When I look at my calendar on the wall, I can’t believe that already nearly half the days in July are ex’ed out. Is it already mid-summer? And while some may fear summer’s end because it coincides with the return of schoolwork and responsibilities, for us in the electronic dance music community, it could only mean one tragic thing, festival season is almost over.
While most of the massive summer festivals have come and gone, you may be wondering what can hold off your cravings for some high energy crowds and awesome music until Electric Zoo in August. Well look no further. Because starting next week, Identity Festival is taking to the roads.
Beginning in 2011, Identity festival became a hit around the country as the world’s first electric only touring festival. With last year’s lineup filled with huge artists such as Avicii, Chuckie, Steve Aoki, and many others, it’s no wonder the tour’s return in 2012 was highly anticipated.
So when the Identity Festival site announced a New York stop at the Nikon Jones Beach Theatre on July 28th, I knew I had to be there. And with it currently being the ONLY completely sold-out Identity show, apparently everyone in New York thought the exact same thing.
While the full New York lineup features 14 artists, here are my top two MUST see acts.
Eric Prydz
Previously only doing shows in Europe due to his fear of flying, the Swedish music legend will finally be making his way to the states and we couldn’t be more stoked. At first I thought it was crazy how someone could have such a following in a country they never play in. But once I listened to his incredible progressive house sound in his newest album ‘Pryda’, I had no further questions. This is a set not to be missed. And take a listen to my personal favorite Pryda track ‘Allein’.
[youtube id="H6quPnsTnA8" width="620" height="360"]Arty
Another fabulous addition to the lineup will be Arty. Having already seen Arty perform 10+ times, I can honestly say this man never disappoints. From sets at massive festivals like Electric Daisy Carnival, to smaller club shows at Pacha NYC, Arty has brought something new to the table every time I’ve seen him. While some may criticize him for incorporating more house style into his previously mostly trance music, I think he is blending the two genres perfectly. Give his new unreleased track ‘Together We Are’ a listen, go check him out at the show, and decide for yourself.
[youtube id="FvkK3axb5TE" width="620" height="360"]And joining these two for a sure to be crazy day will be Madeon, Noisia, Showtek, The Gaslamp Killer, Le Castle Vania, Eva Simons, The Eye, Static Revenger, Audery Napoleon, Rye Rye, DVBBS, and Stephen Jacobs.
Like I said, this show is all sold out!
So if you haven’t already, now would be the time to frantically call everyone in your phonebook and find yourself a ticket. You don’t want to miss this one.
And keep a look out for TheBeatMill crew! We’ll be at ID shows all over the east coast. See you there!
