Gem And Jam 2020 Boasts Big-Time Lineup And So Much More

An undeniable part of the transformation is reflection. Feeling realigned after coming off a reflective 1-year hiatus, curators behind Gem and Jam have announced its return to Pima County Fairgrounds in Tucson, AZ during the weekend of January 31st – February 2nd nd of 2020. After rapidly blossoming for over a decade, Gem and Jam is set to return bigger and better than ever before. The music and arts festival is reforming to help bring in the new decade with a strong and focused vision on how to celebrate mineral formations in unison with aural sensations and positive vibrations.

The festival has stepped back into the festival circuit in a big way with a prime Gem and Jam 2020 lineup including Tipper, Big Gigantic, The Floozies, Manic Focus, Dirtwire, Christian Martin, RYBO, Lubelski, Desert Dwellers and many others. Great music combined with personal enrichment workshops in a serene desert location makes it obvious why this festival has become an underground sensation.

Here are 10 things to expect from the return of the best transformational festival that is Gem and Jam:

Location

Located under an hour southeast from Tucson, the grounds has much more than sand and dust. Held inside the Pima County Fairgrounds, this sprawling piece of land makes for an ideal festival locale. Mesquite, cacti and grass are sprinkled about the landscape with a magnificent mountain range running parallel in the distance. Nothing short of a Wild West paradise.

Weather

Beat those wintertime blues when you arrive at Gem and Jam. Located in the sunny Arizona desert helps keep temperatures at a steady and comfortable warmth during the day before easing into a brisk but bearable evening musk. Perfect camping weather prime for pristine sunset views.

Camping

A recent and well-received addition to the Gem and Jam experience. By introducing a multitude of camping options over the past few years, the festival has opened the doors for many who thought a trip to the desert was impossible. Being offered this year are tent and RV camping as well as affordable travel package options.

Food/Vendors

Stay energized over the weekend with a tasty variety of food and drink choices. The festival has always been conscious of those with different dietary needs by providing everything from vegan to gluten-free and dairy-free options. Gem and Jam also features a plethora of heady crafts, high-end art and jewelry which can be partially accredited to the Tucson Gem Show going on that same weekend.

Gem Show

The biggest gem show in the world will be on full display the same weekend as the music festival. The Tucson Gem, Mineral and Fossil Showcase (aka The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show)  is a two-week event where some of the finest gemstones, rare minerals and extraordinary fossils are on display throughout the city of Tucson. Originally created as an after-party outlet for the gem show, Gem and Jam grew its own identity continuing to help commemorate these amazing natural phenomena through music and community.

Vibes

An intimate setting makes for an easy flowing weekend of experiences. The festival origins trace back to small musical gatherings outside of the Gem Show featuring a collection of creative types, gem vendors and Arizona locals. Despite its rising national success, Gem and Jam has always been able to maintain a cozy, welcoming attitude since its inception. A place where the kindness is obvious and strong positivity flows. Gem and Jam is truly a cultural treasure.

Local Roots

The local community plays a huge part in what this festival has become. That includes the often- overlooked music scene in and around the Tucson/Phoenix area. Each year Gem and Jam does a great job showcasing its local flavor. While the headliners might be the attention grabber, do not overlook the amazing local acts including The Bennu, Endoplasmic, M-Q and Safi’s Lab.

Workshops

When not mesmerized by music, wander the grounds to find several workshop spaces and enlightening lectures. These daytime activities look to engage the festival goer on a deeper level of awareness. In recent years activities included yoga and dance groups, breathing exercises, drum circles, sustainability presentations and more.

Visual Arts

By adding top tier visual and performance, Gem and Jam transforms from music festival to multi-sensory extravaganza. Expect frequent fire spinning during those chilly evenings alongside astonishing aerials and flow throughout the weekend. Top tier painters will be located nearby the stages creating in the moment masterpieces. While no names have been announced yet, art alumni include Chris Dyer, Chris Bohlin and Alex Grey to name a few.

Lineup

Gem and Jam did not rise in recognition through community, artwork and gemstones alone. The promoter’s ability to consistently curate a smashing lineup year after year has captured the attention of music lovers nationwide. While the music has maintained predominately electronic, there is something at this festival for everyone to listen and love. This year’s edition includes the sonic turntablism of Tipper, funk from Big Gigantic, and a House music takeover from the Desert Hearts crew. Those looking for more instrumentation will be happy to see the Bluegrass wonder boy Billy Strings, rising Jam twang rockers Twiddle, and a special TH3 set which includes members of The String Cheese Incident and The Floozies.

Gem and Jam Tickets are on sale now for this one of a kind Desert Festival oasis. Weekend passes are cheaper than most of its festival counterparts at the current tier of $159 plus tax and fees. Get the full experience and obtain a car camping pass for just $150 more.

GEM AND JAM 2020 TICKETS FOR SALE TUCSON, AZ

Breakaway Music Festival Stops in Columbus for a Multi-Genre Extravaganza

Ohio welcomes the return of Breakaway Music Festival on August 23^rd and 24^th to MAPFRE Stadium. Continuing the trend of booking diverse top-notch talent, the 2019 Columbus edition features Dubstep powerhouse Bassnectar, platinum selling Hip-Hop artist Future, young Chicago-based electronic duo Louis the Child and renowned Atlanta rapper Young Thug.

The event is hosted by one of Ohio’s (and the Nation’s) fastest growing promotion companies, Prime Social Group. Breakaway Music Festival is Prime Social Group’s greatest project in recent years. The multi-city event has seen massive success and continues its expansion across the country.

The multi-genre festival is currently scheduled to take over three other cities besides Columbus this year including Grand Rapids, Charlotte and Nashville. The Breakaway series hosted approximately 65,000 attendees last year and looks to inflate that footprint.

Additional artists throwing down on the Columbus edition include Troyboi, Matoma, Blackbear, Mersiv, Wax Motif, AC Slater, Chet Porter and many more. Blending both mainstream appeal and an underground sound in the realms of Rap and EDM makes Breakaway Festival a certain Summer hotspot.

In addition to a genre-blending lineup, Breakaway will host a Silent Disco, local food trucks and excellent VIP options. Single Day GA tickets are on sale now for only $50 with 2-day wristbands for $90. Upgrade passes with a VIP or a VIP Table to get the ultimate experience. Don’t miss out the chance to enjoy one of the fastest growing festivals in the country!

Phoenix Lights Festival Lands for Successful Fifth Anniversary

For the 5th consecutive year, an ominous series of lights hovered over a crater sized piece of land at Rawhide Event Center in Chandler, AZ during the first weekend of April. These flashing lights did not come from the sky, instead they were shining out from the weekend-long extraterrestrial themed rave during Phoenix Lights Festival. Armed with an out-of-this-world production, a powerful musical selection and alien themed everything, Phoenix Lights unleashed an amazingly unique festival experience.

This year’s musical arsenal featured top names in the realms of Trance, House and Dubstep. Superstar producers including Kaskade, Excision, Claude VonStroke, Griz and more were recruited for the 2019 edition. The invasion lasted two full nights across four stages. These stages were appropriately themed as The Mothership, Invasion, The Colony and The Fallout. Each area contained a different, yet fitting blend of both music and environment. Organized by the masterminds at Relentless Beats, Phoenix Lights has become the biggest EDM event in Arizona since its inception in 2015.

Photo: Joshua Krol

After arriving at the Rawhide asphalt parking lot attendees shifted to the festival grounds filled with desert rocks and sand. It felt like moving to another planet entirely. Arrivals suited up in outer outer space attire, bright colors and galactic glitter then began to cluster around the otherworldly noises protruding from every direction. Once through the security portal, humans were greeted with a monstrous main stage. Shaped like a giant alien aircraft, The Mothership was home to some of the most memorable sets of the weekend.

Surrounded by the only patch of grass in the festival, the stage mimicked a giant UFO. Complete with numerous projection screens and a slew of laser beams, The Mothership contained the weekend headliners. As night started to fall on day one, a rare DJ set from the Trap beat-master Mustard had the crowd dancing wildly. Next, veteran electronic funk duo Big Gigantic hypnotized with psychedelic visuals while keeping the hype alive before Excision closed out the night with his brand of Earth-shattering Dubstep.

Photo: Joshua Krol

The Mothership landed on the second day with an extensive attack of music blocks starting with First Encounters DJ competition winner Bigstabes. A Hardstyle frenzy from Yulton was followed by an epic set from rising EDM star San Holo who used his guitar at times to signal to the skies. As darkness began to rein, black-masked Malaa suddenly appeared on the stage armed with his Pardon My French approach to modern House music. After about an hour, Malaa left the stage before the lights began to dim again.

Not before long, a voice could be heard coming through the speakers. A tall, skinny, curly haired figure stood on top of the DJ table and began to rap. It was no alien as the lyricist later proclaimed himself as Griz before jumping down behind the decks and unloading an explosion of positivity fueled Future Funk. Smiles were plastered on the faces of about every soul in the crowd by the time the final Mothership headliner stepped up. “I just wanna have some fun.” This was the opening statement as dance music major Kaskade spun a progressive and euphoric set that transcended the entire crowd into a State of Trance.

Photo: Joshua Krol

For those who didn’t get immediately get abducted by The Mothership headed to the adjacent corner of the grounds to take part in the Invasion. A smaller alien aircraft crash landed under a big white tent next to the main stage. This aircraft was transformed into a smaller stage which set free a plethora of versatile Bass music. The Invasion Stage, as it was called, welcomed Dubstep staples He$h, Dirt Monkey and a rowdy B2B with Squnto and Subtronics on the first day.

On Saturday, the Invasion included young and hungry EDM adolescents Minesweepa, Throttle and Decadon who were all equipped bass blasts that could have been mistaken for an asteroid shower. Strobe lights and waving lasers welcomed growing heavy hitters Must Die! and Svdden Death before completing the low-end bombardment with the festival’s own surgeon of Bass, Doctor P.

Photo: Joshua Krol

On the back side of the land a consistent throb could be heard throughout the entire weekend. This rhythmic pumping came from The Colony Stage. A House music oasis that included a 360-style stage setup with lush fake grass which made the perfect place for humans to congregate and get lost in the music.

Transmissions from the Dirtybird alliance included sets from Shiba San, Sage Armstrong, J. Phlip, as well as an absolute stellar closing set from the Bird Boss, Claude VonStroke. Journeymen Sasha, Jeremy Olander and Lane 8 also added to the intergalactic vibes inside The Colony.

Photo: Joshua Krol

All the space travel could be a bit overwhelming. Fortunately, Phoenix Lights Festival included some additional rest stops for explorers looking to escape the music for a moment. Groups linked up with their crews at the fire-spewing Mona Lisa before browsing the abundance of alien themed paintings and illumination stations. A few giant steps over was the iheartraves lounge where space travelers could relax on a couch or get acquainted with some life-size robotic sculptures.

Placed directly in the middle of all the action was the smallest stage. The Fallout was a glowing army truck turned art car where aspiring newcomers looked to make an impression on the unexpecting festival goers. Seemingly purposefully located in the cross hairs of each of the stage, it was easy to vanish into the black hole of The Fallout with its monster sound system and diverse mixture of electronic genres.

Photo: Joshua Krol

While the atmosphere was on point, Phoenix Lights Festival made sure to include even more to the overall experience. Everything from cocktail specials to VIP upgrades and even meet and greet opportunities were provided. It was obvious organizers went above and beyond to present a next level event.

It was a great opportunity to take part in a niche festival literally in its own world. Phoenix Lights fifth invasion of the Arizona desert was a complete success. We are certainly looking forward to seeing The Lights return for the annual extraterrestrial takeover next year!

Photo: Joshua Krol

Bridging the Gap between Rock and Dubstep with Decadon

https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?visual=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F424319097&show_artwork=true&maxwidth=640&maxheight=960&dnt=1

Written By: Joshua Krol – View published article here.

Dubstep’s newest heavy hitter, Decadon, will be joining the musical invasion this weekend at Phoenix Lights Festival in Arizona. Growing up in the neighboring state of Colorado, 23-year-old Decadon, or Donnie Miller, began playing guitar with rock bands in hookah lounges and shifty bars around the Denver area. Completely immersed in the Colorado music scene, Miller transformed his love of RockNRoll into a creative inspiration for his recent brand of hard-hitting bass music. 

Much like his fun and energetic personality, Miller takes the same approach to producing. Managed by his father Don, they both have been enjoying the incredible musical journey over the past seven years. We were fortunate enough to be able to speak with Decadon before his set at Phoenix Lights Festival to talk about his influences, creative process and unique RockStep sound.

JK: Compose Yourself Magazine is based out of Colorado. I understand you’re from the Denver area. If there’s one thing that region contains besides beautiful mountains and scenery is a dense music scene. How did the Colorado music scene help shape your own musical vision?

Decadon: I grew up in Littleton, just a thirty-minute drive South of Denver. There’s always an overwhelming amount shows going on every night of the week in Colorado. That helped me in the sense that there was never a shortage of being able to play live. In middle and high school, I was playing in Rock bands, but they call Denver the ‘Bass Capitol’ for a reason and soon moved to producing.

JK: What were some of you early musical influences? Not just Colorado based, but in general.

Decadon: Growing up my mom and my dad were huge influences. They played a lot of Classic Rock around the house and in the car. Bands like Guns N Roses, Van Halen and Led Zeppelin. Then I moved on to Saliva, Kid Rock, P.O.D. and similar bands that really got me to love music. The first EDM song I ever heard was Zed’s Dead remix of White Satin followed by Skrillex and then Bassnectar. I was just blown away that only one or two people can make all of these sounds and not have to rely on a full band. After that I began molding the worlds of Rock music with Electronic.

JK: An early introduction to Classic Rock certainly made a difference early on for you. How old were you when you first started playing music and decided to seriously peruse the craft?

Decadon: I started messing around on the guitar around 10 or 11 and lost interest because of all the rules and scales. I just wanted to Rock. A couple years later, I got freakishly good at Guitar Hero and it inspired me to want to take up guitar again. This time I just took to the internet and taught myself. While I actively play guitar, I am very fluent in drums, piano and bass as well.

JK: You mentioned you started playing guitar in bands early on in your musical career. Was there a trigger that made you want to start producing?

Decadon: I think it was being able to control the music that was being made and the drive to be successful. I knew I wanted to be a musician for the rest of my life by the time I was 15. At that age it’s hard to find other kids with the same motivation. It was just easier for me to move to producing from being in a band because I could put in all the time I wanted to, and I could write what I wanted to write. It was my control element.

Decadon

JK: I must ask, what kind of guitar to use to Rock out both onstage and when you produce?

Decadon: I go between two for when I record. A Les Paul Custom along with a Gibson SG. In general though, I just love guitars. I have a nice collection. But on stage I use a custom guitar which looks like a cross between a B.C. Rich Mockingbird and a Walrock that lights up with LED’s.

JK: As I was diving into your Soundcloud I discovered some interesting remixes. You don’t normally see a Dubstep version of tracks from Green Day and Fall Out Boy. Can you speak to why you choose the songs you decide to remix?

Decadon: A lot of people who love heavy bass music usually started in the heavy rock, hardcore and punk scenes. So, I guess there are two main factors. First off, I just love the energy of those songs and secondly is the nostalgia factor. It was the music I listened to growing up and the music I love to play.

JK: Last year you played Goldrush here at the same venue Phoenix Lights is held. What are some new things we can expect from your return to Rawhide? What are you most excited for this year at Phoenix Lights?

Decadon: Arizona is probably one of the top five states in the U.S. that contains my biggest followings. This will also be the first time I am playing there with a new set and the new version of the LED guitar. I am also excited to play a later time slot so I can show more of the crowd what I’ve been working so hard on.

JK: I’ve noticed more DJ’s adding instruments to their live sets. Everyone from Odesza to people like Boogie T are getting in on the action. Can you speak on this growing trend in dance music?

Decadon: I think people are getting bored of just seeing a DJ behind a booth mixing songs together. I think artists are realizing the direction things are going and that direction is to be more musical and be musicians. However, not everyone is able to accomplish being both a musician and a DJ. For those that can, it has really been opportunity to create something special.

JK: What’s next step for Decadon? Any new releases or big announcements that you would like share?

Decadon: Continue to push out quality music. There will be a lot of releases coming every few weeks while I build on an E.P. I will be playing a hometown headliner at the Bluebird in Denver which will be very special. In addition to Phoenix Lights Festival and Dancefestopia, there are so many festivals that haven’t even been announced yet. I’m really excited to reach a lot of new people and play a lot of places for the first time.

Come bang your head with Decadon on the Mothership Stage Saturday. Donnie will also be hosting a meet great and guitar giveaway directly after his set. It’s not too late to secure entry to the invasion. Weekend tickets for PHXL are on sale now!

An Interview with the Dirty Disco Originator: Throttle

https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?visual=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F546622695&show_artwork=true&maxwidth=640&maxheight=960&dnt=1

Written By: Joshua Krol – View published article here.

Hailing from the land down under, 22-year-old Throttle will be trading green Melbourne suburbia for the desert city of Phoenix when he makes his debut performance at Phoenix Lights Festival in early April. Growing up in Australia, Throttle, aka Robbie Bergin, took to music at an early age. Learning guitar as a child and listening to independent labels like Triple J, Bergin quickly stepped up to the DJ table.

Initially creating mashups for friends at house parties, his love for production continued to blossom. By blending elements of progressive House, Hardstyle and old school Disco, young Bergin began to combine these styles into a new genre he calls Dirty Disco. We had a chance to catch up with Robbie before his set at Phoenix Lights to discuss his inspirations, influences and meteoric rise as one of EDM’s freshest sounds.

JK: You’re already making a name for yourself in the electronic world in your early twenties. How old were you when you first started getting involved with music?

Throttle: Started playing guitar at age 8. I started DJing when I was 13 and started producing at 14. When I first started DJing I was just making mashups using a Hip-Hop acapella over a dance beat. I was then introduced to a friend who was making these dance beats that I was using, and it was mind blowing to me at the time. It then made me start to wonder how I could start making my own beats.

JK: Is there a certain influence you can point to that inspired you to move toward EDM and producing? Was there a trigger that made you decide to start producing your own music?

Throttle: Madeon was a huge influence for me early on. He was wiping out everyone in the scene at just 16 and his music just took off. He really inspired me to start making music out of my bedroom because at that point I had no idea on how to invent music and the process was quite overwhelming being a kid at home. All these things came together when I was 13/14 and led me to start making my own music.

JK: I’ve noticed that sometimes one of a DJ’s first shows are the most memorable ones for one reason or another. When did you first start playing live DJ sets? Do you have a notable experience from that time?

Throttle: I first started playing house parties which gave me a really diverse interest in music because you have to have all sorts of different music to play these parties. The first house party I ever played I had to beg my friend to let me DJ their party because it was on the same night as my school awards night. There was only about two-thousand dollars worth of gear. It it started to rain and all the gear got wet. The cops came and told us to turn the music down because it was too loud. It was the perfect first gig.

JK: From playing local house parties to travelling internationally to play your music. You will be playing in Arizona for the upcoming festival. Have you visited Phoenix before?

Throttle: I first visited Arizona as a kid on a family vacation with my parents in 2004. Since then I’ve played Phoenix twice. I love it there.

JK: The music scene in the region has really been taking off lately. Phoenix Lights is considered one of the biggest electronic events in that area as well. What are you most looking forward to while playing Phoenix Lights?

Thottle: I’ve been keeping tabs on Phoenix shows to be honest. I’m excited to get back and see the crowds there. I’ve never played a festival in the Southwest. There are also a lot of artists on the lineup that I really love.

JK: One last thing while we are on the topic of Phoenix Lights. Considering this will be your first time playing a festival in the state, can you give us some insight on what can we expect from your set at Phoenix Lights?

Throttle: A lot of new music. I have so much music I have been working on recently. I had a couple months off before this current run of U.S. shows and I have an E.P. almost finished. I have a bunch of new stuff I am going to play.

JK: Playing almost a half world away from where you originally started playing music and attending shows must feel a bit different. How do festivals in United States differ from ones in Australia?

Throttle: America is more open to dance music. The artist choices and the music that is played is all different. While in Australia it’s more underground and indie. There’s a lot more diversity in music tastes in the U.S. The American festival is certainly more grand whether it’s the stage design, with the way people dress up and the props they bring. I’ve never gotten Kandi at an Australian show that’s for sure.

JK: Let’s dive into Dirty Disco a bit. The first time we came across Dirty Disco was on your soundcloud mixes. Is this something that you created? Explain what Dirty Disco is and where it comes from?

Throttle: It started as a radio show as you mentioned. It was an attempt to sum up my music which has always been inspired by Disco, whether it’s the groove or soundscapes I use, but doing it in a modern way. Hence the Dirty part. Taking influence from Madeon and Daft Punk by looking at the sampling and the combination of elements from different eras. Dirty Disco went from my radio show to the way I like my music to throwing a Dirty Disco party in Miami. It’s become much more than I originally anticipated when my 14-year-old self first came up with the name.

JK: Recently, I came across a photo of you standing on top of a DJ booth playing a guitar. That is pretty epic but is that something you usually play guitar at your live shows?

Throttle: It isn’t something I have done too much over the past year but definitely something I am going to bring back. Once the new music comes out, I think it will make a lot more sense because it’s a bit more musical I’d say. Right now, I am sorting out the gear and will bring that live element back at the right time.

JK: Can you speak a bit to where you find inspiration? I am sure travelling internationally is not easy on the creative process.

Throttle: By living. That is the only way. I think a lot of people lose inspiration when they go on the road or start making music because they shut that part of their life off. Just enjoy life, go out to concerts, eat good food and meet new people. Inspiration comes from everywhere and strikes at the weirdest times for me.

JK: That is some very good advice. Inspiration usually leads to motivation and accomplishment. What would you consider your biggest musical accomplishment to date?

Throttle: Probably doing the official Remix of September by Earth, Wind and Fire. It’s one of my favorite songs of all time and I was allowed to use the original stems from the band. To have that permission and Thank You from the band was amazing.

JK: It looks as if Phoenix Lights is the last stop on your Spring Tour. What’s next for Throttle?

Throttle: Doing a lot of festivals in Europe. I’ll be back in the U.S. for a little while over the summer. As I mentioned there is a bunch of new music on the way. A lot of stuff I am really proud of and have actually song written myself. A lot of excitement.

Catch the slice of the Dirty Disco action on Saturday as Throttle takes part in the Phoenix Lights takeover on the Invasion Stage. Tickets are still on sale via the PHXL2019 website.

Initial Invasion: Phoenix Lights Festival Phase One Playlist

The alien minds at Relentless Beats have chosen their initial artist selections for this year’s Phoenix Lights Festival. The Mothership will be returning to The Park at Wild Horse Pass at the Rawhide Event Center in Chandler, AZ. This festival is landing with a stacked arsenal of musical ambassadors. Catch some of the top names in EDM and Hip-Hop under the Phoenix Lights at this year’s invasion.

Leading the charge on the initial transmission is the Trance Superman, Kaskade. While this booking has been known since November, additional mesmerizing EDM artists have been enlisted to provide a State of Trance at Phoenix Lights. Veteran producer and North Wales native, Sasha, will also be entrancing the PHL crowd with his unique fusion of Techno, Trance, and House vibes. Accompanying the euphoric portion of the primary lineup are the Anjunabeats associates Arty, Spencer Brown and Jay Lumen.

Providing the heavy artillery this year will be Dubstep powerhouse Excision and guitar-playing headbanger Decadon. Future Funk Father Griz will be keeping the energy high along with rising EDM stars San Holo, Party Favor and dirty disco gunslinger Throttle.

Progressive House and Hip-Hop will also be aiding in the aural abductions this April. A$AP Mob Founder, A$AP Ferg along with the infamous Mustard will be setting the Trap for the PHL crowd. French House mystery man Malaa, owner Jeremy Olander, and Dirtybird cohorts Claude VonStroke and Shiba San have been recruited to keep the festival throbbing all weekend long.

Tickets are on sale now! Get your weekend pass and get ready for the invasion by listening to the Phase One playlist below. Remember to keep an eye on Phoenix Lights socials for the next Transmission!

Phoenix Lights Festival Invades Arizona for Fifth Anniversary

Written By: Joshua Krol – View published article here.

Calling all Earthlings: Reports have been confirmed that an alien mothership is touching down this Spring in the Arizona desert. This alien aircraft has been identified as the vessel carrying the lights and sounds of one of the region’s largest and wildest parties. Phoenix Lights will be making landfall at Wild Horse Pass in Arizona on April 4-5th and is primed to bring the heat for its fifth anniversary.

The festival is named after the inexplicable event that occurred during a starry evening in 1997 when a string of bright lights floated eerily over Phoenix. Thousands of people in the surrounding areas claimed to have seen spherical lights and UFO’s during this ‘otherworldly’ event. While there are still questions surrounding that night, organizers of Phoenix Lights felt inspired by this phenomenon and decided to create a 2-day party paying homage to all things extraterrestrial.

The first group of alien musical ambassadors has already been revealed. Both Excision and Kaskade will be returning to the festival this year after their jaw-dropping 2016 headlining appearances. Joining the Dubstep Powerhouse and a Trance Godfather will be melodic Techno mainstays Jeremy Olander and Jay Lumen. House music heavy hitters Malaa and Shiba San were also announced as part of the invasion alongside the Trap Lord rapper ASAP Ferg. The full lineup is yet to be announced but these current transmissions is a testament to the sound driving this event and proof that organizers plan on treating fans to a stacked lineup.

Controlling those transmissions are the event gurus at Relentless Beats. With similar projects such as Goldrush Festival, Decadence AZ and Global Dance Festival blossoming, Relentless Beats has become Phoenix’s largest promotion company. Expect outstanding organization and top tier production as RB’s reputation tends to precede them.

Phoenix Lights is returning to the custom-built venue at the Park at Wild Horse Pass. Formerly held at Phoenix’s downtown locale at Margaret T. Hance Park, organizers have teamed the Rawhide Event Center and built a semi-permanent alien landing pad. Specifically created for Relentless Beats type events, the 29-acre park includes 56,000-square-foot lawn, a dedicated parking lot, and enough capacity for up to 10,000 people the Phoenix Times reported.

The EDM scene surrounding the Phoenix area has taken off in recent years thanks in large part to the minds at Relentless Beats. Clear evidence can be seen in the increase of music festivals in the area and the expanding of already existing events. Phoenix Lights originally started out as a single day event, but now spans to two days across multiple stages. This growth has been of great relief to Arizona music fans and they have reciprocated their thankfulness by providing unlimited good vibes and positivity that run through each events underbelly.

Tickets are on sale now for the low price of $129 plus tax and fees for a 2-day pass and $229 for VIP. Payment plans are also available so no need to wait to secure your trip to the abduction.

Mamby Returns to Chicago for Beachside Blowout

View published article here.

It takes a certain bold brilliance to compile a collection of shining indie rockers, top Hip-Hop artists and an impressive collection of House and Techno DJ’s on a Southside Chicago beach. However, organizers of Mamby on the Beach seized an opportunity to create this completely unique experience. Now, in its 4^th year, Mamby continues to be one of the city’s most sought after boutique music festivals.

With such a saturation of festivals during the sunny seasons in Chi, Mamby has been able to set itself apart by offering consistently stacked musical talent in a fun and serene environment. Mamby on the Beach is also the only major sand-filled music fest offered on Chicago’s lakeshore. This late June beachside bonanza offers much more than just great tunes in the sun and sand. Here are 5 reasons why Mamby is a Midwest music festival must:

The VIP Perks

Mamby’s location on Oakwood Beach provides lush grassy fields and a clean sprawling beach for attendees to roam. Go VIP and enjoy an experience like no other Chicago festival offers: water access. While VIP ticket holders will enjoy the industry standard express entry, preferred viewing and private bars, VIP will also grant you a special section of Lake Michigan to splash around in next to the main stage. After jumping in a few waves, head over to a brand-new VIP-specific Mamby addition: A VIP tiki bar. This area will include one-of-a-kind, custom built tiki lounges with shade and a cocktail bar. A truly overall one of a kind VIP experience.

Diverse Headliners

Knowing how to set the tune to a perfect summer beachside weekend is somewhat of an art. Mamby has perfected this art while staying true to its musical formula year after year. First, they take one-part brilliant indie rock in the vein of Spoon, Grizzly Bear, Cold War Kids and St. Lucia. Second, they add one-part Hip-Hop flavor with Russ, Roy Wood$, and hometown hero Common. Lastly, a healthy serving of top names in bumping electronic are added. Techno superstars Richie Hawtin and Dixon accompany House heavy-hitters Duke Dumont and Jai Wolf among others in the Mixmag/Beatport Tent. Take those three parts and bake them under a Chicago sun-laden skyline and you will end up with a truly utopic weekend.

Beyond the Stage

Since breaking ground, Mamby has listened to its patrons and has continued to upgrade the event every year. As a result, Mamby has grown into a well-rounded festival with many fun activities outside of the sound stages. One example is that attendees can partake in a few matches of beach volleyball while waiting for their favorite artist. The annual mid-fest water balloon fight is another example and is certain to bring overwhelming hints of nostalgia. Mamby continues to broaden its range of art installations and wellness workshops since its fruition. Yoga, tarot card and palm readings, poetry slams, henna tattoos, and local food options are all included with your general admission pass. Get to the festival early to partake in some of these awesome additions.

Community Program

Mamby has always attempted to give back to the community and city that has given the them such quick and widespread success. In years past, Mamby has donated to various nonprofit organizations and other progressive missions. This year they take it one step further by adding a brand-new Community Village. This special portion of the grounds will be dedicated to showcasing talent from Young Chicago Authors and other surrounding neighborhoods. Just another reason why Mamby has continued to gain prevalent credibility and respect.

Local Talent Showcase

Chicago’s music community is mighty and has provided a plethora of young stars and prodigies in recent years. The amount of raw talent flowing from the busy city streets is undeniable. A hefty amount of local Rap and Hip-Hop will be represented this year with the unique lyricism of the Towkio, the relaxed avant-garde flow of Joseph Chilliams, the raunchy raps provided by Cupcakke and Chance the Rapper protégé, Kami of the Savemoney Crew. The Second City breeds much more than Hip-Hop lyricists. It has been known to create its share of singers and electronic up-and-comers. Don’t miss the soulful sounds of Jamila Woods and the widely respected gospel singer Jonathan McReynolds who will be providing a range of vocal feels. Behind the decks repping Chi-Town will be the young and tropical Whethan, Showyousuck, vinyl crate diggers Windy City Soul Club, and the dance club mainstay DJ Hyperactive. Mamby makes it a point every year to shine a light on the strong collection of local rappers, singers and musicians this Midwest mecca has to offer.

For those looking for a fresh type of festival look no further than Mamby on the Beach this year. This unique two-day event boasts a lineup that feels exceptionally attuned to some of the hottest stars, rising locals and good vibes prevalent today. Visit the Bronzeville neighborhood this June 23rd and 24th for a fun environment geared toward community and wellness. Kick up some sand, splash in some waves and experience something different this year at Mamby on the Beach.

Roots Run Deep: 6 Local Acts Featured at Gem and Jam

Written By: Joshua Krol – View published article here.

It’s proven in nature that if you want to continue growing, the roots must run deep. With over a decade of experience under its wing, Gem and Jam have been able to hold its own in the crowded festival landscape. The ability to do this can be credited in part to its placement during the globally renown Tucson Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show. However, what has fueled the festival’s growth from a small urban nightlife option to a burgeoning desert camping festival is the collective energy patrons provide, providing a transformational setting and continuing to deepen its roots by enlisting and promoting local artists alongside headliners.

This year is warming up to be one of Gem and Jam’s hottest yet. With brand new camping options, new spacious and scenic festival grounds at the Pima County Fairgrounds, and headlining acts including Gramatik, The Floozies, The Motet and The Infamous Stringdusters, Gem and Jam is a can’t miss. Scrolling down to the latter half of the lineup one will find a selection of wonderfully diverse music rooted and grown in the festival’s hometown of Tucson. Check out these 6 locally grown artists featured at this year’s Gem and Jam Festival:

Cadillac Mountain

Rising out of the sands with a hankering for knee slapping and foot stomping, Cadillac Mountain is one of the only bluegrass bands featured on the lineup this year. Typically comprised of an acoustic guitar, banjo and fiddle, expect a set filled with traditional bluegrass arrangements filled with twang and harmony.

8 Minutes to Burn

This Tucson sextet brings a refreshing sound that comes with its wide range of influences and talents. The band combines elements of Southern Rock, New Orleans Funk and Roots Reggae in a seamless blend of musical exploration. Spend some time with 8 Minutes to Burn and discover why the city keeps buzzing about them.

Electric Feel

What do you get when you throw three talented Tucson producers together, let them create music and give them their own locally broadcasted radio show? If those three producers are Corbin Dooley, Toby Roberts, and E.android then you would have Electric Feel. In a live setting, Electric Feel brings electronic music to life as members switch between laptops, guitars and keyboard giving the music a truly livetronic feel that is littered with hints of house, disco and electro.

Keli and the Big Dream

With a voice as golden as the Arizona sun, singer/guitarist/songwriter Keli Carpenter is bringing her band to Gem and Jam this year. Smooth, soulful lyrics provide a perfect landscape for a backdrop of sound that is composed of soulful flowing beats and the occasional horn section. Describing themselves as a place where “desert soul meets dreamy folk,” there is no denying this mixture is aurally addicting.

Onism Qi

Another supergroup of sorts makes the list with Onism Qi. This new collective was formed by three of Tucson’s drum n bass legends: Quentin Hiatus, Ghast & ThomasB. This collective is so new in fact that their set at this year’s Gem and Jam will be their debut performance as a group. Take a journey with Onism Qi into the depths of DnB and Jungle. Check out an interview with the group here.

https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/169475983&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true

The Bennu

Returning to Gem and Jam for their fifth time, The Bennu is not only a Gem and Jam veteran but also a beloved product of Tucson soil. Inhabiting organic grooves influenced by jazz, world music and electronica, The Bennu creates an atmospheric journey through their music and live shows. Conscious in direction and improvisational in nature, this quintet brings an undeniable energy that is sure to draw a crowd.

https://w.soundcloud.com/player/url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/268220240&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true

Gem and Jam Festival has done a wonderful job booking eclectic musical talent ranging from bluegrass to drum n bass thanks in part to these local artists. Adding to not only the lineups variance and texture, these artists also bring together the local community with pride. Catch these acts over the weekend and see what’s cooking in the Tucson music scene. 

North Coast Music Festival Combines Musical Diversity and Urban Fun in Chicago

Chicago’s inner-city summer send-off is returning to Union Park for its 8^th consecutive year. North Coast Music Festival has been a staple in Chicago’s bourgeoning festival scene because of how it combines urban ambience with an absolutely stacked collection of artistic and musical talent. Miguel, Snails, Juice Wrld, DJ Snake, The Revivalists, Gramatik and Yellow Claw are only some of insane artists igniting the stages this year. In addition, NCMF was able to land one of the most sought after acts of 2018 as Jamiroquai makes their return to the Midwest after over a decade.

Accompanying one of more eclectic lineups out this summer at NCMF will be an array of art sculptures, live art installations and scrumptious food trucks. Roam the grounds long enough and one could discover talented graffiti painters in the act and uncover locally made merchandise. All this Chicago flair will all be contained within Union Park’s compact perimeter making it easy to admire the outstanding production held at each stage all weekend.

Experience ‘Summer’s Last Stand’ for only $150 for a 3day GA ticket and single day passes running between $50-60 dollars. For those looking to get more out of their festival experience can find sanctity in NCMF’s VIP option. Air-conditioned restrooms, expanded bar options that include hard alcohol and mixed drinks, free bottled water and a number of other useful amenities are all included with a VIP purchase of $209 for 3day and a range of $70-90 dollars for single days.

NCMF has built a notable reputation for itself since its inception in 2010. By constantly bringing mixed lineups that include Hip-Hop, Rock and Electronic, NCMF has been able to reach a wide demographic that has made the festival a highlight every year. Enjoy Labor Day weekend in the park with your Coastie Crew!

Website : www.northcoastfestival.com

Facebook : Facebook URL (www.facebook.com/northcoastfest)

Twitter :  Twitter URL (twitter.com/northcoastfest)