Festivals are the thing to do in the summer time now. Even if people are not a devout fans of the particular genres being hosted at an event, they come in troves to to get the authentic festival experience. This unfortunately leads to many of the attendees crowding the main stage when some serious talent lies just outside their reach at the side stages. Lucky for those of you attending this year's Electric Forest I have compiled a list of five artists that you NEED to see. Some of these acts are more well known than others, but overall these are the up and coming acts that are going to no doubt light it up in the woods of Rothbury this year.
5. Dabin (Thursday 4-4:45, Ranch Arena)
Dabin is an incredible talent and rising star off of the Montreal based label, Kannibalen. Dabin is difficult to put into a single genre. He seamlessly blends melodic, dubstep, progressive and electro to give the listener a truly unique experience. He is the opening set of the entire festival and if you are able to attend, I heavily advise you do. Dabin performs with CDJ's, Launch Pads, and live instruments making for an impressive live act. Check out some of his tracks from his first album, ‘Bloodless' below!
4. JackLNDN (11-12 Forest Stage, Thursday) & (3-4:15 Tripolee, Saturday) & (3:45-4:45 Tripolee, Sunday)
JackLNDN has launched onto the scene in the past year with tons of beyond impressive remixes and original works as well. JackLNDN's sound is unique and hauntingly captivating. His blend of house, disco and future makes for absolutely groovy feel good sets. Clearly Forest knows that this guy can bring it by giving him 3 different set times over the festival's duration. JackLNDN has experience playing out giant festivals and is a veteran of the club scene as well. I can assure you every one of his sets will be one you will not regret. Check out my favorite remix of his below!
3. Wiwek (11:15-12:15 Tripolee, Sunday)
Wiwek has brought the terror to America! Jungle Terror is now one of the fastest growing movements in electronic dance music today and Wiwek is responsible for a good bit of that hype. His high energy sets, pounding bass lines, explosive buildups and all around impressive productions make for one hell of following. Wiwek's set is going to be a sweaty mess of a good time. If you are a veteran of jungle terror or just getting your feet wet, you definitely want to check this cat out.
2. TEEMID (9:15-10:15 The Observatory, Friday)
TEEMID has become nothing short of an obsession for me this past year. TEEMID is known for covers of tracks that you might not expect to be blended into chilled out EDM masterpieces. The first I heard of TEEMID was a remix of Gnarles Barkley's ‘Crazy' that literally entranced me with beautiful vocals and a masterful rework of background beats. Having a full hour set is going to be an absolute treat. Check out TEEMID for covers of pop hits that utilize female vocalists for awesome re-imaginings. This is seriously one that you need to hit up!
1. Black Tiger Sex Machine (10-11 Tripolee, Sunday)
Well anyone who is familiar with my writings probably saw this one coming. Black Tiger Sex Machine is absolutely the must see act of Electric Forest. This trio not only leads Kannibalen Records but has been leading a full scale invasion of America the past few months. BTSM's style is unlike anything currently going around. Powerfully aggressive electro, and unforgiving bass make for a live set that will blow you onto the ground. The energy level of these predatory animals during their stage performances gets the crowd going. Featuring launchpads, CDJ's, keyboards, and LED infused blacked-out tiger masks make for a stage set up that you need to see to believe.
So there you have it. The countdown of the top 5 lesser known acts you need to see at Forest this year. I cannot wait to get out to the woods and see all you beautiful people. Check us out on Twitter @EDMSauce for live updates and giveaways taking place on the festival grounds!
