As states begin to end indoor mask mandates for vaccinated people across the US, we reflect on nightlife venues' journey to organize safe gatherings for the masses over the past two years. Navigating life with COVID and its variants hasn't been an easy task, but one group of event organizers demonstrated how to efficiently and safely coordinate incredible shows for vaccinated Southern California club-goers.

The COMPOUND venue has been throwing parties nonstop in Los Angeles since 2007. Looking out for their longevity and the community, they decided to press pause on events at the location in the months following the COVID-19 pandemic breakout in 2020. When lockdown ended in June last year, artists Ønyx and Insical asked if they could document the return of COMPOUND.

Nightlife organizations COMPOUND, INCOGNITO, 6AM, Dirty Epic, and Synthetik Minds worked together to produce an unforgettable event to commemorate the long-awaited return to the dance floor after all mass gatherings, and live events ground to a halt. Returning to the Dancefloor depicts their story as it came to a brilliant apex in Los Angeles earlier this year.

"This video is a story of that," said organizers from the house and techno club INCOGNITO in a statement. "…and a reminder that we must continue to do what is right by each other so that we can keep our community dancing safely."

As seen in the documentary, the stunning festival-sized return of COMPOUND was an incredible affair. With state-of-the-art light shows, an incredible sound system, and plenty of open-air passages for increased ventilation, the massive warehouse party was a celebration of music and community. 

Featuring techno acts like Modus, Jeremy Olander, Sophia Saze, Nur Jaber, Regis, Orly Gal, and so many more, the two-night event was an eagerly anticipated event that exceeded expectations.

In an exclusive interview with Gray Area, Dirty Epic founder-curator Andrew Souto shared his frustration about not being able to work in nightlife these past two unprecedented years of almost opening and then being let down when officials deemed it unsafe at the last minute. 

"We had been anticipating the reopening for many months and were even putting artist holds as soon as we were given a date of reopening. Foreign artists were still barred from entering even with a working visa so we had to focus on Americans only which was really fun but became more difficult as the excitement about events being open waned and we had started running out of new options for bookings," said Souto.

In the months since events & nightlife have started up again, Souto says returning has meant everything and more to him.

"Not just throwing events but just the social aspect of talking with strangers, and having some good laughs. Getting closer with my core group was great for a while but that diversity is necessary."

The COMPOUND party continues, with many more underground techno events lined up for winter 2022. The organizers shared that they will continue to remain consistent with guidelines from health authorities, requiring proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of an event. The promoters continue unwavering in their commitment to throw safe, enjoyable events as the world proceeds with navigating through life with COVID and its variants.

"Life needs to return to normal at some point," said Souto. "I'm happy to shut down business again if we have to, but this thing can't have a massive influence on our lives forever." 

Stream the Compound LA documentary on Youtube.

Words by: Melisa Yuriar

Watch Compound LA's Return to the Underground

One of the most iconic gatherings in dance music culture is back in full effect this week. Miami Music Week has returned for its first proper edition since 2019, and everybody’s celebrating. Whether you’re chilling out poolside and leaving your plans up to chance or mapping out your itinerary down to the hour day by day, Gray Area has got you covered on the coolest places and parties that can be found in Miami this week…




Pool Parties

It wouldn’t be Miami Music Week without some pool-adjacent beats and bangers. That’s why Gray Area is teaming up with top-tier talent to offer five days’ worth of dance music madness at The National Hotel. Between Wednesday, March 23 and Sunday, March 27, this oceanfront Miami Beach getaway will host everyone from melodic techno titans like CamelPhat and Magdalena to electro misfit Tiga and house music legends Green Velvet and MK to San Francisco staple Justin Martin. You can get a full rundown on the Gray Area goodness and details on each party by checking out the complete list of events right here.




Scenic Shopping

Yes, Miami Music Week orbits around the dance floor and the magic of the crowd uniting under a groove. But like it or not, it’s also about serving up the looks, and there’s no shortage of places in Miami where you can score some sweet apparel. 

Upper Buena Vista and the Miami Design District are among the 305’s many shopping hubs. Both areas also include an array of sights to see and savory spaces to grab a bite. Don’t skip out on the incredible creativity displayed at the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami) or the delicious nibbles and immaculate atmosphere emanating from Palapa Miami.




Club Culture

Assuming you’ll have enough energy left over from your daytime shenanigans, these are the places you’ll likely be spending most of your Miami Music Week nights. 

Club Space is a mecca for Miami’s after-hours landscape, and revelers passing through its hallowed dance floor will have the treat of being among the first to see its newly colorful halls redesigned by Miami-based artist Francisca Oyhanarte. 




If you’re going to be in the downtown area and would like a more intimate experience, you can’t go wrong with Floyd — a sub-venue of Club Space that caters to more underground acts — or ATV Records, which boasts the best disco ball in Miami. 

If your Miami Music Week is planned largely in the area you’re staying, get familiar with each neighborhood’s venues. If you’re sticking to Miami Beach, get familiar with Do Not Sit on the Furniture and Treehouse. 

Wynwood’s got a lot going on too, with 1-800-Lucky and Oasis Wynwood bringing the heat courtesy of selectors like Skream and Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs as well as A-Trak and friends.




Airport Arrangements

There’s more to the art of party producing than just what’s immediately visible on the surface. Booking top-notch DJs and securing fancy light setups get you far. Still, a stellar get-together needs that extra something to make it truly special. It requires finesse, vision, and a holistic consideration for aesthetics. In other words, you need to curate a vibe. 




Fortunately, Where Are My Keys? has plenty of vibes to go around. Although this long-running party has taken place at multiple locations over the years, it’s found a comfortable home in recent editions at 94th Aero Squadron, an old-timey restaurant and event space situated right next to Miami International Airport. 

Where Are My Keys? is usually a seasonal affair reserved for long weekends and special occasions, but it’s pulling out all the stops for Miami Music Week 2022 by staging three parties spread across three days. Move D will control the decks with an extended set on Thursday, March 24. Friday will be a Life and Death & House of EFUNK showcase featuring respective label masterminds DJ Tennis and Soul Clap along with AceMoMA, DJ Holographic, and more. 

On Sunday, March 27, the closing party is poised to be one for the books. Palms Trax and Omar S will join Miami’s own Danny Daze on the ones and twos — if you’ve never had the privilege of raving until sunrise as planes land and take off mere feet away from you, circle these dates on your calendars.

 

 

Record Store Recommendations

If you’re planning on crate-digging during your Miami stay, you can’t go wrong with these record stores. Sweat Records and Technique Records have become foundational to Miami’s musical community through their impressive selections as well as their frequent in-store events. If you’re looking for more specialized wax, T Bag Records has an ample supply of dance music deep cuts, while The Miami Record Fair, staged by local label Terrestrial Funk, will feature a little bit of everything. 




Beach Bumming

Although South Beach is the obvious choice for where to bask in Miami’s sands, locals know that it’s actually all about Haulover Park Beach. This northern alternative is much less crowded than the international tourist trap, but you also enjoy the beach without the fleet of airplanes and boats advertising club nights you’ll never actually go to. As if that wasn’t enough, you’ll also actually be able to find parking. Oh, and there’s a clothing-optional section of the beach… y’know if you’re into that sort of thing. 

 

Coffee Consumption

Wherever you’re staying in Miami, find your closest Panther Coffee. You’ll need caffeine if you’re going to survive the week, and this local chain offers some of the best brews you’ll find in the 305. And should you stumble out of Club Space, ATV Records, or any downtown spot at an unreasonable hour of the morning, All Day is right around the corner to provide one last brain boost for the day.

 

Bar Bumping

 No visit to Miami is complete without a dive into its local watering holes. Dante’s HiFi has quickly become one of the city’s most essential musical hubs with its bespoke sound system, intimate atmosphere, and consistently excellent programming curated by musical director Rich Medina. And yes, the cocktails and Miami Music Week offerings are delicious as well — be sure to swing by the Wynwood hangout on Wednesday, March 23, for a cozy listening session with house music master Louie Vega, who’ll be guiding guests through his new LP, Expansions In The NYC. 

While you’re in the neighborhood, grab a drink at Gramps, a Wynwood institution that’s stood strong while its surrounding area has changed several times over. As for darker and lovably seedier dens, you can’t go wrong with Mac’s Club Deuce on Miami Beach, Las Rosas, or The Corner.

 

Rest & Relaxation 

Miami Music Week is a marathon, and you better carve out some time to recharge if you hope to make it through with your brain cells intact. If you’re winding down from an early morning of partying and could use a relaxing rendezvous, there are several spots promising just that. The Vagabond Hotel in the MiMo Historic District and The Standard both provide sunshine and refreshing pools far away from the hustle and bustle of South Beach. Just make sure to coordinate with your crew or be prepared to fork over some cash for passes: luxury doesn’t come cheap, and neither does seeing everything Miami has to offer. 

 

Graffiti Go-To

The abundance of art adorning Wynwood’s walls has become a world-famous sight. Although the neighborhood’s changed a lot since it first became a popular hang for Miami’s culturally inclined scenesters, it’s still worth seeing for anyone visiting the 305 for the first time. Whether you’re in the area to grab some food — don’t sleep on the delicious Mexican cuisine being served up by Coyo Taco — or trying to check out the myriad parties happening over the next few days, odds are you’ll spot something that catches your eye in Wynwood.

Words by: Zach Schlein

The Gray Area Guide to Miami Music Week

Long before becoming a celebrated producer, DJ, and event producer, she honed her skills as a pivotal part of Solomun’s Diynamic family. Behind the scenes, she was a powerhouse running the label’s famous EGO club in her hometown, Hamburg. By the time she started her weekly party at the German hotspot, she was already well on her way to stardom. She’d spent years learning every aspect of the industry and thus understood how to read the room as a DJ and properly build a vibe as a host.

Her infectiously positive spirit, brilliant understanding of what moves the room, and gorgeously produced music put her in prime position to dominate clubland. And after residencies in Ibiza, appearances on festival stages, and releases on Diynamic, John Digweed’s Bedrock, Mobilee, Anjunadeep, and Nicole Moudaber’s Mood, she decided to curate her party concept, Shadows.

Firmly focussed on vibey emotive melodic house and techno, Magdalena had curated a brand that excels at uplifting new artists and showcasing well-established ones in beautiful settings that heighten the music and allow dancers to go inward, just a bit. 

Shadows takes its name from the ineffable transition from day to night. When you can observe your silhouette lengthen and shimmer in the daylight as it slowly disappears with the setting sun. 

The next stop for Shadows is Miami Music Week at The National Hotel on Sunday, March 27. We caught up with Magdalena to chat about the lauded party brand re-emerging from the pandemic, what she loves about Miami, and the magic that the golden hour holds for her.

Tickets are available now.

You just did a Shadows event in Tulum and at SXM. And the concept is widely known around the world. So what’s unique about bringing the vibe to the US.

With the SHADOWS vibe, we try to capture the Ibiza feeling as it was back in the days and bring it to places around the world like Tulum, the Caribbean for SXM Festival, or Miami in a few weeks. I’d say what’s unique is the way we curate the days and nights musically and our approach to the overall concept.


You had a pretty long history in the industry before starting Shadows. What was the motivation behind starting something of your own?

My motivation behind SHADOWS is that I wanted to build a platform where I can showcase talent, which inspires me in my sets. There are so many super talented newcomer producers out there who are missing a platform for exposure. With SHADOWS, I am creating a platform where we can highlight such talent.

In club culture, we are so trained to treasure sunrises. Yet, there’s something magical about the change from day tonight. So why did you decide to focus on that as part of Shadows? 

I love the golden hour. That’s the time when you naturally start to slow down and find your inner self. Also, with music, this is a very interesting time for transition. The vibe goes from laid back-relaxed over to uplifting, energetic. Perfect to showcase different electronic music styles in one party while still hitting the right vibe for every set.

What magic does that space hold for you?

Going on a night out is like turning the page in my book of life to a blank and unwritten sheet. New stories are to be told. The transition from day to night is when this page gets turned, and a new small story starts to be written.


Miami holds its own as a party city alongside Tulum, Ibiza, and any other city in the world. But the vibe is different. What do you treasure about Miami?

I love the energy in Miami. I’ve had amazing morning sets that turned into extended daytime sessions. I feel like the party crowd in Miami is full of energy and manages to stay on the dancefloor for a very long time. Maybe that’s because, in Tulum and Ibiza, the party crowd kinda runs from one party to the next without taking the time to really immerse themselves in the party they’re in at the moment. In Miami, that’s different.

Can you talk about the new design concept for Shadows? What inspired the change, and is it a reflection of any personal changes?

Of course, the forced Covid break was also a time to think about all of the details. Me and my team felt like the SHADOWS brand needed a visual uplift, and we were lucky to have found a very talented visual artist called Tommy Onraed, who does an amazing job. The new design already looks amazing, but we’re still tweaking the last few details with every event we put on until I have the feeling that the design is perfect for the years to come.

You took some time off last year to work on music. Will we be hearing any of this music in Miami?

This you can be sure of! Loads of new music coming…


You also told Mixmag Brazil that breakbeats and a new synth had inspired you. Breaks have always been a massively underrepresented genre. What about the genre has inspired you more recently, and do you see the genre being more prominent on bigger stages?

When I listen to music, I don’t think so much about what I listen to. It’s more my tummy that takes the decisions. I need to feel good when defining the style of music that I play. Kind of like falling in love, where you don’t use your brain to fall in love; it’s your heart that makes decisions. My tummy tells me that breakbeats and new synths are a way to spice up things at the moment, so if you’re asking me if these genres will become more prominent on bigger stages, I’d give you a yes :)


Breakbeat also has a pretty legendary connection to Miami and Florida. How do your sets in each city reflect the musical DNA of the community there?

I put a lot of thinking and preparation into every set I play. I don’t just arrive at the venue, put my USB stick into the player and start playing. Every time I travel to a new city, I check the taste of the local scene, combine this with my own taste in music and create something unique for every city.

Finish this sentence. House music is… 

…one of the reasons I get out of bed every morning.

Words by: Alex Dias

Magdalena Celebrates The Magic of The Golden Hour With Shadows Miami

Alessandro and Federico Fognini—aka Mind Against—have, over the last decade, become a driving force in techno. The Italian-born, Berlin-based duo turned heads in 2013 with their debut Atlant  EP on DJ Tennis' Life and Death imprint. Melding intelligent and compelling sound design, soaring synth work, and a decidedly 80's aesthetic, they quickly rose the ranks. And after being launched into the spotlight, they moved on to help establish Afterlife, the party brand record label owned by fellow Italian duo Tale of Us.

Their remix of Stephen Bodzin's "Earth," is everything great about them in just under eight minutes. The chugging Moroder-esque bassline thumps from the gate while a sheet of warm synths softly rains down. The glorious breakdown preserves the vibe and structure of Bodzin's original synth work but adds a big room shimmer that moves the song into the stratosphere.

Track of the Week: Mind Against Remix Stephen Bodzin's 'Earth'

As we gear up for Miami Music Week, we thought it'd be proper to get things grooving with this masterpiece of a mix from Mathame. Italian brothers Amedeo and Matteo Giovanelli started making music together while living in the forest on the slopes of Mount Etna, an active volcano on the east coast of Sicily. The combination of Amedeo's youthful energy and Matteo's spiritual understanding make for dreamy melodics with serious dancefloor weight.

Pete Tong named their 2021 Essential Mix as the best of the year. But watching the brothers lay it down for Afterlife's Unity Live Series amongst the sweeping natural beauty that first inspired them to create is truly an emotional experience. From start to finish, this mix tugs at the feels. And sticking around for the final track from Icelandic band Sigur Ros ties everything together beautifully.

Mathame will be joining Yotto, Oona Dahl, Rodriguez Jr, and Magdalena for the Shadows Pool Party to close out Miami Music Week. It goes down at the National Hotel on Sunday, March 27, 2022. Tickets are available now.

Follow Mathame on Instagram | Spotify | Soundcloud

Set of the Week: Mathame for Afterlife's Unity Live

Music creates communities. Festivals are the physical manifestation of that concept. When thousands of people concentrate in an area to eat, sleep, and be entertained, sustainability experts liken these complex communities to mini-cities. With this in mind, one Amsterdam-based festival is determined to set a new standard for environmentally-friendly events. 

On top of a spectacular music and visual art lineup, DGTL group has curated their sustainability efforts with extreme detail. They place a significant focus on climate impact, with the goal “to become the first regenerative event organization on a global scale,” according to their website. 

DGTL Amsterdam takes place on April 15-17, 2022, at the NDSM Docklands. The lineup brings a variety of electronic DJs spinning trance, techno, and deep house. Talents behind the booth include LSDXOXO, Jon Hopkins, KI/KI, Jaguar, and Kerri Chandler b2b Hot Since 82. 

DGTL 2022 plans to be climate-neutral, and they are meticulous with how they define their goals. This year they added a third day and have seven stages with 80 artists. DGTL also has editions taking place this year across Tel Aviv, São Paulo, Barcelona, Santiago, Mumbai, and Guadalajara. 

Seeing as DTGL has expanded their objectives and welcomes back more folks year after year, they proudly call themselves sustainable under Dutch green deal standards. Since the first edition in 2017, they have become a “fully circular festival,” which  means DGTL designs their events “to close material loops, eliminate CO2-emissions, and increase environmental awareness.” 

The high consumption nature of festivals has traditionally failed to model sustainability efforts. It takes massive amounts of energy to support people gathering and dispersing throughout a weekend. While the loudest examples fall on poor planning, the attendees also play a huge part.  

Famously, at the close of Woodstock 1969, images show the mass garbage piles accumulated by 8000 volunteers who stayed to clean up after the 400,000 attendees. With exponentially larger crowds than expected, the toilet and water situation was disastrous, and potable water was tainted. Archeologists have uncovered traces of the festival fifty years later in an excavation of the Bethel, New York grounds. 

Festival organization has come a long way and usually manages to serve the expected crowd size, but with or without sustainability in mind, they aren’t perfect. 

In 2021, the Reading and Leeds Festival made headlines when thousands of tents and sleeping bags were abandoned at the Bramham Park site. Some materials were redistributed around Europe through Herts for Refugees. But the lack of understanding often toted leave no trace policies was astounding. Reading Festival’s sustainability coordinator Lily Robbins said, “The ultimate messaging is: take your tent home. It’s the best thing people can do.” 

Broken cups, water bottles, gum wrappers, beer cans, and tiny baggies... Plastic waste is probably the number one thing that comes to mind for anyone who has kicked their way through trash towards the venue exit. In numbers reported in 2015 by Powerful Thinking, a think tank on sustainability and festivals, events in the UK generate 23,500 tonnes of waste annually, and only 32% is recyclable. 

In their sustainability report, DGTL calculated how much CO2 is emitted per artist - an average of 196kg. The average weight of waste created by visitors is 2.33 kg, and they have already reduced that to 93 grams in 2019, with the goal this year to hit zero. They redirect landfill waste to compost using food trays made of sugar cane. By switching to hard cups, the festival is saving an average of 1000kg of plastic. Their machinery uses biodiesel—Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil—as a fuel alternative with lower emissions. 

This year, DGTL wants to change the “waste status” of, well, human waste. So it comes down to what is considered “waste” and how the emissions are counteracted. 

They broke down the categories of sustainability into food, sanitation, energy, resources, and mobility. Each presents unique challenges to reducing waste and increasing renewable sources while minimizing climate impact. From transportation and drink stalls to stage production and portapotties, DGTL demonstrates how festivals can look at renewable options. 

The goals address many points for environmental impact, and most of the energy solutions are specific to the Netherlands, like Greener batteries and power grids that use renewable energy sources. The Dutch government’s participation in the international Green Deal Circular Festivals initiative is a commitment to “reduce the environmental impact of European festivals as much as possible by 2025.” DGTL’s parent company Apenkooi Events, was one of the first to meet the criteria.  

All these numbers sound impressive and promising but does it truly change the impact? 

As standards change and these practices become more popular, we might see more festivals at the very least be inspired to track their energy usage and output. However, festival companies expect to push tons of waste towards landfills and emissions even with diligent planning. Offsetting emissions by planting trees and supporting outside initiatives after the fact is a final phase option. The point of touting sustainability is being able to do the numbers and keep eco-friendliness ingrained in the planning of outdoor events, not as a later problem.

Nothing beats the feeling of returning to your favorite festival’s sacred grounds after a long time away. The desire for a trash-free dancefloor the next day seems to instill a little respect for a voluntary cleanup effort, too. Often festival attendees are eager to help with just a little personal incentive – what comes to mind is the dinosaur pin my friend got after turning in a bag of trash at Lost Lands. A few people caring for the rest of the crowd go a long way in terms of tidiness, but does that equate to sustainability? 

Young adults care most about climate change, and they’re also the demographic buying the most tickets. Naturally, for those seeking a wholesome festival experience over aesthetics, placing value on sustainability on the festival front adds points to attending a show on top of an appealing lineup. It’s hard to ignore when the festival’s information writes its environmental commitment so boldly. If we knew precisely how resource management affects ticket prices, that might highlight the literal value of sustainability, even if we can’t picture the true costs. 

The Netherlands has hundreds of festivals each year, and it’s ripe with opportunities to innovate festival sustainability practices at multiple scales. An abundance of resources are required to create a space for people to settle in and move across festival grounds. Sustainability is best managed at smaller-scale festivals, but DTGL’s long list of environmentally friendly solutions can be applied to festivals with tens or hundreds of thousands in attendance. 

Leading the charge in making festivals more eco-friendly is Mitchell van Dooijeweerd, the sustainability manager for DGTL and the Revolution Foundation in the Netherlands. Revolution is involved with a dozen festival organizers, including DGTL, elrow, The Gardens of Babylon, and Valhalla. His approach aims to invoke a change in behavior with festivals, partners, local governments, and attendees. He looks at the micro-city perspective of festivals as they are a controlled environment to test various solutions that can be applied to the rest of the world. 

The United Nations identifies even more targets for creating sustainability development in a holistic sense, including social and economic growth. Festivals contribute to local tourism, but job creation and upsizing productions can also conflict with the notion of making environmental strides. 

So, is it possible to have a genuinely sustainable festival ecosystem? 

In the fast-paced, hedonistic world of a music festival weekend, fans can easily overlook what goes into the production and what is left over afterward. But escapism shouldn’t exclude morals: respect for your space is very much in line with PLUR values. Fans will notice real work and see through greenwashing. It will take years, but with international green deals growing, festivals are starting to catch on. 

The incentive for festivals would be to see positive feedback and money saved by using green alternatives. This usually looks like a green deal with government benefits, which is the main reason festivals will take action. It certainly can’t hurt festivals to tote their efforts in their marketing and explain the significance for people to grasp what it looks like to be “circular” beyond the buzzwords.

DGTL’s transparency shows integrity and effort in handling the most tangible aspects of what inevitably goes into human gatherings and major stage productions. The community and culture that a festival brings to its surrounding area should be a point of pride. Following incentive programs may boost the profile of festivals locally, and successful partnerships translate to increased chances of an event returning. 

With a multifold approach, DGTL hopes a handful of its methods will be adopted by other festivals internationally. The visibility of sustainable efforts are essential for others to understand, emulate and appreciate. While not everyone will be down for “pee to tea” levels of regeneration any time soon, the focus on sustainability is a choice organizers can either approach head-on or deal with as an afterthought. 

Words by: Aurora Zboch

How DGTL Amsterdam Raises the Bar for Festival Sustainability

New York DJ, CID, has steadily made a name for himself throughout the years. He’s an in-demand producer with a love and passion for dance music that’s been evident since day one. He’s a two-time Grammy nominee in the Best Remix Recording category, and in 2014 he won for his co-production of Lana Del Rey’s “Summertime Sadness” remix.

But how much do you really know about CID? Did you know that his name is actually Cid, Carlos Cid to be exact? Cid’s his last name and he grew up with people calling him just that, so it seemed apropos for a DJ name. He’s of Spanish descent, with his family hailing from Spain, but he was born in Queens, New York. He started DJing at the tender age of 12, taking buses throughout the New York boroughs to various record shops so he could spend the day crate digging.

His aptitude for music was clear, even at such a young age and he caught the attention of top NY DJs who were intrigued by him and his enthusiasm. That led him to hone his craft and soon he joined the ranks of those top DJs. He can totally hold his own against top tier talent, yet he, like anyone else, still has those artists he looks up to and one day hopes to work with. His ultimate dream collaboration? Daft Punk, because of course it is. Green Velvet, Riton, Claude VonStroke, Benny Blanco, and Calvin Harris also made that list, which shows game recognizes game. 

And game really does recognize game, as CID’s talents have led him to where he is today; fully appreciated and working with some of the biggest names in dance music. He’s got so many collaborations under his belt, we thought we’d pick some of our favorites and list them here for you.  


Follow CID on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud

Alex Adair - Make Me Feel Better (Don Diablo & CID Remix)

First up is frequent collaborator Don Diablo. Together, he and CID have teamed up for countless remixes together, each more fire than the last, it’s kind of hard to just pick one. In my mind, the remix deserving the most of recognition is “Make Me Feel Better” by English producer, DJ and remixer Alex Adair. Released in 2015, this track was THE hit of the summer. It was a global phenomenon, played on many major radio stations. With its infectious sound, energetic vocals and quality mastering, it’s no wonder “Make Me Feel Better” is a certified anthem. 

Follow Don Diablo on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud

Follow Alex Adair on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud






Kaskade & CID - Us

Also making this list is Kaskade, as he and CID collaborated together for not one, but TWO tracks, “Us” and “Sweet Memories.” For this instance, we’ll feature the earlier track, “Us.” Released in 2015, “Us” is a song about intimacy and young love. The ethereal lyrics, beautiful melody and chunky basslines make for one upbeat song. The official video for this song really fits the lyrics, bringing so much hope while depicting a raw, real-life love story of a family in the Philippines. The harmony, energy and overall vibe truly make for one feel-good song. 

Follow Kaskade on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud





CID - Secrets ft. Conrad Sewell

CID started 2017 off with a bang as he teamed up with Australian singer/songwriter Conrad Sewell for their collaborative track “Secrets.” This stirring single touches on the feelings that secrets can evoke: the willingness to do almost anything for another person, sometimes even at the detriment of yourself.  The video breathes new life into the lyrics sung by Sewell, telling the story of a lover experiencing hardship, who, despite all that, keeps their promises as best they can.  Together, Sewell and CID create a song that is reminiscent of The Weeknd, and find just the perfect balance between delicate lyrics and bouncy house bass.

Follow Conrad Sewell on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud 





Galantis - Pillow Fight (Galantis & CID VIP Mix)

Galantis' music puts smiles on people’s faces. This Swedish duo has incredible talent and a vast expertise of dance-pop. Their 2017 song, “Pillow Fight” is a euphoric anthem already on its own,  so when CID was brought on, he helped take it to that next level with a VIP remix. This rendition leans even more into dance music, adding the original male vocal, epic build-ups and heavier bass. This song is the ideal creation for these two, showcasing their connection in the best possible way.  

Follow Galantis on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud






CID - Believer ft. CeeLo Green

2017 was a big year for CID and collaborations. This time, he teamed up with Cee-Lo Green for “Believer,” a cheerful, hopeful song all about love. “Believer” debuted to the world at a time when faith in humanity was at an all time low, and it’s inspirational and catchy sound, plus the animated video full of imagination, was just what the world needed. Trust me when I say this song has the perfect beat to tap your feet. If you’re needing a mood booster or a little more positivity in your life, “Believer” is just the song for you. 

Follow Cee-Lo Green on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud





CID & VINNE - Take Your Place

For this next collaboration, CID teams up with Brazilian Bass master Vinne for 2018’s “Take Your Place,” released on Tiesto’s label, Musical Freedom. CID himself describes this song as a ‘dancefloor weapon’ and let me tell you, he’s not wrong. This track has it all- trippy vocals, glitched out beats, a sick drop and dirty dirty basslines. It’s the quintessential blend of styles and really showcases just what these two talented producers can really do. 

Follow Vinne on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud 




CID x Riddim Commission - ME N U 

Riddim Commission and CID came together in 2019 for “Me N U,” which samples the classic Cassie track, “Me & U.” This collaboration really melded both Riddim Commission’s and CID’s styles entirely, what with CID’s ability to stand out and Riddim Commission’s ability of mashing together different genres. Released on CID’s Night Service Only label, this song has a bouncy melody, big basslines and just an all around good vibe. Perfect for CID’s label, “Me N U” is the ultimate dancefloor banger and will instantly put a smile on your face as soon as the first note hits. 

Follow Riddim Commission on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud





Loud Luxury x CID - Nights Like This

Next up is the 2020 collaboration between duo Loud Luxury and CID, “Nights Like This.” This pairing is a match made in heaven as these guys are true party-starters and really know how to get the crowd moving. And their creation? An uplifting track full of good vibes and nostalgia, reminiscent of all those times, or nights, you never want to forget. This song really makes you think about the small stuff, savoring each and every moment. 

Follow Loud Luxury on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud





Dombresky & CID - R.E.A.L

In 2021, Dombresky linked up with CID and gave us “R.E.A.L,” a song that walks the fine line between tech house and funky house. Using old-school hip-hop samples, “R.E.A.L is nostalgia wrapped in house music. The familiar melodies and memorable lyrics are like an old, long lost friend. Couple that with thumping bass and the innovative take on the classics, and you’ve got yourself a banger. 

Follow Dombresky on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud





Lana Del Rey vs Cedric Gervais 'Summertime Sadness' Remix

And of course we couldn’t make a list about CID collaborations without including the one that led to his first Grammy.  In 2014, Cedric Gervais was commissioned to remix Lana Del Rey’s “Summertime Sadness” and CID helped co-produce it. Obviously it was a match made in heaven and the remix was a great success. CID and Gervais took Del Rey’s melancholic track and turned it into a club hit. The contrast between Del Rey’s haunting lyrics and allure, and the exultant incorporation of house make for a unique sound that is sure to destroy dancefloors. 

Follow Cedric Gervais on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud

10 Must Listen CID  Collabs

Over the past ten years, Barcelona-based party promoters elrow have grown into a global force in electronic music events. What started as a “slightly illegal” Sunday morning party at a club called Row 14, near the Barcelona Airport, has ballooned into an events company that now hosts 100+ parties a year and half a dozen festivals, from the Caribean to Egypt to Chicago to Peru. Gray Area caught up with the founder and leader of elrow, Juan Arnau, to talk about their upcoming US tour and some of the past parties that have put them on the map. 

Juan Arnau was born into clubbing royalty. His family has run legendary nightclubs for seven generations in and around northern Spain. For decades, the family was famous for its nightclub Florida135 in Fraga, Aragon. First opened in the 1940s as a cinema, it became a dancehall, then a disco, then a club hosting the first proper house and techno parties in Spain in the late ’80s. 

In 2009, the latest generation of Arnaus opened a new club called Row 14. Its Sunday Sessions parties became famous for elaborate decor, costumed dancers, stilt walkers, confetti, inflatables, props, performances, and other shenanigans. At an elrow party, the aim was to make the crowd the star attraction – a policy that’s resonated with clubbers across the world, though nowhere more than in Ibiza. 

Starting in the early 2010s, elrow hosted two seasons at the Vista Club, followed by three seasons at Space, before a massive 2017 season at Amnesia. By 2019, elrow was throwing multiple massive parties every week across the world, hosting stages at festivals, and running festivals of its own. Then the pandemic hit, and everything ground to a halt. 


“We were essentially stopped by the pandemic for two years,” says Juan Arnau. “But things are finally coming back. We recently did our largest post-pandemic show, elrow in Amsterdam, for 25,000 people back in September. Since then we’ve been rebuilding the team, going back into the party mood, especially in Europe but also in the USA. 

"We also managed to get to the UK because they opened up a bit before the rest of Europe. We did a big show on New Year’s Eve in Madrid for 2,000 people. Finally we’re back to doing shows in Barcelona in our club, where we’re based. And as of today, we’re launching three or four festivals in the next few weeks, planning the summer, and looking forward to being back on the road – finally.” 

So how do they manage to do everything when most promoters are pleased to put on one show a month? “If we are capable of putting on 110, 120 shows a year it’s because of the team. I consider them almost a family, and we work really well together. The base is here in Barcelona, but we have teams now in countries around the world. We have 30, 40 people in Ibiza because that’s a really important place for us. Our great team makes it possible – and then the audience makes the magic happen.” 


Over the years, elrow has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible, hosting events in ever-more-unlikely venues. “We are a creative company,” Arnau laughs. “About five years ago we got sponsorship from Heineken and they challenged us to come up with the craziest event we could. The first idea was a hot air balloon festival. We put together 10 hot air balloons and invited 2,000 people for a party up in the sky, three hours outside Barcelona.” 

The party worked, generating predictable amounts of attention on social media. A year later, Heineken returned to sponsor another one – if elrow could think of an ever more prodigious venue. 

“So we found the deepest diving pool in the world, it’s in Italy, and we decided to do a party there. We convinced Peggy Gou to play and we invited about 300 people.”


So… how do you throw a party at the bottom of a diving pool? 

“There was a small dancefloor outside the pool,” explains Arnau. “Peggy was playing in a transparent tube that ran through the middle of the pool. Partiers took turns going into the tube, 15 at a time, to dance and take pictures with Peggy underwater in the middle of the tube. It was challenging – the insurance, the security, all that – but it was very powerful on social media. We’re a creative company, and we were very happy with how it went.” 

Does every party come off without a hitch? Of course not. “After the last seven years of touring we have many stories of things going wrong,” says Arnau. “Four years ago, we were supposed to do our first festival in Spain, in a town one hour from Barcelona. I met the mayor, the town council, and everything seemed fine. We had a press conference to announce it and I booked the DJs and the performers, and then one month before the show they told us they weren’t going to give us the permit and the whole event was canceled. That sort of thing happens and it’s very stressful. Finally, four years later, we’re putting on a festival in Spain this year, in Madrid next month, but that cancellation was a painful one. We lost a lot of money, but that’s all part of it. 

"There are dozens of stories like that," he continues. "We’ve had containers of decorations blocked in Colombia, and we had to pay bribes to the police to get them out. We’ve had shipping containers of costumes and decorations lost forever in Dubai. We lost a container in Lebanon. Someone just took it from the harbor and we never saw it again.”

So, is elrow ever tempted to make things easier for itself and just put on regular parties in regular places? 

“No,” says Arnau without hesitation. “That’s not who we are. We are here to stay and we love the industry. We don’t know what else to do, and our passion is to keep growing and making things bigger. We’re always learning and finding new ways to put on better parties. I love doing it, otherwise, it would be too boring. If the shows were copy-paste, I wouldn’t be here.” 


elrow’s US tour is on now, taking them to Chicago, Las Vegas, and New York. As they build back from the forced hibernation during the pandemic, Juan says they will focus on Europe and the US before returning in force to South America and Asia next year. “The exciting part of the brand is that it keeps evolving. We keep adding new things, new music, new decorations, new collaborations with contemporary artists. We’re creative, and I’d never change that. I just want to make sure we deliver great things – better, crazier than ever before.” 

Follow Elrow on Soundcloud | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter 

Words by: Nick Taylor

Elrow Grows Bigger, Better, and More Absurd

Cera Khin

Born in Tunisia and based in Berlin, the sounds of Cera Khin are hard enough to bring the roof down. Take a look at her Instagram to get a feel for her vibe: each video of her live performances contains enough energy to make you feel like you’re right there on the dance floor. Described as a hardcore-fueled signature style, Cera Khin’s thunderous beats have brought her to a diverse roster of regions worldwide since her 2016 debut, including Portugal, Colombia, the UK, and even in the United States. Expect high BPM madness across the genre spectrum during Cera Khin’s thrilling performances, where she often closes the night with gabber and hardcore. You can catch Cera Khin all over the globe in 2022, including performances at Bang Face Weekender in May, Rotterdam Rave Festival in August, and more.

Fatima Hajji

Celebrated for her status as a globe-trotting techno maven, there’s no artist quite as passionate about her craft as Fatima Hajji. The Spanish producer, DJ, and label owner is a trailblazer and a triple-threat with two decades of work under her belt. With a penchant for fast, threatening techno beats, Fatima continues to climb the ranks of the industry and command a crowd for headlining shows. In 2016, Fatima established herself as a curator and host by launching her record label and events imprint, Silver M, which will see the release of Fatima’s debut full-length album and a handful of new singles on the way. Quickly becoming a household name in hard techno, Fatima Hajji proves time and time again that she’s capable of taking this sound to the next level.

Catch Fatima Hajji at Quantum, Brooklyn on June 25th, 2022. Tickets are avaialble now


Clara Cuvé

Representing the promising sounds of the new school, Clara Cuvé is well on her way to closing the world’s biggest hard techno stages. Well-respected by peers and supported by brands such as Drumcode and Boiler Room, German DJ Clara Cuvé is a master behind the decks: she’s built her reputation as a hard-hitting selector with a true love for the music, continuing to announce show after show alongside some of techno’s major players, including Richie Hawtin, Joseph Capriati, and more. As she dips her toes into production, you can check out her first track, “Control,” via R - Label Group before we see more heat from her.




Juliet Fox

Get familiar with Juliet Fox before she claims her spot at the top. Aussie-born and Berlin-based Juliet Fox has stolen the hearts of techno connoisseurs throughout the rise of her career, never afraid to crank up the energy to the max. Performing alongside trailblazers such as Nina Kraviz and Adam Beyer, Fox’s experimental flair flows through her DJ sets with ease and fierce energy. Beyond her mettle in the DJ booth, Juliet is an accomplished producer as well, with releases on Drumcode, Filth On Acid, Toolroom, and more trendsetting labels in the scene. Dancing across house and techno into fast, hard beats, Juliet Fox will take the headlining slot sooner than we think.




CC Luna

For the hard techno fans who feel the urge to go even harder, look no further than CC Luna. Self-describing her sound as transcending, dark, and fiery, Stockholm’s CC Luna has embraced the industrial and hardcore end of the techno spectrum throughout her budding career. She’s a powerhouse producer with countless releases under her belt on hard techno imprints such as Dolma Red, CANCELLED, Modular Soul, and more. Outside of the studio, CC Luna delivers DJ sets, not for the faint of heart — you can regularly catch her alongside acts like 999999999 and performing as a resident DJ for DI.FM Radio and KINK VIBE. Crowned Stockholm’s Producer of the Year at the 2019 Elly Awards, there’s a reason her catalog has caught global attention from techno enthusiasts.




Lesia Karz

Make way for the hellish sounds of Lesia Karz. The Belarusian producer and DJ kicked off her project in 2016 and has become a workhorse in the hard techno scene, unleashing her original music on her imprints Eclipse Recordings and Black Square Recordings alongside Gene Karz. Lesia’s output is nothing short of incredible — take a look at her storied catalog, and you’ll find countless hard-hitting anthems fit for a seance on the dance floor.




Ayako Mori

Best described as a Swiss army knife in the rave scene, Ayako Mori has been holding down the underground in Germany. This Japanese powerhouse is the owner of three different record labels: Physical Techno Recordings, Kalmary Records, and Unbekannt, all the while producing her own club weapons and performing DJ sets across Europe. A regular name on Beatport’s hard techno charts, there’s a reason why Mixmag Asia described Ayako Mori as one of the hardest working creators on the techno circuit. Her most recent release, a remix of Chemtrailz’s “To Be Right Now,” puts her pounding hard techno kicks on full display and is sure to be a secret weapon in the scene this summer.




Juliana Yamasaki

A tried and true hard techno leader, Juliana Yamasaki has built this movement since she began her DJ career in the early 2000s. By 2006, Juliana launched her label Descontrol Techno before throwing parties in São Paulo, paving the way for hard techno producers and DJs today. In 2022, Juliana continues to be a driving force in the hard techno scene in multiple regions: she’s the label head for DCRYPTED TECHNO and continues to churn out heart-stopping releases. To get a feel for her earth-shattering style, listen to the title track off her Burning Fire EP via Odd Recordings — it’s an instant earworm.

8 Hard Techno Artists You Should Know

Cody Chapman of artist agency Wasserman New York is on deck to curate this track of the week. Chapman began his career as an independent agent in Toronto. Then, Paul Morris recruited him to join the legendary AM Only agency. Last April, he joined Wasserman as part of Paradigm's merger with the company. He manages the bookings for artists like Fisher, Chris Lake, Miane, Will Clarke, Gordo, Mochakk, Tchami, and Malaa. 

His pick is Yeah But No's "Perished (Trikk Selva Tensa Mix)." Trikk is a pivotal artist on Dixon and Âme's Innervisions label. The Portuguese artist has had a steady stream of releases since 2011 while actively avoiding the pressures of social media. 

"This is my secret weapon of the moment," Chapman says about Trikk's slinky yet powerfully emotive remix. "For those times when darkness and beauty clash just right. Long after sunset, well before sunrise, when the weight and unease of the right track knocks anyone listening to the floor."


We think Cody hit the nail on the head here.

Track of The Week: Trikk Remixes 'Yeah But No' by Perished

Gray Area welcomes Jacob Merlin, Chief Marketing Officer of 1001 Tracklists to curate this week's Mix of the Week. 1001 Tracklists is the internet's number one source for track IDs and dance music song data. Lauded by heavyweights like Spinnin and Tomorrowland, their platforms include the artist focussed Songstats platform making it easy for DJs and producers to know who is playing their music and where.

Merlin obviously listens to a lot of DJ mixes and he's chosen a smoothed-out house mix from Johannesburg, South Africa DJ, Kasango to get your day started.

"One of my go-to artists every morning is Kasango. His 'House Bound' monthly mix series has been a long-standing favorite (don't miss episode 015!) and his sets are always a perfect blend encapsulating Afro, deep, and progressive house to get your day started right," Merlin told Gray Area.

"We've recently been teaming up with another South African artist VANCO, and doing some co-branded mixes with various artists under his ALGRA imprint," he continues. "ALGRA standing for Acceptable, Love, Gratitude, Respect & Acknowledgement. The series showcases some of the top talents coming out of the country. Kasango's new mix for the series dropped last week is a must listen and track selection is so on point!"

1001 Tracklists Curates Mix of the Week: Kasango 'House Bound'

Curtis Jones has adopted many aliases over the years. Also known as Cajmere, Green Velvet is the force behind the seminal labels Cajual and Relief. And while his illustrious history stretches back to the '90s, he continues to slap legendary dance floor bangers today. 

The history of this dance music icon is extensive. He first fell in love with house music's energetic culture and lifestyle while studying chemical engineering at the University of Illinois. He decided to change his path in 1991, midway through a graduate school program. He dropped out of school to pursue his dreams as a producer. When he discovered how hard it was to sign records to labels, he created Relief Records.

Green Velvet's unique sound is signature for blending 80s electronic funk, crafting soundscapes that take you on an electronic voyage over lyrical terrains. His records always harbor maximum dancefloor influence while showcasing his legendary prestige.

The early releases vaulted the eclectic Jones to an echelon of utmost praise and worldwide distinction. Moreover, his early triumphs shifted the spotlight of global dance music back to Chicago, forming a sound considered a contemporary staple of the iconic city. 

Outside of his pieces, both Cajual and Relief helped nurture and present names like DJ Sneak, Boo Williams, and Mark Grant to the world. In the process, he ignited the third wave of Chicago house music.

Going on 30 years strong, Green Velvet is still a forceful figure in house and techno as an impressionist artist from the get-go. He is still steadily touring globally, regularly releasing heaters and delivering it all with signature tongue-in-cheek shenanigans. 

His tunes stand the test of time with lyrics and rhythms that still slam on the dancefloor—dabbling with bass and flirting with minimal techno in his sets and productions. He displays versatility and a selective ear that have kept him current as he a creator and selector of that soulful, funky, distinctive imprint that Chicago house left on dance music (and on Green Velvet himself) back in the day.

Below we have thrown down the top 10 Green Velvet (and Cajmere) tracks, which are only the tip of the iceberg of this musical genius.  

Catch Green Velvet and friends at La La Land Miami Beach on March 26 at the National Hotel in Miami Beach, Fl. Tickets are on sale now. 




"Percolator"

Cajmere, Green Velvet's alter ego, released this iconic track in 1992 during the second wave of Chicago House in the 1990s revival. This vocal-heavy tune embraces a minimal and raw sound with wild bleeps and an ever-catchy chant. He features himself on the vocals, repetitive drum patterns, and silly synth sounds. This track paved the way for free frame structure, not traditional in house music, and trail blazed the stricter sounds of ghetto house.     







"Flash" 

"Flash" has claimed its spot in history as one of the most recognizable and celebrated tracks ever to hit the airwaves, never ceasing to ignite a frenzy of insanity on the dance floor. Since its release, it has become a staple with its simple and pulsating synths. This song takes the cake for one of the greatest techno songs to come out of the 90s and notably even in the entirety of genre history as a whole, making light on the 'dark' counterculture of the rave scene where all the bad little kiddies do the bad little things.   







"Voicemail" 

A follow-up to 1997's hilariously classic tune "Answering Message," "Voicemail" saw the return of Green Velvet's signature fictional characters (some that we may know too well), Taniqua, LeShaun, and Tyrone, all chasing Green Velvet with their selfish agendas. With Patrick Topping teaming up on the beats, the original beats of "Answering Message" are replaced with a stylish thumping house groove, topped off with a bumping bassline.  







"Preacher Man"

"Preacher Man" features a long-spoken word sample of Clarence LaVaughn Franklin (Aretha Franklin's father!) overlaid on a driving, tweaking, peaking, and freaked-out acid groove. Still to this day, having the ability to make people go mental. With lyrics that better (cynically) extoll the pure debauchery and freedom that a nightclub can provide. In 2012 the 1993 classic was re-released with a turned-up jackin' factor but sounded fresh after 20 years.







"Bigger than Prince (Hot Since 82 Remix)" 

"Bigger Than Prince" is a grower. With the tunes meaning "Walk around like you're bigger than Prince," presumably calling out artists with an inflated sense of self-worth. Musically, though, it's a clever pastiche of the Purple One. Full of mewling, minor-key synths, and drum machine hits, the funk groove is impressively simple, wily, and faintly ridiculous, which has always been Jones' sweet spot. 







"La La Land" 

The wonky classic 2001 single "La La Land" released on Relief repeats the "Flash" template with loopy—wild beats and a hook utilizing his signature vocals supplemented by Walter Phillips. Since its release, the chart-topping song epic lyrics were remixed multiple times and claimed multiple acclimates. The club sing-along masterpiece is simple and straightforward, touching on drug use (you know something about those little pills), which some of us know too well-- looking for the excitement of La La land and the afterparty at whatever rave we find ourselves. 







"Shake & Pop" 

This 2006 electronic track with supporting vocals by Walter Phillips is full of danceability and energy with its simple instrumental beat. This track strays away from the deeper tech-house side of Green Velvet's style, showcasing lighter, more pop-house notes. The hit has the same vocal gimmick and popping beat, just like any of his other tracks having the mastership to make your move.   







"Satisfy (feat. Dajae) [Tiger Stripes & Pleasurekraft Remix]" 

Tiger Stripes and Pleasurekraft revamp of Cajmere's "Satisfy" brings the original tune to new ranks of funky weirdness. The fire remix plays up the underlying tribal tones of the original mix and accentuates the bass. Moreover, Dajae's vocals in the remixed version are slightly distorted robotically, along with the reduplication of the eerie cooing sound. Nothing short of sexy dancefloor magic.   







"Calm Under Pressure (feat. Maceo Plex)" 

Teaming up with fellow heavyweight producer Maceo Plex for a new release on Cajual Records for the 2013 track "Calm Under Pressure." The collaboration may seem oddly suited as their styles are divergent. However, this track came out finessed and solid with an effortlessly definable Maceo Plex bassline and a certain polish and finesse more attributed to Cajmere's familiarity in the studio.







"Brighter Days (feat. Dajae) [Underground Goodies Remix]"

Another early Cajmere house tune with vocals by the queen Dajae is a straight-up anthem that has been the blueprint for a thousand house tunes since its release in 1992. Compiled of an essential bumpy 909, chopped up soulful vocal, finished off with a whole lot of cowbell, a quintessential Chicago house masterpiece inspiring shufflers and house steppers alike to destroy the dancefloor. This track is an oldie but goodie, done just right.

Green Velvet's 10 Best Tracks

When Kai Cant launched Abode in 2014, he had a vision for its future. Still, he surely did not expect to be putting on international festivals, hosting a record label, and maintaining a residency in Ibiza. At the time of its conception, Kai wished to create an event series where vibe and sound mattered more than big splashy headliners. So, he centered his events around a stable of solid resident DJs, each uniquely selected for their individuality. Jimmy Switch was the first to play his shows, followed by the legendary GW Harrison. Soon after, Will Taylor, Jack Swift, Devstar, and Ellie Cocks joined the roster. With sounds ranging from garage to tech house and techno, Abode began to build a name for themselves as one of the most unique parties out there. 

Just two years after the first Abode event, it became clear that a record label was needed. The brand had quickly built up equity amongst house music fans, and the event’s unique bookings led to a clamoring for more. 

With the release of the Round My House EP by Rob Cockerton in August of 2016, Abode Records was born. Since its inception, Abode Records has maintained a position as a true tastemaker in the world of electronic music. Primarily focusing on house and tech house sounds, Abode has regularly delivered dance floor smashing records while also consistently being at the forefront of identifying rising talent.

The label saw immediate success, which led to further growth on the event side of things for the Abode crew. As their profile grew, so did the budgets and scale of events. Within a few years, Abode began to regularly throw large, festival-style events, booking the hottest names in dance music while also maintaining a residency at the legendary Amnesia club in Ibiza. 

A part of the experiential travel and party platform, Pollen, Abode is expanding even further to other parts of the world. Their upcoming takeover in Las Vegas is the first time American audiences will have the opportunity to experience the madness of an Abode event. And with a lineup that includes the legendary Abode residents and mainstays on the festival scene like Skream, Fat Boy Slim, Joel Corry, Claptone, Sonny Fodera, Solardo, and Jamie Jones.

We’ve gathered a selection of Abode’s finest house bops to get you primed and ready for a weekend in Sin City with the crew.




GW Harrison - When House Takes A Journey

“When house takes a journey, from jack, Chicago, to acid house….” Any true house music devotee now knows the iconic line of GW Harrison’s track. The Abode resident made his imprint on the label with this legendary tech house burner, layering a scintillating vocal hook over a tech house beat.  







Pass The Bottle - Pax

Released in 2019, “Pass the Bottle” combines soulful vocals with Pax’s signature low-end bassline. The track was a highlight for Pax in what was a career year, another signifier of Abode’s ability to identify rising talent. 







Will Clarke - Tricky

Will Clarke is now firmly cemented in the world of techno after completing a masterful transition out of funky tech house. However, the switch only began a few years ago. 2019 saw WIll take small steps into experimenting with techno. “Tricky” was one of the first clues that he was experimenting with a new sound, implementing a hollow driving bass sound alongside a vicious build-up. 





Ellie Cocks - Like Tupac (Josh Butler Remix) 

Ellie Cocks, one of Abode’s first residents, is a regular on the label. She typically brings her unique brand of banging techno, but this Josh Butler remix of her track takes it in a completely different direction. Reminiscent of the Josh Butler sound, the remix features vibey tech house drum patterns, creating a perfect late-night track. 







Caal, Baum - Chinese GIrl (Eskuche Remix)

Eskuche made a name for himself as a master remixer. Here, he layers a thick bouncing bassline over the repeating vocal sample. “Ima just do my thing” rings back and forth through your ears as the track becomes increasingly intoxicating. The slippery acid synth line is the perfect icing on the cake, perfect for the big room party and the intimate club.  





Eli Brown - Get it Together 

Eli Brown is known for bringing higher BPM and a bit of that bangin’ warehouse energy to the world of tech house. That said, his offering on Abode is a more typical tech house offering, containing punchy vocal samples with a high energy build leading into a low-end drop. 







Cozzy D - The Upside Down (Mark Knight Remix)

Anytime Mark Knight pops up as a remixer, one must listen. So he naturally does not disappoint with his remix of “The Upside Down.” High energy house music at its finest, Mark Knight brings his soulful piano-laced sound to the track, creating a proper hands in the air and a smile on faces vibe.







Franky Rizardo - The Block

Franky Rizardo’s music knows no boundaries. He has often crossed genres throughout his career, although this early entry into Abode Records represents a more minimal tech house approach. Smooth drum patterns accompany a chopped-up vocal sample to create a straight groover. 







Sonny Fodera, Flash 89 - The System

In 2018, Abode records struck gold with this Sonny Fodera collab with fellow Aussie Flash 89. Another example of their prime talent spotting, the label inked Sonny to a track right as he was blowing up across stages worldwide. This is a proper tech house banger, bringing Sonny’s signature big room sound uniquely. 




Amine Edge & Dance, Clyde P - Make it Mine 

Perpetual tastemakers Amine Edge & Dance and Clyde P collaborate for a masterful release on Abode Records. Showcasing the very best in tech house, this track is a masterclass in rhythm. Synth and vocal stabs hit all the right notes while a bassline as stiff as a strong drink maintains the core.




We put all of these tunes together on one epic playlist. Check it out.

The Very Best of Abode Records

Ultra Music Festival will make its highly-awaited return to its Bayfront Park home right in the heart of downtown Miami from March 25-27. As one of the most internationally recognized festivals today, Ultra never ceases to amaze attendees with its extravagant, cutting-edge stage and production design year after year, especially regarding their RESISTANCE underground concept. 

Following the success of RESISTANCE Island back in 2019 at Virginia Key, the festival's monumental techno brand is back at it this year with a brand-new format tailored specially for its grand return to the picturesque Bayfront Park. This year's RESISTANCE layout will be located on the northern part of the scenic festival grounds and will include the renowned Carl Cox Megastructure and the debut of The Cove.

 This year, RESISTANCE Miami has curated one of the most star-studded lineups full of house and techno's finest to date, and there are a few select acts on the roster you won't want to miss out on. Industry mainstays and festival-goers alike travel from all over the world to witness the beauty of Miami Music Week and Ultra Music Festival every year. These standout RESISTANCE performers are ecstatic to reveal their exceptional talents to the festival's sea of electronic music lovers. 

 

Carl Cox Debuts His New Hybrid Live Three-hour Performance

Since premiering his Carl Cox & Friends Arena at Ultra back in 2004 and helping establish the RESISTANCE concept over the years, Carl Cox has prospered into a legendary UMF staple. Throughout the years, he's been mesmerizing attendees with his exemplary techno sounds and avant-garde stage designs at the esteemed festival, and this year won't be much different. 

While the internationally acclaimed producer is pretty much always expected to play at UMF, this year, he's premiering a distinguished Hybrid Live three-hour set for the first time. A concept everyone's been raging about since the news dropped. 

Following his Friday night DJ appearance at the Megastructure stage, you can find him back in the same spot on Saturday night as he closes out the evening with this one-of-a-kind live production that's bound to make Ultra Music Festival history. Trust us. This is a set you won't want to skip.

 

Italian Composer and Multi-instrumentalist Giorgia Angiuli

Italian-born techno superstar Giorgia Angiuli is an exceptional musician, composer, and multi-instrumentalist who's been crushing the game lately. Intrigued by all things electronic music from a young age, she's blossomed into a genuine prodigy of live instrumentation and alluring performer by exposing her unparalleled talents to music lovers throughout her music career.

Aside from her spectacular musical sensibilities, she's phenomenal at intertwining a wide array of instruments and synths ranging everywhere from keyboards to saxophones into her live sets. Her exceptionally dazzling sounds are the perfect fit for a RESISTANCE performance. Giorgia Angiuli has never been and will never be an ordinary musician, and this upcoming Ultra performance will only demonstrate that notion further.

You can also catch Giorgia Angiuli at the Descend Pool Paty - Wednesday March 23, 2022 at The National Hotel.

 

Filth On Acid Label Head Reinier Zonneveld

Reinier Zonneveld never ceases to amaze fans with his electrifying, techno-driven melodies during each of his performances. The self-taught Dutch musician's devotion to music production and experimenting with various techniques to curate a matchless live performance concept was the best decision he could've ever made for himself. Inspired by all things music and a few life-changing warehouse rave experiences, he expresses his two passions flawlessly through every note. 

Throughout his career, prodigious artists like Carl Cox, Riche Hawtin, and Moby recognized his unique approach to electronic music. He is a master intertwining deep and melodic tones with heart rate-inducing acid techno in a live setting. His artistic vision is profound, leading producers like HI-LO, CamelPhat, Carl Cox, and Sharam to collaborate on his Filth On Acid record label. It speaks volumes that he is such a sought-after producer—seeping across genre lines and working with artists like Patrick Topping, Armin van Buuren, and Ferry Corsten.

Zonneveld's musical talent truly shines through his captivating live performances, which you'll luckily get to see for yourself at the Megastructure on day three of the festival. 

 

Awesome Soundwave Label Resident Christopher Coe  

Distinguished techno producer and Awesome Soundwave label co-owner Christopher Coe continues to permeate the scene with his forward-thinking mentality and exemplary artistic vision. From the moment he and Carl Cox crossed paths, Carl just knew that he was unique and had something significant to bring to the table. After DJing for years, he decided to set his DJ career aside and focus entirely on performing live.

Coe always felt this burning desire to take his performances to a whole new level and create something the world had never seen before, and he did precisely that with Awesome Soundwave alongside Carl Cox. Their intention for the imprint was to support and release live electronic artists' music all in one place as the concept of live electronic performances continued to flourish. He'll completely blow Ultra attendees away with his intriguing (and typically improvised) live sounds on Sunday evening of the RESISTANCE production. 

 

 

 

 

Sought After Berlin-based Mixing Engineer Hannes Bieger 

Profound musicality and brilliant technical ability have made Berlin-based producer, sound engineer, and live instrumentalist Hannes Bieger one of techno's most in-demand artists. He's spent over a decade exploring his many talents in the studio and out, crafting a beautiful and 

impeccably curated sound. His deep-rooted love for music and the realization of how powerful and moving it can be has gotten him to where he is today. 

Also a recognizable artist on the Awesome Soundwave roster, Bieger showcases his inimitable adherence to sound design through each relentless beat and mind-bending record. While he is a veteran DJ, he prefers to build breathtaking live sets led by top-tier analog synth and drum machines. No matter where in the world he resides, his performances will always be top-notch, and his upcoming live RESISTANCE performance alongside his Awesome Soundwave peers is bound to be nothing short of legendary. 

 

Buzzing Prodigy Moritz Hofbauer 

This year, RESISTANCE Miami is proud to present Boris Brejcha's FCKNG SERIOUS label stage takeover over at The Cove on Friday of the festival, a label which buzzing prodigy Moritz Hofbauer is a tremendous part of. The German-born musician has been enamored by all things music since his childhood. His ambition and curiosity led him to specifically discover a passion for deep house and melodic techno. 

Aside from being one of the newest members of the FCKNG SERIOUS family, Hofbauer has remixed tracks for artists like Township Rebellion, Ben Böhmer, and Nils Hoffmann, all who have acknowledged his burgeoning sound wholeheartedly. Now that he's established himself within the club and festival scene across Europe, the time has come for him to bring his talents to Miami alongside label mates Ann Clue, Deniz Bul, and imprint leader Boris Brejcha himself to kick day one of RESISTANCE on a high note.

Ultra's Resistance Stages Are More Than DJs

Canadian brothers TWINNS and Siberian native MARE have been collaborating on saucy house gems since 2020. But their latest offering on the Los Angeles-based Ghetto Ghetto label is some of their naughtiest dirty house yet.

Stark and moody "Body" is a dark house gem that's all thumping drums and grinding 808s. Accentuated by thick horn stabs and left-field sound design, the peak hour club jam is just the latest example of how they can twist and turn minimal elements at their will.

Identical twin brothers Kevin and Chris Delgado started their career on Deorro's Panda Funk Records in 2015. Their sound has since evolved into groovier, more club-friendly territory earning them sync deals with MTV and over 10 million streams worldwide.

MARE, too began his career in the big room realm earning support from big names like David Guetta, Afrojack, and Tchami. However, the pandemic gave him a fresh perspective on his sound, and MARE emerged with a decidedly housier sound.

Track of the Week: Dark and Bouncy 'Body' by Twinns & Mare

To call Spanish hard techno artist Fatima Hajji a rising talent would be inaccurate. She’s been serving up blistering hard techno to European audiences for two decades. Reinjecting techno with the raw hardcore rhythms of rave, the multi-label boss, composer, and animal lover has become a leader in pushing the techno movement forward.

Her performance for Wonderland Festival 2021 in Zaandam, Netherlands, distills her sound over 75 minutes of grinding hardcore beats. Some of the high moments? With energy like this, they are all high points but dropping an exclusive edit of “A Drug From God” by Chris Lake and NLP over a 135 BPM acid beat is the kind of moment that you wish you could experience live.

There’s a reason a Hajji is one of the most booked DJs on the techno circuit. She’s been honing her DJ skills since 16 when she surprised her friends and family with her first DJ gig at a Madrid club. Even then, her skills as a selector were finely tuned. She easily won the DJ contest and, after two years, was a figurehead in her city. 

These days you can’t name a lauded European festival or venue she hasn’t played. From Awakenings to Tomorrowland, Berghain to Privilege and Eden, every time she steps up to the decks, she emits trademark energy, joy, and confidence that was even apparent 20 years ago.

Catch Fatima Hajji live at Quantum, Brooklyn on June 25th. Tickets are available now.

Set of the Week: Brutal Techno from Fatima Hajji

We're pleased to welcome Will Clarke to curate our Track of The Week. A longtime friend of Gray Area, his body of work speaks for itself. Over the last two years, the veteran DJ and producer has built his label All We Have Is Now into a powerhouse techno imprint with a clearly defined sound. Clarke told Gray Area, "I'm trying to write songs that have a bit of a meaning." He continues that mission with "Dale" by Dubesque, the first release from the extended family of All We Have is Now artists.

"I have been in touch with Dubesque for just over three years now. I discovered his music and was introduced to him from Dense & Pika's label Kneaded Pains on which we shared a compilation release together. Ever since then I always play his records in my sets and we would constantly send each other records asking for feedback or pretty much fan boying over each others music," Clarke said about the Austrian producer. 

Dubesque is a decorated producer. He spent years as a touring DJ before hanging things up in 2014 to spend time with his family. He's produced under various aliases and worked behind the scenes as a ghost producer, composer, and sound designer. His music has exploded with releases on Chris Lake's Black Book, Soilardo's Sola, and Born Dirty's Way Way in recent years.

Clarke continues, "One of those records he sent me was a track called 'Dale.' To cut a long story short I started All We Have Is Now in 2020 and from the outset I always wanted to sign other artists to the label. However before I signed any artists I first wanted to work out how to actually run a label so I used my own music as a test subject. We are now two years in to All We Have Is Now and it now feels like the right time to start to building a family of artists. Dubesque told me that 'Dale' was still available so it just felt right that this was the one. So I'd like to welcome Dubesque to the All We Have Is Now family and I'd like to introduce 'Dale' as the first signed track on the label! Enjoy."

Will Clarke Curates Track of The Week: Dubesque - 'Dale'

We tapped forward-thinking Femme House founder LP Giobbi for this Mix of the Week, a vibrant live set from DJ Tennis for Sunday Sunday. With fresh tunes, driving basslines, and groovy beats, this two-parter is perfect for any day of the week. 

“DJ Tennis is one of my favorite producers and DJs and has become a true mentor of mine in this industry. I always learn something new about DJing after attending a Tennis show so getting an eight hour set is like a full course of knowledge! Even though I didn’t get to attend this particular party, you can feel the energy shifts in the dancefloor throughout the day based on the mix and are immediately transported to a joyous flowing dancefloor!” said the producer-activist about the Italian producer.

Recorded live at Sunday Sunday, Manfredi Romano, aka DJ Tennis, perfectly encapsulates the Life and Death label founder’s range within electronic music production and DJing. Sets by DJ Tennis often carry an intimate, warm feel to them. And with over two decades of experience to draw from, this mix from DJ Tennis includes elements of post-rock, synth-heavy electronic cuts, and plenty of good vibes.

Sunday Sunday is a venue in Mexico City notorious for its consistently vivacious crowds and Sunday Funday energy. The alfresco rooftop party is only steps away from the capital city’s vibrant Downtown area and only hosts the freshest regional and local acts. Check out more live mixes on Sunday Sunday’s Soundcloud.

LP Giobbi Curates Mix of The Week: DJ Tennis

From Frankie Knuckles’ first live iterations of house music in Chicago’s warehouses, to the crafting of techno by Detroit’s Belleville Three, the origins of dance music are undeniably Black. Yet, of the current top 5 performing Beatport tracks, not one is released on a
Black-owned label. 

The white appropriation of Black genres, from jazz to hip-hop and beyond, on an institutional level, is no new issue. The erasure of Black people specifically from house, techno, and everything in between is however a largely ignored and ever-increasing phenomenon, driven by an, often willful, generational ignorance of the history of dance music. 

This is not to say that dance music should be halted in its natural evolution, or that dance music should not be produced by people not identifying as Black. Rather the existence and
platforming of non-Black dance music should not come at the cost of detracting these platforms from the marginalized communities that birthed it. Supporting Black-owned labels encourages a positive trickle-down effect, besides directing funds where they are most needed, whereby it directly supports the power of Black artists to platform and shape the future of dance music.   

Cajual Records 

Distributing various forms of beats, this label has been particularly iconic in its ownership of some of the notorious sounds from Chicago, where it is based. The label, which is close to celebrating its 30th anniversary, is owned by Curtis Jones, known also as Green
Velvet or Cajmere. The label stood out amongst other major labels of its time, namely Trax and DJ International, for its fair treatment of artists and community focus. Cajual features tracks by some of dance music’s most influential shapers, including the late Paul Johnson and Glenn Underground.

Apron Records

Julien Steven, the London DJ once known as FunkinEven, wears a multitude of hats
amongst which owner of Apron Records label. Having become somewhat of a ‘cult’
electronic phenomenon, the label features avantgarde sounds, such as Shanti Celeste’s
trippy techno and Space Ghost’s astral house. Apron Record’s latest release showcases a different side of the experimental label, with the mellow funk, soul, and house of Jarren’s album Antera. 

 





Sound Signature

Founded in 90s Detroit, this label is a must-listen for those dedicated to getting back to the origins of house music. Label-owner and DJ/ producer, Theo Parrish, is vocal in his championing of Black sounds and these come to light on his label where Detroit Techno meets jazz, disco, and Chicago house. A particular highlight of the label are Leron
Carson’s tracks released on Sound Signature between 2001 and 2021, these were in fact recorded in the late 80s, while the mysterious, to this day unknown, figure of Leron was still a teenager. 

 





Mahogani Music

Mahogani Music is another longstanding Detroit label. Alongside staying true to its geographical origins with hearty techno, this groundbreaking label also features classic house, disco and experimental R&B. Mahogani Music was founded by the legendary Moodymann, that is Kenny Dixon Jr, who has been one of the greatest advocates of keeping house and techno true to its origins, especially with regards to platforming
Black artists. Artists include Amp Fiddler, Flo Real, and Andrés.





Mother’s Finest

A discussion of dance music labels cannot forgo a mention of Berlin. Once a party held in the city’s infamous Griessmuehle, Mother’s Finest was launched by the party’s founder, Franklin de Costa, as a label in 2020. The label inaugurated its launch with a 15-track compilation, bringing breaks, dubstep, and ambient to a very Berlin techno backdrop. A later release focuses on the frantic energy and vocals that Nasty King Curl has to offer.





Deep Root Records

Based in New York city, this label was founded by Haitian-born Francis Mercier
and Ajamu Kambon. Releasing an eclectic mix of deep house and afro house, Deep Root has garnered support from some of the dance music industry’s most influential names, including Pete Tong, Black Coffee, and Blond:ish. Besides hosting the tracks of house music legends like Roland Clark and Rowetta, the label platforms the releases of up-and-coming talent from around the world, such as Brazil’s REFEL and Kenya’s Idd Aziz.





Founders of Filth

Prominent member of the second wave of Chicago house, Felix da Housecat, founded this label in 2017, in Montreal. He announced the launch of the label as “an imprint where no rules apply” and has stayed true to the depiction, releasing a steady stream of experimental house and electroclash. The label has released many of Felix da Housecat’s own masterpieces, often alongside equally adventurous artists such as Röyksopp and Chris Trucher. 

 





Boukan Records

Cergy-based Boukan Records is run by Bamao Yendé, resident at France’s Rinse and central figure to France’s modern dance floors. The label merges UK garage, breakbeat, kuduro, batida, and house, bringing signature warmth to the dancefloor. Don’t miss the label’s popular “Tumba Tic Tac” track, from Amor Satyr, a Brazilian-French collective combining Afro Beats and UK Jackin’. 

 





Purveyor Underground

This Toronto based label is headed up by Demuir, an internationally touring DJ at the forefront of jackin’ house sounds and committed to re-politicising house music. Purveyor Underground is at the heart of this mission: its dotted logo is a direct nod to the underground railroad, where quilts were hung from windows to aid slaves to freedom. With tracks featuring Gettoblaster, Missy, Darren Marshall, Phil Weeks, and more, the label offers a riveting education in house.






 


Kiwi Rekords

Conducta, real name Collins Nemi, has a distinct focus on moving sound forward, rather
than reminiscing the past or falling into electronic purism. This was his motivation founding UK-based garage label, Kiwi Rekords. Founded in 2019, the label has already proved immensely successful, tapping into a modern British sound with feel-good, high-energy releases from the likes of Sammy Virji, Oppidan, Germi, and many more.

10 Black Owned Dance Music Labels You Should Know

A pivotal moment in central and Eastern European geopolitics, the fall of the Berlin Wall radically impacted the city overnight. East and West Berlin, formerly divided physically and bureaucratically by the wall, were suddenly reunited thanks to mounting pressure and a misread press statement. Beethoven's Ninth Symphony "Ode to Joy," was played throughout the emotional city, chosen because of its poignant message:

"We enter your sanctuary infected with fire. Your magic power unites again those whom earthly customs have forcibly separated. All men will be brothers again under your gentle wing."

Naturally, the transition to living outside the GDR was not as smooth or idealistic as many had hoped. East Berliners faced high unemployment rates for the first time and found themselves lacking an education in the advances of the Western world over their 28 years of separation.

"They wore clothes from another era, drove Trabants and emptied supermarkets. They particularly wanted to buy video cameras and bananas." Aldo, a Berlin immigrant, remembers.

Nonetheless, it was somewhat the shambolic chaos of the sudden change that allowed for the creation of the spaces where East and West Berliners would not only co-exist as equals but co-create the new Berlin's legacy: techno. In fact, the fall of the wall and subsequent dissolution of GDR-controlled companies gave way to a host of disused warehouses and industrial spaces. Coupled with the legal uncertainty of a political grey area, these spaces were quickly claimed as transitory, pop-up club nights. Early iterations of the most influential techno spaces all had their origins here, including Berghain, Tresor, and E-Werk.

"A host of abandoned spaces opened up in East Berlin, spaces that would become crucial to the new Berlin." states Alessandro, who was working in Berlin TV during the 90s. "These spaces became a genesis for trendy places in Berlin. It all happened very quickly. Many projects were born in that time, purely because of the free spaces."


Yet the real driving current of Berlin's techno renaissance was the unleashed desire of East Berliners to undo years of repression. During the strict cultural canvas of the GDR, an East Berliner would have been lucky to receive the occasional American record as contraband. Their radios were censored, and a few enthusiastic fans of electronic music described walking beside the wall to attempt to pick up foreign signals. Now, they feasted on the west's rich collection of contemporary music, searching for the hardest sounds possible to combat the sensory censorship of the previous years. 

They also came into contact with West Berlin's notoriously alternative population. A haven to draft dodgers, this suspended city was also a punk paradise and the former residence of self-proclaimed punk Godfather, Iggy Pop. In addition, West Berliners celebrated Homosexuality with a yearly Gay Pride Parade, or CSD, since 1979. And West Berlin's inhabitants enjoyed a quasi-bohemian lifestyle, with no curfew on bars and clubs since 1949 - both aspects that would later be crucial to the city's dance music industry. With that, East and West Berliners came together almost like a ticking techno bomb with restless energy for harder sounds and wilder parties, with strong parallels to the Black origins of techno in Detroit: freedom being the crucial denominator. 

Detroit was not the only precursor to Berlin's techno scene. Germany itself boasted a rich background in electronic music. Kraftwerk was already producing computerized, experimental sounds back when Detroit was still producing cars: these four German-come-robot-librarians were responsible for the 1974 worldwide hit "Autobahn." 

Frankfurt had subsequently reached the forefront of electronic music in the 80s, and even Dusseldorf's DAF championed the electro-punk scene. Yet, the new sound of Berlin was not a continuation of this but undeniably a new creation born of the city's new unity. It was apocalyptic, with unlit bunkers, stark sounds, and fashion creating an ominous end-of-the-world atmosphere. Cyberspace, held at the second UFO venue - an abandoned Penny supermarket in Schöneberg - was an early rendition of this apocalyptic techno. Tekknozid did the same, albeit in the East itself.

"The first time I accidentally discovered techno music, a friend of mine took me to Tresor. Neil Landstrumm was playing. Before this, I had never heard techno. Wow! This was different. It just took me." states Marat, who went on to DJ at Tresor from the early 2000s.

Marat playing his first gig at Tresor.

Perhaps key to the influx of Berlin's techno tourists was the Love Parade. Founded by DJ Dr. Motte as a peaceful dance protest for 'Friede, Freude, Eierkuchen' (Peace, Joy, Pancakes) in 1989, the event ballooned after the fall of the wall attracting as many as 1.5 million ravers in 1999. 

Indeed, by the late 90s, Berlin's techno parties had become a thriving tourism industry and had changed the city for good. Illegal parties grew into legally-established nightclubs and became, to differing extents, commercialized. Every Berliner's favorite phrase that "Berlin is not as it used to be," is a warranted complaint in the face of the rising costs of a city where artists could once live and work almost for free.

"You had the feeling that there is a place for everyone," Marat remembers. "Of course, the future taught us that that's not true, what with gentrification and so on. But here's the fun part: the party's still not over."

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