann on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

The Ritual with Anané & Louie Vega Closing Party | Club Chinois Ibiza | Wednesday, October 11

The Ritual is a unique event curated by the celebrated musical duo Anané and Louie Vega, where genres are blended and a fusion of music, culture, and spirituality brings all kinds of people together on the dance floor.

The closing party is taking place on Wednesday, October 11, and Anané and Louie will be joined by some special guests who are yet to be announced.

Get your tickets to this mid-week closing.

Follow Louie Vega on Spotify | Facebook | Instagram

This Week in Ibiza (Oct 6 - Oct 12)

We're definitely feeling the shift in energy on the island as we dive deeper into the closing party season! There's excitement in the air, happy faces all around and and the clubbing calendar is looking busier than ever!

We’ve cherry-picked the best of the best for the next 7 days, so let’s get down to business with our selections:

Defected Closing Party | Eden Ibiza | Friday, September 29

21 parties have passed and we are left with just one more chance to enjoy the ‘back-to-basics’ parties by Defected at Eden Ibiza. 

Low Steppa, Hannah Wants, Darius Syrossian, Monki, and Sam Divine will all be taking to the decks - Defected regulars we all know and love.

There’ll be a queue around the block for this one so make sure to get your tickets and get down there early.

Remember, “It’s all about House!”. No frills, good vibes, and a pure house music policy.

Finish the season strong at Defected. Get your tickets.

Follow Low Steppa on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Elrow Closing Party | Amnesia Ibiza | Saturday, September 30

Are you ready to Dance With The Serpent?

The closing party brings a brand new theme from Barcelona-born elrow - which is a collaboration with Austrian artist Nychos. From what we can tell, it looks like it’s going to be an incredible explosion of color, slithering serpents, and, as always, incredible confetti explosions and inflatable drops.

Topping the bill is Adam Beyer, and joining him on the Terrace are Joris Voorn, Sarah Story, Bastian Bux, and Toni Varga, promising a night of tech-house fun. Ilario Alicante will be playing in Elrow City (the Main Room) all night long.

One last chance to enjoy elrow in Ibiza in 2023.

Follow Adam Beyer on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Pyramid | Amnesia Ibiza | Sunday, October 1

There couldn’t be a better way to end your weekend than witnessing The Chemical Brothers at Amnesia. Just like last year, the duo is back for a one-off performance for the home-grown party Pyramid, and we’re even getting one more hour of fun as, for this Sunday only, the doors open at 10pm.

The Chemical Brothers will be joined by Eats Everything and Marco Faraone on the Terraza, while Kobosil, Fatima Hajji, and Reinier Zonneveld (live) make up the roster in the Main Room. 

It’s going to be a busy one!

Don’t miss out, get your tickets before they disappear.

Follow The Chemical Brothers on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

D4 D4NCE Closing Party | O Beach Ibiza | Monday, October 2

There’s nothing better than a Monday in Ibiza. 

Your social media feed may be full of people getting ‘back to the grind’ but we’ve got a better option for you. 

Defected-owned D4 D4NCE is having its closing party at the iconic O Beach Ibiza, headlined by none other than house music legend Roger Sanchez. 

It’s a day-to-night party full of feel-good vibes, high energy, and, of course, the famous O Beach performers.

Get your tickets or VIP beds here.

Follow Roger Sanchez on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Camelphat Closing Party | Pacha Ibiza | Tuesday, October 2

Camelphat’s first-year residency at Pacha comes to a close on Tuesday, so make sure to get down there if you haven’t had a chance to yet this season.

Joining the Grammy-nominated duo for the final hurrah are electronic music maestros Stephan Bodzin, who’ll be treating us to a live set, and Mita Gami, a rising star with a unique sound that the island has loved this summer.

Pacha’s 50th anniversary celebrations this year have echoed through all the residencies, and this closing party will be very much the same.

Purchase tickets to this epic closing party.

Follow Camelphat on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Paradise Closing Party | Amnesia Ibiza | Wednesday, October 3

The Paradise closing party at Amnesia is going to be an unforgettable end to a strong summer series of events.

Jamie Jones, the mastermind behind the event brand, will be joined by techno and tech-house icons Joseph Capriati and Hot Since 82, as well as the incredible Marshall Jefferson and Wheats on the Terrace. 

Ilario Alicante, Richy Ahmed, William Djoko, Alisha, and Dateless will all be bringing their sound to the Main Room.

This season's Paradise parties, celebrating a decade of Jamie Jones’ label, Hot Creations, have been the talk of Ibiza, and this grand finale is going to be one for the books.

Buy tickets to Paradise and get ready to party.

Follow Jamie Jones on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Tale of Us present Afterlife Closing Party | Day and Night | Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza | Thursday, October 5

If there’s one thing that Playa d’en Bossa has going for it, it’s the fact that Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza have absolutely mastered the double-header opening and closing parties.

Techno label Afterlife is bringing an epic day-to-night fiesta to Ibiza, full to the brim with some of the best DJs and producers from around the world today. Legendary doesn’t quite cover it.

Buy tickets to this sell-out event before they all go.

Follow Tale of Us on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

This Week in Ibiza (Sept 29 - Oct 5)

Closing parties are well and truly upon us, so it’s been difficult to choose just one party per day for our weekly round-up. 

But we’ve done our best to choose the best, so let’s waste no time and dive right into ‘This Week in Ibiza:


Defected | Eden Ibiza | Friday, September 22

San Antonio’s number one party is back this Friday with their penultimate event of the summer. 

Defected is pulling out all the stops with this week’s lineup which includes DJ EZ, Idris Elba, Amine Edge & DANCE, Groove Armada, David Penn, and a B2B set between Rio Tashan and Paige Tomlinson.

There’ll be queues out the door so make sure you get down there early and experience the party that’s all about house.

Start your weekend right, get your tickets now.

Follow DZ EZ on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Black Coffee | Hï Ibiza | Saturday, September 23

A couple of weeks ago, Black Coffee was a special guest at Afterlife. 

Now, Saturday is the date when that favor gets returned. Tale of Us join the weekend party as special guests in the Theatre alongside Trancemicsoul, with Anthony Middleton and Airrica joining Damian Lazarus in the Club Room.

Expect afro beats, beautiful decor, stunning visuals, and a crowd that are definitely making the most of the weekend in Ibiza.

Get your ticket to Black Coffee’s penultimate party of the season.

Follow Black Coffee on Twitter | Instagram | Spotify

Solomun +1 | Pacha Ibiza | Sunday, September 24

Following his yearly free party in the port of Ibiza on Wednesday 20th, Solomun heads back to Pacha Ibiza on Sunday to continue his +1 residency. 

With 4 weeks still remaining, you’ve still got time to enjoy the Diynamic label boss’ night, but you don’t want to miss out on this week’s special guest, DJ duo Âme.

With the +1 guest getting an equal amount of time to shine, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy elongated sets full of deep, melodic sounds.

Get tickets and experience Sunday vibes on the island.

Follow Solomun on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Amnesia Presents Closing Party | Amnesia Ibiza | Monday, September 25

House music’s best DJs, producers, and selectors are back for one final party at the iconic Amnesia Ibiza on September 25 for Amnesia Presents. 

From 11pm to 6am, you’ll be able to enjoy the perfect blend of feel-good house music, iconic anthems, and fresh tracks from Greta Levska, Danny Howard, Sonny Fodera, and Gorgon City.

Get your tickets to this Monday night party.

Follow Gorgon City on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

The Martinez Brothers | Hï Ibiza | Tuesday, September 26

It’s a special Tuesday at Hï Ibiza, as The Martinez Brothers go back to back with Hot Creations label boss Jamie Jones. 

With only a couple more parties left in their summer residency, The Martinez Brothers are pulling out all the stops, bringing in Mason Collection and Salomé Le Chat to the Theatre. 

Veteran techno DJ, Paco Osuna will be holding the fort in the Club Room as always, supported this week by Melanie Ribbe and Fer BR.

Get your tickets to see a special B2B at the world’s number-one club.

Follow The Martinez Brothers on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

El Cielo Closing Party | 528 Ibiza | Wednesday, September 27

In celebration of Pacha Ibiza's 50th anniversary, the iconic club partnered with 528 Ibiza for a series of five outdoor parties, dubbed El Cielo. 

The closing party, scheduled for Wednesday 27 September, will be headlined by the rapidly rising Amsterdam-based duo ANOTR and their label No Art. 

This is a unique event not to be missed, marking a fitting end to the El Cielo series and hinting at more to come in 2024.

Get your tickets to this unforgettable al fresco party.

Follow ANOTR on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Sven Väth presents Catharsis Closing Party | Akasha Ibiza | Thursday, September 28

Finally, join us for the grand finale at Akasha Ibiza as legendary German DJ, Sven Väth, delivers the last chapter of his sell-out event series, Catharsis. 

Starting at 7pm in the garden of Las Dalias before transitioning to Akasha's intimate indoor vibes, you’ve got one more chance to immerse yourself in Väth's iconic sets which span genres and decades.

Don’t miss out - get your tickets.

Follow Sven Väth on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

This Week in Ibiza (Sept 22 - Sept 28)

If you’re heading to Ibiza this weekend, you are in for a treat!

The island’s energy is at an all-time high, the parties are still in full swing and we are gearing up for an incredible end to an iconic season on the White Isle.

But, before the big closings roll around, we’ve got a selection of parties over the next 7 days that you shouldn’t miss out on.

Let’s dive in.

Music On | Pacha Ibiza | Friday, September 15

We’re kicking off the weekend with the 19th Music On of the season. And if the past few weeks are anything to go by, you are going to want to snap up tickets quickly. 

Marco Carola’s Friday night stomp session has sold out online for at least the past month - but not to worry - some tickets will be available on the door if you don’t manage to get them online.

On Friday, September 15, Carola will be joined by Swiss DJ and Music On alumni Andrea Oliva as well as Italian DJ and producer Ale De Tuglie, who has toured with Marco Carola throughout 2021 and 2022.

Start your weekend right, get your tickets now.

Follow Marco Carola on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify


ANTS | Ushuaïa Ibiza | Saturday, September 16

10 years in and ANTS is showing no signs of slowing down. Since the party first hit the White Isle in 2013, it’s become one of the best underground events on the island. It’s popular with the workers on the island, as well as holiday-makers, every week filled with an up-for-it crowd.

This Saturday is headlined by Paul Kalkbrenner, who will be treating us to a live set. Completing the lineup are Ushuaïa resident Raul Rodriguez, Maze & Masters, Maya Jane Coles, and a B2B set from Kölsch and Joris Voorn. Get there early to enjoy the intimate sets at the back of the club before the main stage opens.

Get your ticket and join the colony.

Follow Paul Kalkbrenner on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify



Franky Wah presents SHÉN Ibiza | Club Chinois | Sunday, September 17

Franky Wah has been making waves in the music scene as one of the most talented DJs and producers to appear in recent years, and he is set to light up Club Chinois once again this Sunday, joined by Cristoph, Made By Pete, and Artche.

Franky has certainly made a mark in his first Ibiza residency, not only wowing crowds week in, week out, with his ability to command the dance floor and keep the energy high, but also by the calibre of guest DJs on the lineups.

The music, decor, and visuals blend seamlessly with Franky’s vision for the SHÉN series, pulling together his Chinese heritage, ethos, and sound.

Get tickets and experience clubbing luxury.

Follow Franky Wah on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify



Funky Aura Ibiza | Akasha Ibiza | Monday, September 18

Funky Aura is back on Monday, September 18, at Akasha Ibiza with none other than Grammy Award-winning producer David Morales alongside island favorite, Willie Graff.

It’s a night where you can relive the magic of Ibiza's past, when there were no phones, no VIP, and no worries! Funky Aura celebrates the island's authentic and creative spirit that's often overshadowed by commercialization, exactly how it was back in the early 2010s when the original Aura club was in full swing.

Formerly a celebrity hotspot, the original club attracted the likes of James Blunt, Cara Delevingne, and Charlotte Tilbury, and now, after a decade of closure, it finds a fresh home at Akasha.

Get your tickets to this Monday night party and extend your weekend.

Follow David Morales on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify


Camelphat | Pacha Ibiza | Tuesday, September 19

Liverpudlian DJ duo Camelphat are heading into the last few weeks of their first summer residency at Pacha Ibiza on September 19, an event series that has proven to be incredibly popular throughout 2023.

For this installment, German producer and composer Henrik Schwarz will be treating us to a live set at the island’s oldest superclub, with Italian DJ and producer Ivory rounding up the lineup.

Get your tickets for Camelphat at Pacha.

Follow Camelphat on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify


FISHER | Hï Ibiza | Wednesday, September 20

We love it when things come full circle in Ibiza. After co-headlining the incredible Bodyworks residency at Hï Ibiza in 2019, FISHER and Solardo are coming back together in 2023 at the very same spot. The Theatre will also experience incredible sonic selections from Lauren Lo Sung.

Meanwhile, in the Club Room, Beltran, Jackson, Yotto and Vintage Culture will be proving the beats - the latter 2 in a B2B set.

It’s the penultimate FISHER party of the season, make sure to get down there.

Get your tickets to this midweek masterpiece.

Follow FISHER on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify


All Day I Dream Closing Party | Cova Santa Ibiza | Thursday, September 21

On September 21, Lee Burridge's All Day I Dream of Ibiza Magic will take over the enchanting Cova Santa Ibiza for its 2023 closing party, blending dreamy tunes with the island's magical energy from 7pm until the early hours.

Cova Santa always creates a mesmerizing experience, and ADID is no exception. Complete with flowing drapes, lanterns, and melodic house music, the closing party will capture the essence of Ibiza alongside Burridge's signature sounds.

Don’t miss out - get your tickets.

Follow Lee Burridge on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

This Week in Ibiza (Sept 15 - Sept 21)

From the hustle and bustle of New York City to the grandeur of the Grammy stage, CID has carved a unique path in the music industry. Once an accounting student, CID's passion for the art of sound led him away from the ledgers and into the studio. Despite the potential comforts his educational background might have provided, CID ventured into uncharted waters, making history by remixing Lana Del Rey's "Summertime Sadness" to Grammy-winning acclaim. But his journey didn’t stop there. 

His transition from producing for others to establishing his unmistakable sound has been both stirring and brilliant. CID’s ability to turn any song into a club anthem showcases his innate talent, and his continuous evolution promises that the best is yet to come. His venture, Night Service Only, demonstrates his oath to spotlight emerging talent, further solidifying his reputation as not just a master producer, but as an industry vanguard. Dive deeper into the world of CID, as we explore his musical journey, the influences that have shaped him, and his vision for the future.

How has your musical journey evolved since your Grammy win in 2014?

That was a real turning point for me as an artist. At the time I was producing mostly for other people, and still not very confident in myself as a producer. After winning the Grammy, I said to myself, ‘Okay, I’m good enough, and I’m going to make it back to the Grammys.’ I was able to do just that in 2017 for my remix of LSD (Labrinth, Sia, Diplo) - “Audio”. 

Being a good producer is only part of the puzzle. Trying to find yourself as an artist is a lot harder. Early on I had a lot of success producing specific styles for other people, but when I made it for myself even though it was just as good, it just didn't have the same impact. It took me a few years of trying different stuff to finally figure out the sound I wanted to make and play live in my DJ sets. 

How do you think your academic background has influenced your approach to your music career?

Specifically, from an academic point of view, I don't think my degree in accounting has helped my career much haha. I did it mostly because as a first-generation American, it was important to my parents for me and my brothers to get our degrees. I don’t regret it, and in the back of my head having something to fall back on alleviated some stress early on in my journey.

Could you elaborate on the current projects that you're working on?

I’m always making new music and have some exciting tracks I’ve been teasing out. My focus is still club tracks, but I’ve got a few that are a bit more vocal-driven coming soon, that I’m excited about. Other than that, I’ve been really focused on growing my label Night Service Only. There are so many amazing producers out there, and I feel like I’ve finally gotten myself, and the label to a point where I can give artists a real platform for their music!

Since founding Night Service Only, what has been the most rewarding aspect of running your own label? What has been the most challenging?

The most rewarding is discovering someone who might be a smaller artist, giving them a platform, and watching them grow. The most challenging is for sure the time it takes to really run a label and handle all the admin things that come along with it. Luckily now I’ve hired someone to handle some admin stuff and that lets me focus more on the A&R side, listening and signing the music.

What advice would you give to aspiring house artists?

I tell everyone who's starting out to BE PATIENT and not rush into things. Perfect your craft, find something in your sound that makes you stand out from everyone else. When I was starting to get noticed, there weren't as many producers as there are today and it wasn't as easy to make things sound good. At the time, that’s what helped me stand out.



But now, everyone has figured out how to make it sound good from a technical point, so the actual idea is way more important. I listen to hundreds of demos and music for my radio show every week, and the number of tracks that follow the same formula and jump on the next trend quickly is crazy. They all start to sound the same. BE UNIQUE BE DIFFERENT, but also make sure there’s an audience for it and a group of bigger DJs who can champion your music and play it in their sets.

How has your Spanish heritage and the diverse musical influences of your upbringing continued to shape your music style?

I grew up engulfed in Spanish culture. I spent my childhood going to Spain every summer, and that opened me up early to what was happening in Europe musically. I think the best example of how it directly shaped my music came later in life haha. There’s this chant drinking song my friends and I would sing during fiestas in our town.

It goes ‘alcohol, alcohol, alcohol, alcohol, alcohol, hemos venido a emborracharnos el resultado nos da igual.’ During the pandemic, I missed my friends in Spain and thought they would get a kick out of it if I sampled that melody for a track. That turned into my track “Carnaval De Paris” which came out on Fisher’s label.

I had no idea that it was a song that was chanted at futbol games in every country in Europe, and seeing the reactions and people singing to the melody in so many different languages was really special.

Could you talk about your creative process when it comes to producing a new track? Has it changed over the years?

As the touring and DJing has gotten busier, being able to stay focused in the studio has gotten harder. There is a lot of pressure to consistently deliver great music, but I always try to remember why I started doing this in the first part, and to just have fun in the studio while I'm making music. If it's something that I'm genuinely excited about, that usually shows when I’m playing it out and usually has a better chance of resonating with other people. 

My focus the last couple of years has been ‘Is this something I will want to play in my live sets?’ As a producer, you sit in a room alone for countless hours, trying to stay confident in an idea, but also doubting if people are going to like it. There's no better feeling than playing an idea out for the first time and seeing the crowd reacting to it.

What was the most memorable moment for you during a live set?

There have been a lot of amazing moments over the years. Do Lab at Coachella last year was really special. Knowing how many amazing artists were playing at the festival at the same time, and seeing that stage fill up for my set gave me goosebumps.

Can you tell us a memorable moment you have shared with a fan?

It’s always special to show up at a set and see a fan out in the crowd who took the time to make a totem, banner, or bracelet specific to me. I played Electric Forest earlier this summer and did a set at the Honeycomb stage which had a 360 DJ booth, and the whole set people kept handing me bracelets and pins and it was amazing! Also, to the fans who made and gifted me a pin with my dog Quincy’s face on it haha..I was blown away.

Are there any artists, producers, or industry figures who have significantly influenced your career in recent years?

I’ve been lucky to get the support of a lot of big DJs over the years. Kaskade really gave me my first shot and opened the doors for me to stand on my own two feet as a touring DJ. More recently I would have to say, Lee Foss. I made a conscious effort to focus on a clubbier house/tech house sound in 2019. Lee really gave me a platform to showcase my music on Repopulate Mars which really helped things grow for me post-pandemic.

How do you approach collaborations with other artists? Are there any dream collaborations on your list?

I think collaborations are a great way to grow and not only open yourself up to new fans, but also push yourself and learn new things in the studio. The key for me has always been. If I am the smaller artist trying to get a collab with a bigger artist, first, having some kind of relationship with them (even if it’s just over DM’s) makes things easier and more personal.

Also, if you are the smaller artist, make sure you are coming up with a great idea that they will get excited about. On the flip side, if I am collaborating with a smaller artist, I am looking for a standout idea that I can build off and help make better. As far as dream collaborations, I would love to get in the studio with Jamie Jones. He’s been my favorite DJ for a long time, and he just has an incredible ear for music as a DJ, producer, and A&R.

Outside of music, what are your passions or hobbies?

This is always a hard one to answer! Music has been my main passion my entire life, I was just one of the lucky ones able to make a career out of it. It's tough to have a balanced life outside of music, but I really enjoy spending time with friends, loved ones, and my dog Quincy when I am home. When I have the time, I am an avid gamer. There’s still nothing like it to really get my mind off things and the chaos going on around me haha.

What's the strangest or funniest thing you've seen a crowd do while you're on stage?

What happens at a CID show stays there haha. There's definitely been some outrageous things that happen at shows. Sometimes it's the crowd, sometimes I drink more than I should and I'm the culprit haha.

Imagine you're in a high-speed car chase. What track are you blasting in the car to fuel the adrenaline rush?

I’d probably crank Firestarter by The Prodigy.

If you had to create a dance track inspired by your favorite food, what would the track be called and what kind of vibes would it have?

Well, my favorite food is Pulpo a la Gallega which is octopus. So, it would probably have to have a summer vibe and be super vibey.

If your favorite sports team was heading into a championship game and they asked you to write their hype-up song, what would it sound like?

Well, I guess I kind of already did! My favorite team is Deportivo de la Coruña. Even though they are terrible now haha, but I would love to see the crowd getting pumped up to “Carnaval De Paris.”

Beyond the Grammy: How CID Swapped Spreadsheets for CDJ’s

Another week - another incredible list of parties for you to head to while you're in Ibiza.

We've whittled our choices down to the very best over the next 7 days, so read on to find out the creme-de-la-creme of Ibiza events this coming week.

HE.SHE.THEY Closing Party | Amnesia Ibiza | Friday, September 8

Inclusive party and record label, HE.SHE.THEY is back for one final party at Amnesia Ibiza on Friday, September 8, with an epic list of DJs providing the soundtrack. You’ll be treated to a B2B set from Felix da Housecat and HoneyLuv, alongside solo sets from Heidi, Horse Meat Disco, and Maze & Masters.

Designed for everyone, irrespective of gender, race, or sexuality, HE.SHE.THEY. offers one of the most inclusive parties on the island. So, dress up or down, experiment, and get ready for a fun-filled night.

Get your tickets for this incredible party.

Follow Felix da Housecat on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Black Coffee | Hï Ibiza | Saturday, September 9

Black Coffee is back for week 16 of his summer residency at Hï Ibiza, bringing with him Marco Carola and Ms. Mada to The Theatre. As always, Crosstown Rebels founder, Damian Lazarus will be hosting the Club Room, joined this week by Dennis Cruz and Francesca Lombardo.

It’s the most popular Saturday night party on the island, where you can expect afro beats, captivating visuals, and an atmosphere that can only be described as electric.

Black Coffee was Hï’s first resident DJ in 2017, and we can’t see him leaving anytime soon.

Discover Hï Ibiza - buy your ticket now.

Follow Black Coffee on Twitter | Instagram | Spotify

Solomun +1 | Pacha Ibiza | Sunday, September 10

The concept is simple. Solomun plus one special guest at Pacha Ibiza each and every Sunday. And this Sunday is no exception. The Bosnian-German DJ and producer will be joined by British DJ, producer, and record label owner Midland on September 10.

Solomun’s +1 concept has been a staple at Pacha since 2013, and since then has become one of the club's most successful parties. Don’t miss out!

Get tickets to this iconic Ibiza party.

Follow Solomun on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Circoloco | DC-10 Ibiza | Monday, September 11

Mondays and Circoloco at DC-10 go hand in hand. We’re already at week 20 of its 24-week residency this summer, so if you haven’t hit up this party yet in 2023, this is your sign!

Circoloco is deep-rooted in the party history of Ibiza, from the iconic after-parties in the late 90s and early 2000s to the 12-hour stomping sessions that it has become today, each week brings a mind-blowing lineup of underground, house, and techno DJs ready to take you on a musical journey like no other. 12 hours of no-frills music. Just the way we like it.

On September 11, Skrillex joins the lineup with a B2B set with Ahadadream, as well as sets from WhoMadeWho, Adam Port, Mano Le Tough, Sossa, and many more.

Get your tickets to this sell out event

Follow Circoloco on Facebook | Instagram

Do Not Sleep | Cova Santa Ibiza | Tuesday, September 12

The San Jose hills will come alive with tech house and underground vibes from 7pm until 5am on September 12 with the final installment of Do Not Sleep and Richy Ahmed’s Four Thirty Two label.

Outdoors you’ll enjoy sets from Richy Ahmed and Ashoju, and later on in the club, you’ll be listening to sounds from Jansons, Seb Zito, and another set from Richy Ahmed.

Remember, make sure to get there before sunset to see Cova Santa morph from day-party mode to night rave. It’s epic!

Get tickets to experience the final Do Not Sleep at Cova Santa in 2023.

Follow Richy Amned on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Bedouin present Saga | Pacha Ibiza | Wednesday, September 13

Bedouin are back at the island's oldest superclub on Wednesday, September 13, with their party Saga.

Originating in Heart (now Club Chinois) in 2017, Saga has gained a mass following which was proven more so than ever last year when it moved over to Pacha.

Returning for its second chapter this year, you can expect to be immersed in Middle-Eastern ambiance, adorned with drapes, incense, evocative dancers, and ethno-vocals alongside bewitching deep, desert, and shamanic house sounds from Bedouin, AMÉMÉ and Guy Gerber.

Get your tickets to this midweek masterpiece.

Follow Bedouin on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Tale of Us present Afterlife | Hï Ibiza | Thursday, September 14

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you would have seen that Tale of Us’ Afterlife at the number 1 club in the world has been absolutely epic this year.

And it’s about to get more epic, as they’ll be joined by special guest Black Coffee on September 14.

From the music to the lighting to the visuals, Afterlife is a must-do event on the White Isle. The Theatre room leans more toward melodic, progressive techno sounds, while the Club generally hits hard with a tougher, Berlin-style techno.

Which one will we find you in?

Don’t miss out - get your tickets.

Follow Tale of Us on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

This Week in Ibiza (Sept 8 - Sept 14)

Yep, it’s real. Your eyes do not deceive you. We are officially in September.

What does that mean for those of you who want to party in Ibiza this month?

Well, luckily for you (and us), even though there are a few closing parties coming up, the September party calendar is still jam-packed with events, every single day of the week.

Here’s our selection of must-do’s between the 1st and 7th of September.

Defected | Eden Ibiza | Friday, September 1

Kicking off the weekend and a new month is San Antonio’s favorite party, Defected. It’s back on Friday with Waze, Riva Starr, Low Steppa, Shermanology, and Alex Mills.

September 1st will be week 19 of its mammoth 23-week residency, and its popularity isn’t dwindling one bit.

Expect queues that stretch down the road and a dance floor packed front to back. Make sure to get there early, it’s going to be busy!





Get your tickets for this incredible party.

Follow Defected on Facebook | Instagram

El Cielo Diynamic Outdoor | 528 Ibiza | Saturday, September 2

September 2nd is the 2nd Diynamic Outdoor event at 528 Ibiza, headlined by the label’s co-founder, Solomun. 

He’ll be joined by Rafael Cerato, Gorgin, and ANTHY for a day-to-night party that you don’t want to miss out on.

Dynamic is well known for its legendary showcases and residencies worldwide, as well as their history on the island, from their Neon Nights parties at Sankeys to events and showcases at DC-10.

Now, they’re taking over 528 Ibiza and offering an unforgettable al fresco experience.





Discover 528 - buy your ticket now.

Follow Solomun on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Franky Wah presents Shén | Club Chinois Ibiza | Sunday, September 3

Closing off the weekend is Franky Wah’s Shén at Club Chinois. 

His residency this year has been a massive success and on September 3rd he’ll be joined by the legend that is Sasha as well as Yotto.

If the lineup on the night isn’t enough to convince you, the allure of Club Chinois might. Incredible sound system, 360-degree immersive visuals, and an amazing energy that you don’t find anywhere else on the island.





Get your tickets now and end your week right.

Follow Franky Wah on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Eric Prydz presents HOLO Ibiza Closing Party | Hï Ibiza Ibiza | Monday, September 4

Monday is your final chance to see Eric Prydz’s unbelievable HOLO show at Hï Ibiza. The Swedish superstar has wowed thousands and thousands of Ibiza party-goers so far this season, and now we have come to the closing party.

As always, he’ll be joined in the theatre by the legendary techno DJ and founder of Drumcode Records, Adam Beyer, and UK-based Cristoph.

The club room will see Josh Micky, DJ Boring and Sally C take to the decks before co-resident Patrick Topping takes control of the room.

If there’s one reason to extend your weekend - this is it!





Don’t miss out on the final chance to see HOLO in Ibiza this year.

Follow Eric Prydz on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Mystik by Ida Engberg | Club Chinois Ibiza | Tuesday, September 5

Ida Engberg is still shaking up the Ibiza club scene with her first solo residency, Mystik, at Club Chinois. 

The first female solo residency in Ibiza, ever, and she has definitely gone all out this summer, further solidifying her influence in the industry.

On September 5th, she’ll be joined by the legend that is Sasha, who is no stranger to the White Isle, having had a residency at Space as well as playing all over the island.





Purchase your ticket to this groundbreaking party

Follow Ida Engberg on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Paradise | Amnesia Ibiza | Wednesday, September 6

Midweek means just one thing, Paradise at Amnesia Ibiza.

Its move from DC-10 to Amnesia proved to be an amazing leap for Jamie Jones and the Paradise crew, with the party becoming an iconic clubbing event.

Known for its house and techno vibes, Paradise has consistently been one of Amnesia's top nights, attracting a massive music-loving audience.

This week, Jamie Jones will be going B2B with Loco Dice, with Alan Fitzpatrick, Chris Stussy, and Pirate Copy filling out the roster on the Terrace.

The Music Box (Club Room) sees wAFF, Luuk van Dijk, Manda Moor, and Joshwa take to the decks.





Get your tickets before they sell out.

Follow Jamie Jones on Facebook | Instagram | Soundcloud

Sven Väth presents Catharsis | Akasha Ibiza | Thursday, September 7

Legendary German DJ, Sven Väth, returns to Akasha Ibiza for the 4th installment of his sell-out event series, Catharsis. 

A titan in the techno world, Väth's immersive sets are famed for their diversity, traversing genres from minimal to techno, electro to ambient, with him pulling inspiration from his four-decade-long career.

The evening starts in the garden of Las Dalias from 7pm until midnight, before moving indoors to Akasha, where the three-time DJ Awards winner will continue spinning vinyl until the early hours.





Don’t miss out - get your tickets.

Follow Sven Väth on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

This Week in Ibiza (Sept 1 - Sept 7)

It’s officially the last week in August and I’m not entirely sure how I feel about it.

Is time going too quickly? Is the end of summer just around the corner?

One thing that is making me feel better is the calendar of incredible parties that are happening in Ibiza this week. Here are my daily top picks as we roll forward towards September.

Music On | Pacha Ibiza | Friday, August 25

The Friday night roadblock is back at Ibiza’s first superclub, with Marco Carola being joined by Amsterdam-based duo ANOTR and Spanish-born Cuartero on August 25.

Music On was born in 2012 and its parties were held for many years at Amnesia Ibiza. The move to Pacha took place in 2022, much to the surprise of the brand’s loyal fans - but over to Pacha they went, and we haven’t looked back since!



Don’t miss out on this sell-out party.

Follow Marco Carola on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify



ANTS | Ushuaïa Ibiza | Saturday, August 26

Since the party first hit the White Isle in 2013, ANTS has become one of the best underground events on the island. It’s popular with holiday-makers, workers, and locals, and this year it’s celebrating its 10-year anniversary. 

This Saturday, Nic Fanciulli will be playing back-to-back with a special guest who has yet to be announced. Who could it be? 

The rest of the lineup is made up of Manda Moor, Alec Monopoly, and Dunmore Brothers.



Get your tickets and party day to night.

Follow Nic Fanciulli on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify


Ben Hemsley Pool Party | Ibiza Rocks Hotel | Sunday, August 27

UK rising star Ben Hemsley has been making waves in Ibiza this summer with his pool-party residency at Ibiza Rocks. 

Since his debut single "Caress Me" absolutely sky-rocketed, Hemsley has consistently delivered hit anthems including the incredible "Erase Me," and his residency at Rocks, in partnership with Electric Ibiza and Bebé Recordings, is a daytime fiesta full of tech-house, Balearic house, techno, trance, and SO much more.

Book your tickets or beds for this incredible experience.

Follow Ben Hemsley on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify


Pyramid Carry On | Cova Santa Ibiza | Monday, August 28

There’s nothing more Ibiza than a carry-on party. And that’s exactly what’s happening at Cova Santa this Monday. 

Amnesia’s home-grown party Pyramid are holding a follow-on event from 7pm until 6am at the al-fresco San Jose venue. 

Luciano and Ricardo Villalobos have been teased online as being on the lineup, but as with anything by Pyramid, you know that you’re not going to be let down, whoever is on the bill.



Don’t miss out on this exclusive event.

Follow Pyramid on Facebook | Instagram


CAMELPHAT | Pacha Ibiza | Tuesday, August 29

Liverpudlian DJ duo CAMELPHAT are back for week 15 of their 20-week summer residency on Tuesday, August 29, joined by WhoMadeWho, who will be delivering a hybrid set at Pacha on the night. 

Finishing up the lineup is Josh Gigante, who has collaborated with Camelphat on a 2-track EP this summer. 

The 50th-anniversary celebrations from Pacha are showing no signs of slowing down just yet, so extend your long weekend and get down to the party.



Purchase tickets and dance the night away.

Follow CAMELPHAT on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify


FISHER | Hï Ibiza | Wednesday, August 30

It might be unlucky for some, but not for chart-topping DJ and producer, FISHER, who is rolling into the 13th installment of his summer residency at Hï Ibiza on August 30. 

This summer has been an absolute scorcher for this popular mid-week rave, and this one will be no exception as FISHER will be joined by none other than Basement Jaxx and Ashibah in the Theatre. 

Little side note; there will be no set from Vintage Culture in the Club Room this week, instead you’ve got Loco Dice and HoneyLuv taking charge.



Get your tickets before they sell out.

Follow FISHER on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify


Music On Daytime | Destino Ibiza | Thursday, August 31

We end the week similarly as we started. With another Music On party, but this time it’s the Daytime edition at Destino. 

It’s the last in the series so expect this one to be packed!

Italian techno maestro Marco Carola will be joined by some very special guests who are yet to be announced, as we dance from day to night at the stunning Destino Pacha. 

The party kicks off at 5pm and runs through until midnight. The question is, will you choose to carry on the party afterward?



Experience the last Music On Daytime of the summer.

Follow Marco Carola on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify



And that's it! There's my round-up for this week. Which ones will you be heading to?

This Week In Ibiza (Aug 25 - Aug 31)

Boris Brejcha, renowned for his signature Venetian-joker mask and high-tech minimal genre, has an influential history shaping his music. With anticipation building for his 2024 album, Brejcha's single "Vienna ft. Malena Narvay" offers viewers a dynamic visual story.

The contrasting imagery of a lifeless robot (representing Boris) and a flourishing Malena symbolizes the nature of love and connection. “The robot, leading a mundane life, only blossoms with joy when wound up like a music box.”

The video's atmosphere shifts from melancholic Vienna streets to an energized vibrancy, highlighted by the symbolic red heart balloon, representing the essence of life and love. The red mask signals that we are all the same in the end. Boris opens up about his challenging past, notably the Ramstein air disaster, emphasizing how music became his healing refuge. His tracks encapsulate euphoria intermingled with poignant reflections.

Boris's trademark joker mask, initially an attempt to differentiate himself, has evolved into an emblematic representation of his atmospheric sound. His upcoming album teases a harmonious mix of traditional and innovative elements. Despite achieving overwhelming popularity, with his Tomorrowland performance garnering a record-breaking 95 million views, Brejcha remains humble, prioritizing genuine emotion in his music over technology's allure.

His long voyage, characterized by tenacity and genuineness, serves as inspiration to emerging artists. Beyond his music, Boris connects with fans through idiosyncratic events, like urban duck hunts, embodying his playful side. As he continues to redefine musical frontiers and consumes immense amounts of caffeine in the process, Boris underscores the importance of authenticity and zeal in the craft. His profound message to fellow artists and fans alike? Understand the music. Such a career does not happen overnight.

Can you tell us a little bit about your childhood and how it shaped your music career?

My childhood was good. Except for the accident with Ramstein. This accident was significant for the fact that I came to music at all. After this accident I had almost no friends. I withdrew more and more, until I finally ended up producing music. The music gave me strength and was something like my doctor. With it I could express myself and gradually felt alive again. At the end of the day, it was a positive turn.

How has the experience from the Ramstein air disaster influenced your perspective on life and music?

In terms of music, I would say that my music always sounds very deep. It often has melodies that sound sad and euphoric at the same time. Which is what I like very much. In terms of life, nothing can really shake me. After such an experience you become relatively hard.

So, I often can't understand when people get upset about things that are irrelevant in my eyes. Something bad must happen for me to become agitated. I have learned to appreciate life and enjoy the smallest things. For example, being the first one awake in the morning, sitting in the garden with a coffee and just enjoying the peace and quiet. That is life. Priceless.

Beyond its iconic look, what deeper meaning does your joker mask hold for you, especially when blending your life with art?

To be honest, nothing at all. Using the Joker mask was just a joke at the beginning of my career. I just wanted to stand out and stand out from everyone else. It also doesn't have anything to do with my accident in the slightest. But it has become my trademark over the years. I don't want to have to do without it anymore. Together with my music, it's a great atmosphere.

What inspired the title and theme of your upcoming album in 2024?

The title of my album is something like a new start for me. Or rather, I'm production-technically arrived at the point that satisfies me 100%. It will be an album, which shows all my facets. New ideas, but also up to the old classic Boris from way back. A mix of everything.

How does this new album differ from your previous work?

It makes it so different because it's a mix of old and new.

Can fans expect any surprise collaborations or features on the album?

There will be no big surprises. As usual and loved there will be songs together with Ginger. These songs are always great. Then there will be the extended version of "Vienna" and one more feature, which is still secret.

"Vienna ft. Malena Narvay" is set to release on August 18th. Why did you choose to release this song out of the rest to celebrate the announcement of the album?

It's a strong song and I like it very much. Moreover, it fits very well into the festival season now. Also, it's a little bit different way of my production style. Such new things always deserve to be heard.

The interaction between you and the girl seems to revolve around the concept of being "awakened" or "activated." What was the idea behind this dynamic?

We wanted to create a total contrast. Malena is a very bright person from the ground up. It was obvious that she should represent the flourishing life in this video. On the other side then the robot, which has rather a boring life. Only when he is wound up like a music box, then life and joy blossom in him.

Can you explain the significance of the empty car and the heart balloon tied to its mirror?

About the empty car there was never any meaning. We only took the car as a goodie. Because it fits super to the city of Vienna. The balloon, on the other hand, symbolizes love and the joy of life.

The mask worn by the girl in the later scenes adds a mysterious element. Why was it included, and what does it signify?

The red mask symbolizes that we are all the same in the end and that everyone can be sad, lazy or cheerful.

The interplay of colors, especially red, seems intentional. How does color symbolism play a role in conveying the video's emotions?

The color red is the main signal color. For this concept only red came into question. Red like love. Malena in red clothes as an ambassador of a flourishing life.

Your genre, "High-Tech-Minimal," is unique and has garnered you a lot of attention. What was the process behind its creation?

I don't know if that is still relevant today but in the past, fans often wanted to put an artist into a music genre or identify him with it. I could never put my music into a music genre. I thought I would just create my own. When I started producing music, "minimal", it was very popular. 

I also produced that back then. After a while it became too boring for me and since I used to produce a lot of trance music, I thought it would be cool to combine everything. The name "High-Tech Minimal" was born. The base of "minimal", with a lot of other elements so it's a further development.

You've achieved so much since your first performance in 2006. Looking back, which moment would you say was your turning point?

It was the moment when I played for Cercle for the first time in 2017. That's when I realized that the career is slowly growing. A year later came the recording of Tomorrowland and that was groundbreaking. It's currently the most watched Tomorrowland video by an artist, with 95 million views. Then in 2019 came the second Cercle set in Paris. Those were all milestones.

What is something you haven’t accomplished in your musical career, that you are looking to achieve in the future?

An official remix for Depeche Mode or Hans Zimmer would be unbeatable. Otherwise, I have currently achieved everything that makes me happy.

You often hide squeaky ducks in cities for fans. Which city's duck-hunt was the most memorable for you and why?

One thing in advance. This is really a lot of fun and the fans are so happy about it. That was in Argentina, and it was so wild that we had a chase across the city. We couldn't get rid of the fans and then we decided that the driver would let us off quickly on a busy street. We thought that the fan, who was traveling alone, would not just park his car in the middle of the street. However, that's exactly what he did and ran after us. That was so incredibly funny.

How do you see the future of electronic music evolving?

Good question. Currently I have the feeling that everything has slowed down a bit. By that I mean we currently have everything in sounds and music machines. There is just a little new stuff that is groundbreaking. But I don't think that's bad and I'm also confident, especially in terms of the new era of AI. Let's see where that will lead. I can imagine that an AI can accomplish a lot. But it will never be able to interpret real feelings.

In a world with rapid technological advancements, how do you incorporate new tech into your upcoming album?

You're asking the wrong guy haha. I am still very “oldskool”. Currently I have all the equipment I need to make good music. It's not the technology to produce good music. The best technology is your brain and your emotions. That's how you make successful and beautiful songs. I know some people who have such great new stuff but lack ideas.

From your fashion brand to your music, everything you do seems to have a personal touch. How important is authenticity to you in this digital age?

I think that's very important because fans like to identify with it, just like the Joker duck. For me personally, a milestone. That just came to me spontaneously which is so good.

Lastly, what advice would you give to young artists starting their journey in music?

That's always hard to say but people ask that all the time. Most of the time I tell them to learn an instrument. E.g., drums or keyboard, just to be able to understand the music better. Or to write beautiful melodies. You also need a lot of stamina. Such a career usually does not happen overnight. It takes a lot of time. As an example: I released my first single in 2006. But the real breakthrough didn't come until 2017. This is 11 years of processing the career. It’s also important to produce music that you love.

Decoding High-Tech Minimal: An Interview with Boris Brejcha

In the dynamic world of music, few artists encompass the range and depth of experience that Hannes Bieger brings to the table. From his early days playing guitar in bands to his profound love for the oceans and possible alternate life as a marine biologist, Hannes has journeyed through a kaleidoscope of musical and personal adventures. As he dives into his collaborations, studio work, and even the challenges of navigating creative roadblocks, this interview offers a unique window into the mind of an artist who seamlessly marries technical prowess with raw passion. In our exclusive Q&A, we delve deeper into the life and thoughts of Hannes, revealing facets that many might not know.

Have you ever found musical inspiration from something totally unexpected?

Inspiration is precious. Having worked as an artist for so long, I know that you can't just turn inspiration on like flicking a switch. Sometimes it's about whether inspiration chooses to find you. While you can foster inspiration, I believe it's valuable to seek it outside the studio and the immediate musical context. Electronic music nowadays can feel self-referential. Some labels, which used to showcase a broader range of music, now limit their selections to specific genres, leading to a streamlined feel.



While I'm not immune to this trend, I always aim for originality. For a period, I named my tracks after volcanic terms because of my fascination with our planet and nature. These metaphors inspired me. I'm drawn to nature, whether it's by, on, or in the water. Amidst the technical environments I frequent, like studios or venues, I treasure connecting with nature. It's a profound source of inspiration for me, whether it comes expectedly or unexpectedly.



How do you keep your technical side and creative side in harmony when making music?

The technical and creative aspects are two sides of the same coin. With my extensive experience as a producer and musician, both for myself and for clients, my primary goal is to make the technical side nearly invisible. I thrive when creation feels like a fluid, natural process, where I can immerse myself without overthinking.

There are sessions where I dive deep into creation and, hours later, resurface, realizing I neglected basic needs because I was so engrossed. During these moments, I'm not preoccupied with which EQ or synthesizer I'm using; I simply create. This effortless approach stems from experience and familiarity. However, technology can also inspire. A new synthesizer, for instance, can spark fresh musical ideas as I explore its capabilities. While I don't always aim to sideline technology, during the creative process, I think in musical terms, not technical ones.

Can you share a story of a challenging project that really pushed you to the limit?

There are two ways to answer this. Sometimes you have tracks where you fight to finish them. Most of the time, the fight isn't worth it. Usually, when something's good and you feel inspired, you can almost complete the track in a day, and everything flows naturally.



One good decision led to the next. But the tracks where you struggle often have a problem that can't be solved by struggling more. However, there are also tracks where you know you have a great idea, and it could be fantastic, but only if you don't mess it up in the process. This can be a challenge, especially when you've found a diamond in the rough and aim to refine it without damaging its essence.

Have the places you have played at influenced your sound in any way?

In the places I've played, the environment certainly influences me. It might not be the venues or shows directly, but my love for nature and the planet plays a part. I've always been interested in technology, geography, wildlife, and more. One of my first releases when I resumed music-making in 2017 was on Audiofly's label.

The track La Selva was part of a project where each invited artist was to create a track inspired by a country. I was in Colombia on the Caribbean Coast when they reached out. Given my location, I chose Colombia as my inspiration. Sitting in the jungle, I made recordings of the local wildlife — frogs, birds, crickets, and other night creatures. But instead of using these raw sounds, I wanted to recreate them. I sometimes find direct use of natural atmospheres in tracks a bit clichéd.

So, back in the studio, I recreated these animal sounds. Recapturing the immersive soundscape of countless frogs in the jungle was particularly fun, using a modular system and ample reverb. Experiences like being in the Egyptian desert or flying over the Andes at sunrise leave lasting impressions. They inevitably find their way into my music in some form.

How do you keep up the enthusiasm and creativity in the face of the music industry pressures?

This is a relevant question, given the intense pressures of the industry. Sleep deprivation can be overwhelming, and there's always an underlying competition — who has more shows, who gets better slots at festivals, whose name is bigger on posters. Such comparisons can be soul-crushing if you lose focus. Some days, everything seems to go wrong: organizational chaos, blackouts, delays in set times, and more. In these moments, you may just want to quit.



But then you step on stage, play that first note, and suddenly, all worries dissipate. The energy from the crowd reminds you of the reason you're in this. It's a roller coaster, but the key is to not take yourself too seriously and to remember why you started. For me, it's the joy of making music. If it ever stops being fun, I might reconsider. But as of now, I've been quite productive and thoroughly enjoy making music. That passion largely drives me forward.

Have you had a track that didn’t get the attention you thought it would? What did you learn from that?

Yes, this can happen. Sometimes it's hard to identify the exact problem. It could be that you have different tastes than the general style out there at any given moment. To me, there's no guarantee. I see it the other way around: when something goes especially well, it's a gift. You can't plan for it unless you invest a lot of money and maybe play a bit dirty. But if you do it organically, you can't plan it.

Sometimes the stars align, sometimes they don't. Once you've experienced the feeling of having a number one, you want to repeat it. But it doesn't work that way; you can't decide today that you're going to make another number one and expect it to happen. Maybe the less you push yourself and the less you plan for it, the more likely it is to happen.

How do you like to work with other artists - face to face or remotely?

I come from a band background. My first instrument was the guitar, and I began playing in bands when I was around 12 or 13 years old. For me, making music is deeply intertwined with being in a room with others, discussing life, the world, or even just having dinner. I cherish collaborations that involve spending time together. However, I recognize there are limitations to this approach, and a lot of collaboration happens remotely.

This method can be more focused at times, and I'm open to both, but I prefer meeting other artists in person. To add, I run my studio business, and the preference remains the same. Before COVID, more clients would attend sessions in person, but during and post-COVID, remote collaborations became more common. Still, if a client wishes to visit, I'm always happy to welcome them to the studio.

As an analog lover, what’s your take on AI-generated music?

Yes, I'm an analog lover. Honestly, I haven't been deliberately exposed to A.I. generated music. I've played with image generators, which I found fascinating. However, when it comes to A.I. generated music, I lack experience. We're at the beginning of this journey, and soon it'll be a reality we can't ignore. The music industry will inevitably have to adapt, and I'm certain it will bring significant change.

What’s the best piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in electronic music?

To quote Rick Rubin, though I'll paraphrase his recent Instagram post, it's vital to create music for an audience of one: yourself. When you make music for labels, audiences, or another DJ, it risks not coming from your heart. Instead, it might seem like a tool crafted to achieve a specific goal. It's best to focus on what you genuinely want to express musically. By immersing in your unique sound and believing in it, you'll naturally reach and resonate with others. Don't get caught up in comparisons, especially at the start. It's crucial to give yourself time to develop.



Today, it's easy to produce something and share it instantly. But remember, you only get one chance to make a first impression. It's not about remaining secluded in your studio, but about recognizing the right moment to share. George Orwell, and I'm paraphrasing again, once said that the absence of limitations can hinder art. It's important to face challenges and boundaries; they help you grow as a musician. Nowadays, everyone can have a recording studio on their laptop, removing technological limits. Sometimes, imposing certain restrictions on yourself can guide your creativity, leading to a more meaningful output.

Have you ever had a powerful or memorable experience during a live performance?

There are countless memorable experiences, too many to mention specifically. While not every night is one for the books, when it is, it's profoundly beautiful. Having so many people in one room, sharing the same energy through music, is one of the primary reasons I do what I do.

If you could create music with any artist, who would you choose and why?

I've been fortunate to work with many of the artists I admired when I started out. One notable collaboration was with Ursula Rucker on "Poem for the Planet." I've dreamt of working with her since hearing her voice in the mid-90s.

Another artist I deeply admire and would love to collaborate with is Róisín Murphy, the former Moloko singer. I've always respected Moloko as a band and particularly her voice, attitude, and overall presence. I'd be thrilled to create a track or write a song with her.

When you hit a creative roadblock, how do you get over it?

Creative roadblocks are tough. I've taught many workshops and masterclasses about this topic, and I could probably talk about it all day. To keep it brief, it's crucial to know when to push through and when it's better to just step back. Sometimes, it's more beneficial to do something else and avoid further frustration. At other times, you can find ways around the roadblock.

For instance, you could organize your sample libraries or look for new sounds. As you go through your samples, you might stumble upon one that sparks inspiration. Before you know it, you might be building a track. Or, by focusing on sound design for individual elements, you could suddenly have a collection of sounds that come together to create a vibe. Add a bass drum, and you're off to the races. However, if you feel it's not working, it's best not to push too hard.

Lastly, a fun one - if you weren’t a musician, what other job would you want to do?

I've held a variety of roles throughout my career. I've written for music production magazines as a technical editor and worked as a photographer for many years. Both professions are areas I could easily pursue further. However, if I were to think outside of these experiences, I've always been fascinated by the idea of becoming a marine biologist. My interest in water, oceans, and wildlife draws me to it.

I understand that much of the job involves observing vast bodies of water, waiting for specific wildlife that may never appear. Interestingly, as a touring musician, I often find myself waiting around for extended periods, so the waiting aspect wouldn't be new to me. Ultimately, a profession connected to nature, travel, and wildlife, whether as a marine biologist or perhaps even a volcanologist, would be compelling to me.

Strings to Synths: A Candid Interview with Hannes Bieger

How are we over halfway through August already?

You might not want to believe it, but it’s true! Ibiza is absolutely buzzing and all of the summer residencies are in full swing.

That means that it’s even harder to choose what parties to focus on in this week’s round-up, but not to worry, we’ve sifted through the massive list and whittled it down to our top picks for the next 7 days.

Let’s dive right in.


Joseph Capriati presents Metamorfosi Closing Party | Amnesia Ibiza | Friday, August 18





Get ready for an unforgettable night as Joseph Capriati presents Metamorfosi reaches its sensational climax at Amnesia Ibiza. 

The Terrace will be pumping with a dynamic back-to-back-to-back set by Joseph Capriati, Seth Troxler, and ANOTR, who will all be supported by Francesco Squillante. 

Meanwhile, the Main Room will be hosted by Reinier Zonneveld (live), complemented by Enrico Sangiuliano, Sasha Carassi, and Ivan Masa, weaving a multi-genre musical tapestry. With Amnesia's state-of-the-art production elevating the experience, this night promises to be one of the books.

Get your tickets for this closing party.

Follow Joseph Capriati on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

ANTS | Ushuaïa Ibiza | Saturday, August 19



Join the swarm at Ushuaïa Ibiza for an unforgettable ANTS experience. 

This iconic 10th season celebration will feature a powerhouse lineup including long-time residents Andrea Oliva and Nic Fanciulli, as well as Vintage Culture, Wade, The Menendez Brothers, Raul Rodriguez, and a dynamic B2B set with Francisco Allendes and Manuelito Hell Raton. 

From 3pm until 11pm, immerse yourself in house and tech house anthems from day to night. Get ready to be captivated by mind-blowing visuals, the immersive set design, and a genuine Ibiza atmosphere that’s popular with workers and tourists alike.

Get your ticket for this Saturday night rave.

Follow Andrea Oliva on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Franky Wah presents SHÈN Ibiza | Club Chinois Ibiza | Sunday, August 20



Emerging as a prolific force in the DJ and production scene, Franky Wah is bringing his signature blend of emotion, dancefloor energy, and captivating hooks to the forefront this Sunday. 

Having taken the music scene by storm, he has now taken over the decks in 2023 for his residency at Club Chinois, transforming it into a mystical temple adorned with terracotta warriors. 

Joining him on this journey on August 20 are fellow talents James Organ, Massano, and Out of Mind. 

This party transcends music, embodying Franky's artistic vision that combines his Chinese heritage and ethos into a powerful experience. From 11:45pm till dawn, you can enjoy the enchanting ambiance of Club Chinois, where music and energy merge seamlessly.

Get your tickets now and end your week right.

Follow Franky Wah on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Funky Aura Ibiza | Akasha Ibiza | Monday, August 21





Get ready to relive the magic of Ibiza's past as Funky Aura Ibiza takes over Akasha this Monday. Rekindling the essence of the once-hidden gem, Aura, this party celebrates the island's authentic and creative spirit that's often overshadowed by commercialization. 

With Hayden Trethewey, Sunny Ramzan, and Vaughan at the helm, Funky Aura Ibiza breathes new life into the scene, offering an experience that resonates with the unusual, beautiful, and vibrant personalities that define Ibiza's soul. 

Formerly a celebrity hotspot, the original Aura club attracted the likes of James Blunt, Cara Delevingne, and Charlotte Tilbury, and now, after a decade of closure, it finds a fresh home at Akasha. Joining the journey this week are Johnny La Plage, Dylan Debut, Schelcher, and 3Mind, ensuring an unforgettable night that rekindles the island's true essence.

Get your tickets to this Monday night party.

Follow Funky Aura on Facebook | Instagram

The Martinez Brothers | Hï Ibiza | Tuesday, Aug 22

Prepare for an unforgettable night of music and energy as The Martinez Brothers take over Hï Ibiza once again on Tuesday, August 22. 

These influential DJs, producers, and style icons hailing from The Bronx have been smashing their second-season residency at the number one club in the world. With their signature New York-influenced sound, The Martinez Brothers, along with Carlita B2B Chloé Caillet, will keep the Theatre buzzing all night long. 

The Main Room will be under the spell of Spanish techno stalwart Paco Osuna, delivering his trademark tech house beats alongside Solardo and Tomi & Kesh.

Get your tickets to this sell-out event.

Follow The Martinez Brothers on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

El Cielo | Diynamic Outdoor | 528 Ibiza | Wednesday, Aug 23





Rooted in the underground electronic music scene, Diynamic Music has risen to global acclaim since its founding in 2006 by Solomun and Adriano Trolio in Hamburg. 

Now, the label's iconic summer open-air concept graces the grounds of 528 Ibiza, offering an unforgettable outdoor experience. 

Solomun, label co-founder and a true crowd-puller, will take the helm for this special event, so we know it’s going to be a busy one! Known for its legendary showcases and residencies worldwide, Diynamic's presence in Ibiza ranges from Neon Nights at Sankeys to its showcases at DC-10. 

As the sun sets over the Benimussa hills, immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of 528 Ibiza, where nature and positive energy converge to create a unique experience.

Discover 528 - buy your ticket now.

Follow Solomun on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Music On Daytime | Destino Ibiza | Thursday, Aug 24





This open-air extravaganza seamlessly blends the finest dark techno and underground house tracks under the blaze of the Balearic sun. 

Destino Ibiza is known for its exclusive and carefully curated events and provides the perfect setting to experience the magic of Music On. From 5pm until midnight, you can dance to the tunes and style that have made Marco Carola a global sensation, supported by fellow world-class artists (still to be announced). 

As the sun sets, the energy seamlessly transitions from a daytime party to a nighttime rave, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. With a reputation for delivering exceptional performances, Marco Carola's dynamic mixing skills will keep you on your toes, accompanied by fist-pumping drops that send the crowd into a frenzy. His influence in the techno realm is unrivaled, and his dedication to high-quality music is palpable, making this event at Destino Ibiza an unmissable experience.

Don’t miss out - get your tickets.

Follow Marco Carola on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

This Week In Ibiza (Aug 18 - Aug 24)

It is a good week to be in Ibiza.

Not only is the weather glorious, but the club calendar is at its peak, and the island is packed with excited party-goers ready to fill the dance floors of the multitude of incredible super clubs dotted around the White Isle.

I’ve put together a list of our top picks for the week. I hope you’re ready to party!

El Cielo Camelphat | 528 Ibiza | Friday, August 11



This groundbreaking collaboration between Pacha and 528 Ibiza promises an ethereal clubbing experience, where on Friday, August 11th, from 6pm to midnight, Camelphat will lead the charge with their signature blend of progressive house and melodic techno. 

The Liverpudlian dup will be joined by Patrice Bäumel and Brina Knauss, as the day turns to night over the Benimussa hills. If you haven’t experienced 528 Ibiza in 2023, make sure you don’t miss out on this one. Unforgettable energy in a one-of-a-kind location. It’s a no-brainer.

Get your tickets before they sell out.

Follow Camelphat on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Elrow Horroween | Amnesia Ibiza | Saturday, August 12



Enter the realm of spine-tingling revelry as elrow Horroween descends upon Amnesia Ibiza. Step into the eerie tale of the Roween mansion, but remember, once you cross the threshold, there's no escape - only endless panic-infused partying. 

From the chilling tunnel of terror to the haunted graveyard, every corner of Amnesia’s terrace will be filled with nightmarish energy, hosting party zombies, bloodthirsty vampires, and macabre characters. 

elrow's audacious and wildly creative production will transform your night into a realm of exaggerated theatrics, fantastical costumes, and electrifying tech-house sounds. Get ready for a night of pure, uncaged, and otherworldly revelry that will leave you both thrilled and spellbound.

Get your ticket for a party you need to see to believe.

Follow elrow on Facebook | Instagram

Glitterbox | Hï Ibiza | Sunday, August 13



Get ready for an end-of-week extravaganza that encapsulates the vibrant spirit of disco as Glitterbox returns on Sunday at Hï Ibiza, headlined by Basement Jaxx, Eats Everything, and Melvo Baptiste. 

Embodying the essence of carefree celebration, Glitterbox has transformed into a worldwide nightlife phenomenon in under a decade. 

What’s not to love about its star-studded line-ups, mesmerizing disco diva performances, and an abundance of sequins and spangles? 

Regardless of identity or affiliation, everyone's welcome on this dance floor where prejudice and ego are left behind. The musical DNA of Glitterbox is a truly harmonious blend of re-imagined house, disco, and soul. It’s the perfect end to a weekend on the White Isle.

Get your tickets to Sunday’s spectacle.

Follow Basement Jaxx on Spotify | Instagram | Facebook

Eric Prydz presents HOLO | Hī Ibiza | Monday, August 14



Pryda label-head Eric Prydz has been making some serious waves in Ibiza the summer, lighting up Monday nights on the White Isle. Returning with a bang after his last residency in 2017, Prydz has been filling dance floors with party-goers all there for one this, his intimate HOLO show, tailor-made for the Theatre room at Hï Ibiza. 

HOLO's visionary production, coupled with Prydz's iconic DJ prowess, has created a groundbreaking experience that words can't do justice. With a lineup boasting techno luminary Adam Beyer and protege Cristoph in the Theatre, and the infectious energy of Patrick Topping in the Club Room, Mondays at Hï Ibiza are most definitely the new Fridays.

Experience this audio-visual marvel.

Follow Eric Prydz on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

Do Not Sleep | Cova Santa Ibiza | Tuesday, Aug 15



Do Not Sleep and Richy Ahmed's Four Thirty Two label team up for an electrifying event at Cova Santa Ibiza on August 15. The San Jose hills will come alive with tech house and underground vibes from 7pm until 5am. 

Outdoors we have Marco Faraone, Mar-T B2B Luca Donzelli, and Félix, while the ancient cave of Cova Santa will transform into a dance haven with Richy Ahmed and Fleur Shore taking the reins, along with a yet-to-be-announced special guest. 

Whether you're dancing under the Balearic stars or inside the enchanting club, the night promises to be unforgettable.

Buy your ticket and don’t miss out.

Follow Do Not Sleep on Facebook | Instagram

Bedouin present Saga | Pacha Ibiza | Wednesday, Aug 16



Prepare to embark on a mystic musical journey as Bedouin presents Saga at Pacha Ibiza. With an aura of enchantment and surrealism, Saga stands as one of the island's most enigmatic residencies on the island. 

Bedouin's innovative concept has garnered a devoted following since its inception in 2017. Immerse yourself in a Middle Eastern-inspired ambiance adorned with drapes, incense, evocative dancers, and ethno-vocals under dimmed lights, creating a unique experience like no other. 

Returning for its second chapter in 2023 after a triumphant debut at Pacha last summer, Bedouin expands their vision of weaving sonic tales with bewitching deep, desert, and shamanic house beats and on August 16 they’ll be joined by Jan Blomqvist (live) and Arodes.

Buy your ticket.

Follow Bedouin on Spotify | Facebook | Instagram

Solomun | Destino Ibiza | Thursday, Aug 17



This party brings together the masterful Bosnian DJ and the exclusive ambiance of Destino Ibiza for the third edition of this year's residency. 

Set against the stunning backdrop of Cap Martinet's cliffs, Destino offers not only mesmerizing views but also a top-notch sound system that will resonate with the pulse of Solomun's deep house sounds. 

As a four-time DJ Award winner, Solomun's electrifying presence guarantees an enchanting musical journey from 5pm to midnight. Joining him on August 17 is the talented Damiano von Erckert, promising a night filled with high-quality electronic and underground sounds, a jam-packed dance floor, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Don’t miss out - get your tickets.

Follow Solomun on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

This Week In Ibiza (Aug 11 - Aug 17)

“What's the tech house on right now?” wonders Martin Ikin upon entering the green room at Reach Entertainment’s '90s rave revival event. He’s basking in the glow of his recent performance at EDC, just as San Pacho is, from his set the previous night. Both, among Europe’s leading tech house artists, chat with Gray Area about tech house's direction, with special attention to its trending subgenre: Latin tech house.

“I'm intrigued by Martin's perspective; he's a trailblazer,” remarks San Pacho post his set and while Ikin finishes his.

San Pacho, a rising talent in Latin tech house, acknowledges Ikin’s pioneering role: “He constructed this scene. So, his views might be weightier than mine. But as a newcomer, I can provide a fresh perspective.”

TECH HOUSE SOUNDS

“Latin tech house revolves around vibrant percussion and sultry vocals,” says San Pacho. “My current focus is collaborating exclusively with Latino artists for Latin tech house tracks.”

Ikin observes the dynamic nature of global tech house. “The scene is always evolving. You subtly adjust as trends emerge.” Rooted in fundamental sonic elements, he adds, “Solid beats form the base. And right now, the 808 bass vibe seems predominant. I'm also into integrating synths and captivating vocals.”



As a seasoned jazz pianist, Ikin infuses his tech house tracks with rich textures. “I invest in synthesizers, and I'm drawn to innovative synth use.” He gives a sneak peek into his latest collaboration with Noisia, which showcases unique synth work. “We premiered it at EDC. It's titled ‘Burning’ and uses a sound I created on an ARP 2600 clone.”

San Pacho, in contrast, relies on crowdsourcing. “I tweeted an open call to Latino artists. The outcome was some incredible tracks, like 'A Dalè' which I played at EDC.”

The dialogue with both artists highlights that tech house is morphing, fueled by innovative collaborations and experimentation, challenging previous boundaries.

GLOBAL SOUNDS

“There used to be distinct regional tech house sounds,” notes Ikin. “But now, these differences are fading. The genres are blending more.”

While San Pacho sees Latin tech house booming in the Americas, he feels Europe leans more towards traditional house. He observes a bpm shift in Latin tech house. “It was 126 for a while. Now, it's edging faster. Odd Mob, for instance, does fantastic faster-paced house.”

San Pacho contemplates this shift. “I'm mulling over experimenting in that direction.”

Such explorations, combined with collaborations among producers, indicate a robust future for tech house in an increasingly interconnected world.

DIFFERENT VEINS

A week later, Gray Area converses with Kaysin from Repopulate Mars.

“Tech house has diverged into multiple styles,” Kaysin points out. “We see minimalistic sounds from Cloonee, and the bold beats of Fisher and Chris Lake. With such diversity, tech house remains intriguing and open for further exploration.”

He mentions several emerging artists, including Local Singles and Truth x Lies, praising the current dynamism. “There's talk of the 'bubble bursting' for some genres,” he says. “But with tech house's many offshoots, it’s always evolving.”

For Kaysin, tech house's global resonance and the influx of novel sounds within the subgenre indicate a renaissance.

Reflecting on contemporary global tech house, Kaysin concludes with a beaming smile, “It’s profoundly special.”

Martin Ikin, San Pacho, and Kaysin on the State of Global Tech House

Get ready to turn up the heat!

Ibiza’s dance floors are on fire right now, with dream lineups popping up left, right, and center. I’m here with another round-up of incredible events over the next 7 days on the White Isle.

Don’t miss out, make sure to get your tickets ASAP.

Defected | Eden Ibiza | Friday, August 4

Popular with workers and tourists alike, Defected at Eden Ibiza is back again this Friday with a stellar lineup ready to get you moving. LP Giobbi, Harry Romero, Melé, SG Lewis, and The Murphy Brothers will be bringing the house tunes all night long at the island's most pocket-friendly, inclusive, accessible party.

Defected is renowned for its ethos: 'In our house, we are all equal.' And that sentiment permeates every inch of the dance floor. It's not just about having a good time, it's about coming together, being part of the Defected family, and losing yourself in the unifying power of house music.

Get your tickets for this incredible party.



Follow Defected on Facebook | Instagram

ANTS | Ushuaïa Ibiza | Saturday, August 5

ANTS, now in its 10th season, has become a remarkable part of the Ibiza party scene with its mix of house and tech house anthems at Playa d’en Bossa’s ultimate outdoor venue, Ushuaïa Ibiza. Its popularity has not stopped growing since its conception in 2013, proving popular with workers, locals, and holidaymakers.

This installment will see a B2B showcase from ANTS alumni Andrea Oliva and Ilario Alicante, following sets from Cloonee, Vintage Culture, Mason Collective, Miane, and Raul Rodriguez. Make sure that you’re part of the ANTS colony.

Get your ticket for this day-to-night party.



Follow ANTS on Facebook | Instagram

Pyramid | Amnesia Ibiza | Sunday, August 6

This is one for the techno-heads. Amnesia’s home-grown party Pyramid is dedicating the Terrace to ‘Solo Techno’ to close off the week in style. If you’re a fan of live sets, you won’t want to miss out on KiNK’s only Ibiza appearance this summer. And if that wasn’t enough, techno queen Charlotte de Witte will be also bringing the beats. This party is going to be one for the books!

Since its inception in 2018, Pyramid has become a staple in Ibiza's clubbing scene, offering immersive experiences through state-of-the-art technology, lighting, and unique decor. 2023’s events come with a clear motto: appreciate the past, live the present, and dance into the future.

Get your tickets to Sunday’s showstopper.



Follow Charlotte de Witte on Spotify | Instagram | Facebook

Circoloco | DC-10 Ibiza | Monday, August 7

A Monday ritual like no other. Circoloco returns to DC-10 Ibiza for week 15 of 24 on August 7, with another mind-blowing lineup of underground, house, and techno DJs ready to take you on a sonic journey like no other. 12 hours of no-frills music. Just the way we like it.

Now in its 24th season, Circoloco shows no signs of slowing down. If anything, they are gearing up for more incredible parties and more unforgettable nights at the iconic DC-10. This underground event has a deep-rooted history on the White Isle, initially a Monday morning ‘afters’ session kicking off at 6am. Nowadays, even though the times have shifted, the ethos and mentality stay the same, drawing in party-goers from around the globe every single Monday night throughout the summer.

Get your tickets before they sell out.



Follow Circoloco on Facebook | Instagram

The Martinez Brothers | Hï Ibiza | Tuesday, Aug 8

Renowned American house duo, The Martinez Brothers, are absolutely smashing their second season residency at Hï Ibiza, alongside veteran techno DJ, Paco Osuna, who has been hosting the Main Room throughout the summer. Known for their New York-influenced sound and infectious energy, the Martinez Brothers have been filling the dance floor all summer, and this one is due to be no exception, as they are joined by Apollonia.

The world’s number one club is known for uniting crowds through quality music and positive energy, is once again the chosen venue for this dynamic duo's summer residency, which also includes the fun-filled Wild Corner (if you know, you know!).

Buy your ticket and don’t miss out.



Follow The Martinez Brothers on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

The Ritual with Anané & Louie Vega | Club Chinois Ibiza | Wednesday, Aug 9

The Ritual is an electrifying residency spearheaded by the esteemed electronic music duo, Anané and Louie Vega. Renowned for their eclectic blend of house, disco, garage, soul, and Afro-Latin beats, the duo aims to provide an immersive and uplifting experience, combining music, culture, and spirituality - this week joined by house music legend Todd Terry and Tony Touch.

Club Chinois, known for its cutting-edge design, state-of-the-art sound system, and captivating visuals, is the ideal venue for this intimate and transformative celebration of life, love, and music. Will we see you there?

Buy your ticket and discover Club Chinois.



Follow Louie Vega on Spotify | Facebook | Instagram

Sven Väth presents Catharsis | Akasha Ibiza | Thursday, Aug 10

Legendary German DJ, Sven Väth, returns to Akasha Ibiza for the 3rd installment of his celebrated event, Catharsis. A titan in the techno world, Väth's immersive sets are famed for their diversity, traversing genres from minimal to techno, electro to ambient, providing a sonic snapshot of his four-decade-long career.

This year, embracing a 'less is more' approach, each of Väth's carefully chosen performances on the island promises to offer a unique fusion of sound and energy. The evening starts in the garden of Las Dalias from 7pm until midnight, before moving indoors to Akasha, where the three-time DJ Awards winner will continue spinning tracks until the early hours. Be sure to secure your tickets quickly for this sure-to-sell-out event, and prepare to lose yourself to the captivating beats of 'Papa' Sven.

Don’t miss out - get your tickets.



Follow Sven Väth on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

This Week In Ibiza (Aug 4 - Aug 10)

Orange County-based electronic music producer Dillon Nathaniel’s productions tend to set cross-genre trends — not only in his home state of California, but also across the broader North American electronic music landscape. That’s been true ever since he started professionally releasing his music shortly after graduating from preeminent electronic music production institution Icon Collective in the mid-2010s (alongside classmate Jauz).


It went like this: after his initial electro-focused releases on outlets such as EDM.com, Nathaniel connected with AC Slater, who eventually signed one of Nathaniel’s tracks to a Night Bass compilation. “That’s when I dove into bass house for the first time and transitioned from electro to bass house,” Nathaniel tells Gray Area. From there, prominent co-signs by Malaa and Tchami proved to be early landmarks in the rising producer’s career.







“One of the first real tech house sets that I played was EDC 2019, at the Black Book stage for Chris Lake,” he articulates while explaining the course of his musical evolution. “That was a combination of my bass house with new tech house energy in my music. Then just unloading at the end with straight techno. I never really heard somebody blend all those three sounds together.”



Despite his plethora of bonafides as an influential producer and tastemaker in the wider North American dance music scene, Nathaniel readily admits that his current personal fashion aesthetic is heavily influenced by someone other than himself.



“Honestly, I owe a lot of my newer sense of fashion to my wife,” Nathaniel concedes.



That’s a slightly surprising admission from such an established artist and producer like Nathaniel. He’s someone who might be expected to curate their outfits as an essential component of a carefully crafted individual artistic identity.



But Nathaniel and his wife Yelah's (legal name: Hailey Marie Escobar) relationship is more than simply spousal. They’re also co-founders and operators of the boutique electronic music clothing brand Warehouse Project. “[Yelah’s] definitely the creative side of [Warehouse Movement],” Nathaniel informs Gray Area. “She’s the person that really makes it all happen and puts it all together. She puts in the blood, sweat, and tears.”



In this way, while Nathaniel focuses on sonically sculpting his developing brand of contemporary west coast US tech house, Yelah physically fabricates with up cycled textiles to create her one-of-one pieces that are primarily made for electronic musicians to wear onstage. In separate phone conversations with Gray Area, both Nathaniel and Yelah refer to Warehouse Movement’s stylistic label interchangeably as “stage wear” and “artist ware”.



So far, the artists who’ve worn Warehouse Movement’s one-of-one pieces onstage seem to be enthralled by the brand’s wild, forward-thinking juxtapositions of endlessly recognizable cross-genre conventions and concepts.



“A lot of the artists within the scene are doing the same thing right now — the bright colored button-ups and stuff, sunglasses, and cool-guy hat,” Yelah opines. “I want to bring some originality, some forward-thinking fashion, and eco-conscious fashion to the scene.”



“Rave meets punk, and metal meets streetwear,” Nathaniel says about his conception of the brand’s core aesthetic. “Upcycled vintage style but using modern rave graphics with that edginess of streetwear with punk and metal.”



“A perfect blend between street, club, and high fashion,” says Yelah.



“Every single person's individual, every single person has specific tastes and style,” she says. “Why not represent that in the clothing that you wear?”

ONE-OF-ONE

Each Warehouse Movement piece is conceptually and physically fabricated by Yelah; Nathaniel contributes ideas along the way.



Accordingly, every piece that Warehouse Movement releases “is one-of-one. Once it’s made it will never get made again,” Yelah explains about Warehouse Movement’s main brand tenets that allow the brand to create uniquely recognizable works. “When you put on our piece, it makes you feel a certain way — like, ‘Oh, shit, this is me!’



“When people step onstage, they're coming into their persona — who they are onstage,” she notes. “That’s why a lot of our brand is centered around artist ware. It makes you feel like that person.”



While focusing on that aesthetic as a designer and stylist, Yelah’s ongoing relationships with prominent artists speak volumes about her artistic sensibilities and skills. She lists Speaker Honey, Fiction, and Nathaniel as some of the close collaborators whom she styles with Warehouse Movement’s limited edition threads.

“Those are some of my best friends,” she tells Gray Area. “Those are the people who believed in me from the moment I started making my stuff to now, and I support my people no matter what. It’s just like a family.”



Consider Speaker Honey, a standout crossover electronic music producer who’s making waves in cultural circles beyond dance music. For example: Although she hasn’t yet graced a runway during fashion week in Milan, New York, or Paris, the Deadmau5 protégé does enjoy a highly visible brand partnership with Italian luxury fashion giant Armani. Yelah’s largely responsible for Speaker Honey’s hair and other personal styling. Outside of artists, the brand is available to anyone who wants a similarly individualized fashion experience.





In this way, Warehouse Movement’s choice to cater to individual artists and attendees alike is a step towards eliminating the massive cultural stratification between onstage artists and GA attendees. “It’s very counterintuitive that these one-of-one pieces are going to break down barriers between artists and the crowd,” admits Nathaniel. “But it does create that feeling of we're all part of one community, and we can all be expressive in our ways.”



This might be the most significant cultural impact of the Warehouse Movement: through juxtaposing various styles in their one-of-one productions, the brand directly challenges entrenched notions of what an artist or attendee under the gaze of popular electronic music culture should or can wear.



“Everyone's doing mass production, low-quality t-shirts and slapping their logo on it,” Nathaniel observes. “I want people to wear our brand when it has nothing to do with [promoting] our brand. I want it to be universal in that sort of sense.”

I CAN MAKE THAT

“I started Warehouse Movement with Dylan about five years ago [when] we had just started dating,” Yelah remembers. “I was looking for clothes for EDC and Coachella.”



“We were going out to shows all the time and she noticed that I drop money on jackets — that’s my vice. It doesn't matter if it's summertime or wintertime. I have this obsession with jackets,” Nathaniel says. “Sickass, one-of-one type pieces that nobody else has. “When we found out we got booked for Coachella in 2019, she surprised me and started working on this piece.”

“We were at my parent's house, and he showed me all these jackets — thousands of dollars, super expensive designer stuff,” Yelah recalls. “I looked at him and said, ‘I can make that for you.’



“She took one of my denim jackets and cut up one of our warehouse movement shirts. At the time, I didn't know what Warehouse Movement was going to be. When she made me that jacket, she cut up the warehouse movement shirt with the logo and pinned it on with safety pins. Then she cut up a different graphic of this other shirt that I thrifted with this crazy smiley face and pinned it on with giant metal school safety pins.





“Growing up, I got into the heavy metal scene for my dad. And in the scene, we make battle jackets. So, you put all your favorite bands on your jacket, wherever your show and you collect stuff at shows. That's where I got inspiration from,” says Yelah.



“That was the first original jacket that we ever made,” Nathaniel warmly recalls.



“Warehouse Movement combines the rock and metal scene I was born and raised on, and the house and techno that Dillon was born and raised on,” Yelah says about the brand’s main musical influences. “I am a huge fan of Marilyn Manson, Slipknot, System of a Down, Beartooth — there’s a lot. I could go on and on.” For her, Warehouse Project’s ideal aesthetic is “a perfect blend of rock and metal with house and techno.”







Wearing that jacket, Nathaniel “went to Coachella even though it was 110 degrees outside.” “I was sweating bullets. My manager was making fun of me. But right when I walked into the festival, someone came up to me and was like, ‘Yo, where'd you get that jacket?’ And we were like, ‘Oh, she made this!’.



“People were like: ‘How much is it to buy off your back right now?’ Yelah remembers. “And he's like, ‘No, my girlfriend made this for me!’



“That’s how I knew we had something special”, Nathaniel remarks, his voice tinged with a spark of retrospective wonderment.

DEDICATED TO THE LIFESTYLE



“Warehouse Movement is dedicated to the revival of the underground house scene,” Yelah confidently responds when queried by Gray Area about the brand’s thesis. “House music has become this genre flooded by all these younger people in the crowd who are focused on the party atmosphere. And that’s great. There's nothing wrong with that.”



“But house music has such a deep and beautiful history. We’re just trying to bring it back to that. Bring it back to the music — to the people who created it,” she says.



For Nathaniel, Warehouse Movement is also an important vehicle for “paying homage to the genres that you listen to, vintage things you like.”



“This community of people is so much more than the clothes,” he persuasively asserts. “It’s more about warehouse lifestyle.”



“I want to give back to the community and shine that light on everybody that I can. There's a lot of dark things about the industry that people don't talk about,” Nathaniel reminds Gray Area while discussing his ongoing artistic motivations. 



“What I see with my music and our brand as a clothing company in the future is to shed lighter insight about doing more positive things in the community.”



“All I want is to make people feel beautiful, happy, and confident,” Yelah says. “That's my drive. That's why I was put on this earth. And that's all I want for people.”



“It’s about bringing people together in the best or worst of times,” Nathaniel concludes. “Taking that moment to not escape reality but embrace reality.





It's kind of like in that old raver’s sort of mentality of P.L.U.R but trying to reinvent that. “How can we bring the community of people together while also doing it for a good cause?”

While also preserving the traditions of the past? 



Just to focus on the fact that everybody that listens to this music, we're all one big community, one big family and we have each other's back.”



Nathaniel says “We all really go through some dark times in our lives. Electronic music has saved me from depression, suicidal thoughts, and feeling neglected. So being involved in a community like ours is all about acceptance and love.





“COVID Everyone lost their job; our industry is at an all-time low. Touring completely stopped. So, we were thinking, hey, like, how are we going to make money here? So that's really, really where warehouse movement came into life.



"And, you know, we started going, hitting up every thrift store, we can, buying as much recycled clothes as we can like graphics online and everything and just kind of invested the money into sourcing thrift reusable items, and tried to make it into, you know, new pieces and sell them online.



“So, you know, during COVID, we were posting like a jacket a week, and my wife got really into hand sewing. So, she started sewing the graphics instead of pinning them. And, you know, it just literally just progressed until what it is today, which is, you know, now she has a full Office in our house with a sewing machine with, you know, like a whole rack of her items.”



“I do a lot of thrifting. So, I'll take thrifted jackets, and I will have artists give me pieces of clothing that they already own. And what I'll do with some of their jackets is they'll give me a jacket they love. They'll give me some T-shirts that they've worn to festivals or T-shirts they bought some places that they love, and care about. And I'll put them all together into one piece so it's uniquely them.





 And then for some of my other pieces, I will make material out of scrap material. So, I’ll sew together a bunch of scraps and I'll create T-shirts or pants out of them.”



Along with pushing sonic boundaries across subgenres, Nathaniel is also delving deeper into more practical issues surrounding the dance music industry as a whole; his focus on self-wellbeing and mental health is a major aspect of his ongoing collaborative tour with Sacha Robotti.



Here, Nathaniel and Yelah’s approach represents a refreshing change of pace that deviates in significant ways from the North American tech house fashion status quo.

Dillion Nathaniel & Yelah: Remixing Music Fashion

Are you ready for another week (and a new month!) in Ibiza?

There's a solid line-up of events on the White Isle that you need to know about, so let's waste no more time. Here are my top picks for this week in Ibiza.

BCC Radio 1 Dance Live  | 528 Ibiza | Friday, July 28

The annual summer event is back, continuing a tradition dating back to 1995 when BBC Radio 1 first hosted a party on the island. This year, 528 Ibiza, previously known as Benimussa Park and famed for the unforgettable Zoo Project parties, will entertain you from 4pm until midnight with diverse music across four stages - BBC R1 Dance, Radio 1 Dance Anthems, R1 Relax, and BBC Music Introducing. 

The lineup includes an incredible roster of acts including as MK, Patrick Topping, FISHER, Eats Everything, and more. Plus, as part of the mammoth weekender, the fun continues across Saturday and Sunday too, with BBC Radio 1 hosting more parties at Ushuaïa Ibiza, Ibiza Rocks, and Hï Ibiza.

Get your tickets for this incredible party.

Listen to BBC Radio 1 Dance

Elrow Kaos Garden | Amnesia Ibiza | Saturday, July 29

Every elrow event is unforgettable, simply because they’re so wild! The Kaos Garden theme is no different. This crazy concept has been brought to life by multidisciplinary artist Okuda San Miguel, and invites you to step into a real-life version of one of his favorite paintings, the Garden of Earthly Delights. 

Explore Kaos Garden's mix of astounding production, tech house music, high-flying performers, and interactive props including fun inflatables and of course their famous explosions of confetti at Amnesia Ibiza. In this multicolored world, time is irrelevant - it’s a space dedicated to spectacle, music, happiness, and unrestricted partying.



Purchase your ticket for the perfect Saturday night.

Follow elrow on Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Solomun + 1 | Pacha Ibiza | Sunday, July 30

Join Solomun and his special guest for the night, Marcel Dettmann, at the island's oldest and most renowned super club on July 30. His Solomun +1 concept has been a staple at Pacha Ibiza since 2013, and since then has become one of the club's most successful parties. 

This series of events by the 4-time DJ award winner presents a blend of underground electronic music and Pacha's electrifying atmosphere, with the DJ booth positioned in the center of the dancefloor, creating an unparalleled clubbing experience in Ibiza. Don’t miss out!



Get your tickets to Sunday’s musical showcase.

Follow Solomun on Spotify | Instagram

Eric Prydz presents HOLO | Hï Ibiza | Monday, July 31

Another unforgettable is on the cards as Swedish superstar Eric Prydz is bringing his mind-blowing HOLO show back to Hï Ibiza for another incredible week. The more intimate HOLO experience was designed especially for Hï Ibiza's Theatre Room and has been packing out the dance floor week in, week out, all summer. 

This isn't your average show - it's a jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring visual feast backed by Prydz, one of the biggest producers of the decade. Joining him is the legendary techno DJ and founder of Drumcode Records, Adam Beyer, and UK-based Cristoph. Plus, the Club Room will be under the control of British DJ and producer Patrick Topping, a breakout artist hailed for his infectious energy. Mondays are the new Friday, for sure, so get your tickets and start your week right.



Get your tickets for this audio-visual spectacle.

Follow Eric Prydz on Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

PIV Ibiza | Cova Santa Ibiza | Tuesday, Aug 1

Prepare for a unique Ibiza experience with Dutch label PIV’s high-energy event at Cova Santa. Returning after a series of memorable shows last year, PIV, led by the talented Prunk, features a spectacular lineup including Aron Volta, Janeret, Jansons, Kolter, Lauren Lo Sung, Paige Tomlinson, Prunk, and Ruze. 

Cova Santa's open-air venue perfectly enhances the PIV musical experience, starting with soulful and deep house music at 7pm as the sun sets over the San Jose hills, then gradually raising the tempo as the night falls. And when it does, you can carry on dancing in an ancient cave until the early hours. This event is the 4th of six unmissable PIV parties at Cova Santa this summer - a must-attend for any house music lover in Ibiza.



Get your ticket to PIV at Cova Santa Ibiza.

Follow PIV on Facebook | Instagram | Soundcloud

Pacha 50th Anniversary Day and Night | Destino and Pacha Ibiza | Wednesday, Aug 2

The Pacha Group is pulling out all the stops to celebrate 50 years of Pacha Ibiza with a massive double-header party on Wednesday, August 2. For the first time ever, the party will feature highly anticipated back-to-back sets by 2 of the group's stand-out resident DJs, Solomun and Marco Carola. 

Known for their sold-out individual parties, their combined force is expected to create a spectacular, high-demand daytime event at Destino Ibiza from 5pm through to midnight. Afterward, the party continues at Pacha Ibiza until the break of dawn with usual Wednesday night hosts, Bedouin joining the duo. This once-in-a-lifetime bash is one not to be missed.

Buy your ticket and celebrate with Pacha Ibiza.

Follow Solomun on Spotify | Instagram

Follow Marco Carola on Spotify | Instagram

Solid Grooves | DC-10 Ibiza | Thursday, Aug 3

Michael Bibi and PAWSA's popular Solid Grooves party returns to DC-10 Ibiza for its second season, with Aug 3 being its 9th installment of the summer. 

Every Thursday, Solid Grooves takes party-goers on a house and techno journey, reflecting the UK-based label's curation of tech fusions, house, and minimal techno beats. Known for its surprise back-to-back DJ sets, opening and closing blowouts, and unannounced villa after-parties, Solid Grooves are the ones that keep the party going all week. After gaining a loyal following with its rebellious stand against Ibiza's glamorized club culture, Solid Grooves’ authentic underground raves at DC-10 promise an unforgettable music experience every Thursday.



Don’t miss out - get your tickets.

Follow Solid Grooves on Facebook | Instagram | Soundcloud

This Week In Ibiza (July 28 - Aug 3)

The music industry has long been criticized for its inadequate value proposition to fans. These criticisms primarily focus on its opacity and lack of fairness, the industry's failure to engage supporters in meaningful decision-making processes, and the glaring absence of a direct value distribution system that rewards fans for their patronage, support, and participation.

Gray Area – a collective with a mission of building and growing a more united global house music community – has unwaveringly pursued the development and execution of this more grassroots, fan-centric approach, a cause embodied in initiatives such as their Inner-Circle membership program. Through these efforts, Gray Area has managed to build a thriving community of house music fans around the world.

As a step towards addressing some of these industry shortcomings, Gray Area is announcing its new Housekeys NFT collection, with the mint of the first 100 tokens to begin on Thursday, July 27 at 2 PM ET. By turning to Web3 technology, Gray Area seeks to deliver a mechanism that paves the way for an unprecedented level of transparency that empowers the Gray Area community to weigh in on critical decisions and unlocks the ability to reward members with IRL and digital perks of real value.

All Keyholders will have equal opportunities to contribute their input on matters such as talent curation and project direction. Access to rewards and perks however, will be proportional to the type of Housekey they possess, which come with various rarity tiers. At launch, the collection will encompass four types of keys, presented in order of increasing rarity: Neon Keys, Triangle Keys, Silver Keys, and Golden Keys. To ensure fairness, Keyholders will not know which type of key they have until after the reveal – which will take place once all tokens have been minted. At the time of the reveal, all Housekeys will be updated with their type and corresponding unique art – no two keys will look the same.

Through their global partnerships with industry-leading producers of house music shows and festivals, and its own events and live experiences, Gray Area can offer tangible and hefty perks to its Keyholders – including, but not limited to, exclusive experiences, ticket upgrades, complimentary tickets, and other IRL benefits.

Gray Area Inner-Circle members will now be able to link their Web3 wallets to their account which will persist for them as they browse the site and access their secure Housekey portal – the hub for this new program. Gray Area is one of the first to deliver a robust web3 experience which ensures their members can take advantage of owning a NFT while avoiding the typical technical obstacles that are often present. Prioritizing user-friendly design and reducing friction have been key guiding principals in the development of the Housekeys program – allowing everyone, including those new to Web3, to become Keyholders and participate in all it has to offer with ease.

The music and live events industry has seen many failed attempts take on Web3 components on their own. Gray Area has instead opted to collaborate with industry leader Cake to deliver a technologically comprehensive smart contract solution. By leaving the technical implementation of Web3 elements to Cake, Gray Area has the ability to focus on developing a robust and tailored end-user experience via a custom Web3 integration on their site.

One critical feature of Cake’s involvement is the upgradable nature of the NFT smart contract backing the Housekeys collection. This empowers Gray Area to evolve the program over time and add additional functionality without needing to deploy new contracts – bringing everyone along for the ride and helping ensure critical transparency.

To further this aim, Cake has integrated the Chainlink Verifiable Random Function (VRF) service in the smart contract, putting fairness via true verifiable randomness at the core of everything Gray Area plans to roll out for the holders of this digital token.

Specifically, by integrating the industry-leading decentralized oracle network, Housekeys now has access to a tamper-proof and auditable source of randomness needed in the minting reveal. In a nutshell, Chainlink VRF helps ensure that the distribution of NFT rarities is provably fair — and that no holder has an advantage over the other when it comes to receiving the highest rarity tier.

Cake selected Chainlink VRF because it’s based on cutting-edge academic research, supported by a time-tested oracle network, and secured through the generation and on-chain verification of cryptographic proofs that prove the integrity of each random number supplied to smart contracts.

Chainlink VRF works by combining block data that is still unknown when the request is made with the oracle node's pre-committed private key to generate both a random number and a cryptographic proof. The Housekey smart contract will only accept the random number input if it has a valid cryptographic proof, and the cryptographic proof can only be generated if the VRF process is tamper-proof. This provides our users with automated and verifiable assurances directly on-chain that the randomness underpinning the NFT rarity distribution and reveal is provably fair and was not tampered with by the oracle, outside entities, or the Gray Area/Cake teams.

Critically, this also allows Gray Area to leverage VRF-backed random number generation in future mechanisms and functionalities of the upgradable contract.

Gray Area envisions that initial successes in achieving this ambitious mission will not only facilitate the release of additional Housekey tokens to engage more members, but also inspire other players in the music and live entertainment industry to follow suit and enhance transparency, engagement, and value distribution for their communities.

“Gray Area aims to change how communities view Web3 technology because we firmly believe it gives fans a larger voice in shaping the experiences they love to attend. Working with Cake enables us to access cutting-edge technology like Chainlink VRF, which is integral to a provably fair NFT distribution and reveal.” – Michael Julian Kovadlo, Gray Area founder.

Minting of the first 100 tokens in this limited release will begin on Thursday, July 27 at 2 PM ET. To ensure access, be sure to join the waiting list on the Housekeys page – which will also lock-in your position in line for future mints.

Gray Area: Creating an Ecosystem of Mutual Value Across the Entertainment Industry With Cake and Chainlink VRF

Another week, and another list of unmissable events in Ibiza for you to get your teeth stuck into. It’s an island filled with the best DJs and parties in the world for over 20 weeks of the year, and we’ve STILL got opening parties happening even though we are storming through July.

Here’s our curated selection of this week's top parties, all in one handy place. Let’s get stuck in.



Joseph Capriati presents Metamorfosi Opening Party | Amnesia | Friday, July 21

Returning for a second year, Joseph Capriati is bringing his electrifying residency, Metamorfosi, back to Amnesia Ibiza, opening the first of 5 unforgettable nights on July 21. The collaborative magic between Amnesia and Capriati has always resonated with fans, and this summer, they're set to continue weaving their passionate narrative across the club's iconic dance floors.

For the opening party, Capriati will be joined by electronic music titans Sven Väth, Frank Storm, Indira Paganotto, Andres Campo, Sara Landry, and Skizzo, who will captivate you with a music journey far beyond the constraints of techno and tech-house. Metamorfosi, inspired by Capriati's groundbreaking album, offers more than a showcase of superior music; it's a conceptual voyage that mirrors his decade-long evolution and the multi-dimensional magic of Amnesia's state-of-the-art production.

Get your tickets for this incredible opening party.



Follow Joseph Capriati on Twitter | Instagram | Soundcloud


Black Coffee | Hï Ibiza | Saturday, July 22

Grammy award-winning DJ, Black Coffee, is back at Hï Ibiza for week 9 of his summer residency on July 22. As Hï Ibiza's first-ever resident DJ in 2017, his popularity has continued to grow throughout the years and stays as one of the most popular Saturday night parties on the island. 

The self-named weekly party at the world’s number 1 club is renowned for its exceptional blend of underground talent, headlined by Black Coffee's signature style. Expect afro beats, captivating visuals, and an atmosphere that can only be described as electric.

The Club Room will be hosted, as always, by Crosstown Rebels founder, Damian Lazarus.

Purchase your ticket for the perfect Saturday night.



Follow Black Coffee on Twitter | Instagram | Spotify


Abode | Eden Ibiza | Sunday, July 23

Abode, a household name in the house music industry, is famous for its eclectic mix of fresh genre sounds and a community-focused ethos. Its parties are a testament to diverse musical talent, unfiltered creativity, and an intoxicatingly inclusive atmosphere. This year, with a massive UK fan base backing them, Abode stakes its claim at Eden Ibiza, marking its first residency in San Antonio and introducing the house magic it's celebrated for globally.

Originating from a once-a-month Sunday party in East London, Abode's influence has since spread worldwide, touching the heart of clubbing scenes from Dubai to Las Vegas, Amsterdam to Mexico. Armand Van Helden, Darius Syrossian, GW Harrison, and Ellie Cocks are ready to take you on a thrilling journey through the depths of house music on July 23.

Get your tickets and end your week right!



Follow Abode on Spotify | Instagram


Circoloco 24th Anniversary | DC-10 Ibiza | Monday, July 24

Renowned as the Holy Grail of clubs, DC-10 Ibiza, and its iconic event Circoloco, have been a staple in the electronic music world since 1999. On July 24, the brand and party are celebrating their 24th Anniversary, and you’re invited!

Initially an 'afters' session starting at 6am on a Monday morning and running for 12+ hours, Circoloco has grown and evolved in sync with the vibrant energy of the White Isle, becoming a must-attend event for ravers, house-heads, and techno-stompers worldwide.

So, get prepped for a 12-hour session of the finest underground, house, and techno talent from an incredible lineup of Circoloco alumni in both the terrace and main room. DC-10 and Circoloco's success over the past 24 years has only strengthened their status as iconic landmarks in the Ibiza clubbing scene, and this edition will certainly solidify that further.

Get your tickets and celebrate with Circoloco.



Follow Circoloco on Facebook | Instagram | Soundcloud


Camelphat All Night Long | Pacha Ibiza | Tuesday, July 25

Dynamic DJ duo Camelphat are all set to command the stage at the legendary Pacha Ibiza for an exclusive all-night session on July 25. Known for their electrifying performances, Camelphat's residency at Pacha, a club with a rich 50-year legacy, has proven to be a night filled with house and melodic techno mastery - they truly have redefined Tuesday nights on the island.

This solo performance on July 25 will be a showcase of Camelphat's deep understanding of music genres and their unending passion for performance. Their move to Pacha has already been hailed as a game-changer, and this all-night session is set to escalate them even further. Get ready for a memorable night at Ibiza’s oldest superclub.

Purchase your ticket to this Pacha all-nighter

Follow Camelphat on Soundcloud | Instagram



EXHALE Opening Party | DC-10 Ibiza | Wednesday, July 26

Get ready for a phenomenal opening night as EXHALE takes over the legendary DC-10 Ibiza on July 26, with techno powerhouse Amelie Lens leading the charge. From 11 pm until the early hours, expect an explosive auditory experience that builds on EXHALE's past successes. This season aims to be bigger, bolder, and more immersive, promising an exhilarating journey of foot-stomping, heart-pounding techno.

Originating from Belgium's Labyrinth Club, EXHALE has become a global phenomenon under the expert guidance of Lens, attracting a broad community with its distinctive beat. As the night unfolds, Lens, renowned for her unique fusion of classic house and contemporary European techno, promises a captivating performance that solidifies her status as a techno connoisseur along with the rest of the strong opening party lineup.

Buy your ticket for EXHALE opening party.



Follow Amelie Lens on Facebook | Instagram | Soundcloud



Music On Daytime | Destino | Thursday, July 27

Known for his mastery in the electronic music scene, Marco Carola will be blending the finest dark techno and underground house tracks under the Balearic sun at Destino Ibiza. Since its creation in 2012, Music On has been synonymous with quality music, so expect only the best for the Daytime edition.

Destino Ibiza is one of the best open-air venues on the island, famous for its handful of carefully curated events throughout the summer season. If you've never experienced a Music On al-fresco fiesta at Destino, this is your chance to immerse yourself in a mesmerizing musical journey that embodies the spirit of Ibiza.

Don’t miss out - get your tickets.



Follow Marco Carola on Instagram | Soundcloud

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