After an electrifying sold-out debut that left fans buzzing, Upclose Festival is set to return for its highly anticipated second edition. Taking over the stunning Spaarnwoude-Park once again, this two-day celebration of cutting-edge techno will take place on May 17th and 18th, 2025, promising an intimate and immersive experience for lovers of the genre. Get your tickets here. Curated by Awakenings, the festival pays homage to the raw essence of the dance floor: sweaty, steamy, and intimate—the kind of space where every beat seems personal and the connection between the crowd and the music is palpable. Upclose 2025 takes this ethos even further, delving deeper into techno's progressive and niche sounds for those who live and breathe underground music. This year's lineup is a bold blend of techno's vanguard, featuring live performances, daring collaborations, and back-to-backs that promise to bend time and expectations. Each set is meticulously crafted to immerse dancers in a sonic journey—hypnotic, relentless, and forward-thinking. Expect legends like Jeff Mills, a pioneer who continues to shape the sound of techno, alongside Donato Dozzy, who teams up with Jane Fitz for an atmospheric blend of ambient and hypnotic beats. In a crossover twist, EZ, the godfather of UK Garage, adds his iconic energy to the weekend. Meanwhile, artists like KI/KI, DJ Rush, and Kobosil will deliver the harder, uncompromising sounds that define their artistry. Boundary-pushing performances are at the heart of Upclose. Highlights include 999999999's special acid set, a Japanese techno debut by Atsuo the Pineapple Donkey (live), and a 6-deck battle between Cristian Varela and Marco Bailey. Exclusive collaborations also take centre stage, such as Ben Klock x Ignez, Surgeon x Rrose, and Marrøn x Rødhåd—pairings that epitomise innovation and artistry. Upclose is more than just a festival; it celebrates community and culture. The intimate scale creates a unique synergy between the audience and performers, blending global legends with rising local talent. Dutch stalwarts like Benny Rodrigues, Cynthia Spiering, and Nelly anchor the lineup, showcasing the creativity and diversity thriving in the Netherlands' underground scene. Upclose's dance floor becomes a shared sanctuary, dissolving the barriers between the booth and the crowd. From avant-garde stage designs to a community that embraces fashion and music alike, the festival encapsulates the spirit of club culture at its finest. On May 17th and 18th, 2025, Spaarnwoude-Park will pulse with the energy of forward-thinking techno. Upclose Festival isn't just an event; it's a movement—a celebration of sound, sweat, and shared passion. This is one weekend you won't want to miss.

This festive season, Native Instruments, iZotope, and Plugin Alliance are serving up some of their best deals yet, making it the perfect time to dive into music production and fuel your creativity through the winter months. Whether you're looking to upgrade your setup, try out new tools, or add some fresh sounds to your collection, these offers are packed with incredible savings and freebies for musicians of all genres. Native Instruments: Free Leap Expansion: Get your hands on a free Leap Expansion when you download the Kontakt 8 Player. Choose from a wide range of genres, including Afrobeats, Progressive Trance, Latin Trap, RnB Licks, and more. It's a fantastic way to experiment with new sounds and explore the latest loop engine at no cost. Buy One, Get Two Free: Native Instruments is offering a great deal where you can buy your favourite Play Series instrument or Expansion and pick two more of the same kind for free. It's the perfect opportunity to build up your sound library without breaking the bank. Classic Synths for $19: If you've been eyeing some vintage synths, now's your chance to grab 14 classic options—from FM synthesis to modular blocks—for just $19 each. These synths are ideal for adding new textures and depth to your music. 50% off Massive X: Massive X is a powerhouse synth known for its bold basslines, intricate leads, and expansive textures. Right now, it's available at half price, making it a must-have for producers who want to push their sound to the next level. iZotope: Catalyst Bundle for $129: iZotope's new Catalyst Bundle includes three intelligent, creative effects—saturation, reverb, and delay—that will take your tracks to a whole new level. Whether you're looking to add warmth, space, or texture, this bundle has you covered. 50% off Exponential Reverbs: Add depth and dimension to your tracks with legendary reverb plugins from Exponential Audio, including the stunning Symphony 3D. It's the perfect time to give your mixes that polished, professional touch. Elements Suite for $99: If you're just starting out or need a quick, reliable suite of tools, the Elements Suite is a fantastic choice. This complete set of audio tools allows you to mix, master, and repair in seconds—ideal for fast, efficient workflows. VEA for $19: For anyone working with vocals or podcasts, iZotope's VEA plugin is a game-changer. Enhance your recordings with intuitive tools that make everything sound more powerful and professional, all for just $19. Plugin Alliance: A Deal a Day During the Holidays Plugin Alliance is running a unique holiday promotion, offering a new deal every day throughout the festive season. Think of it like a musical advent calendar—each day could bring a new plugin release, big discounts, or vouchers for your favourite tools. Be sure to check in daily to discover the latest offer and grab a bargain before it's gone. Discover the deals: Plugin Alliance Holiday Deals Whether you're an aspiring producer or an experienced artist, these holiday deals from Native Instruments, iZotope, and Plugin Alliance offer something for everyone. It's the perfect opportunity to expand your sound library, refine your mixes, and experiment with new creative tools—all at a fraction of the price. So why wait? Get your hands on these incredible offers and take your music production to new heights this season. More Info Native Instruments iZotope Plugin Alliance

Hailing from Glasgow, CADZOW is making waves in the hard dance scene with his high-energy performances and razor-sharp productions. With a back catalogue spanning hard techno, schranz, and hard dance, his debut EP Sweet Lies on Lee Ann Roberts' NowNow Records delivers a powerful statement of intent. As the release date of 12th December approaches, CADZOW reflects on his journey, inspirations, and the raw energy that drives his music. Pre-order his 'Sweet Lies' EP here: https://www.beatport.com/release/sweet-lies-ep/4833089. Growing up in Glasgow's rich musical culture shaped CADZOW's dynamic approach to DJing and production. "I really had a broad music taste," he explains. "From listening to Makina and UK Hardcore at house parties to going to Indie and Rap concerts, I've always drawn inspiration from everything I listened to. For as long as I can remember, I've been listening to music every single day. That's what made me want to create my own music to share." His tracks have already caught the attention of industry heavyweights like Alignment and Sara Landry. CADZOW recalls the surreal feeling of seeing his bedroom-crafted beats reach massive crowds: "To have such massive artists play my tracks is still mind-blowing. From creating a track in my bedroom to seeing them play it out in front of tens of thousands of people is crazy. It shows if you put the effort in, it will always pay off." The Sweet Lies EP exemplifies CADZOW's ability to balance melody and intensity. "I love blending softer and harder elements together to create a wild mixture of sounds," he says. "I like to gradually bring up the energy of the track and create a big drop. My inspiration for these tracks was to create a story around the vocals I used. They were brought to life with psy-trancey basslines, hard screeches, and driving drums." Each track on the EP brings its own brand of ferocity. The opener, "Sweet Lies," explodes with rave-ready melodies and restless percussion, while "The Ritual" intensifies the journey with frenzied drum patterns and pulsing basslines. Closing the EP is "Give It To You," a whirlwind of thumping drums, hoover synths, and rapid-fire vocals that leaves no dancefloor untouched. CADZOW's work places him firmly within the new wave of artists redefining hard dance. "In this scene, you have to have a bit of character," he notes. "Engaging with the crowd, cameras, and fans is so important because if it wasn't for these people, I wouldn't be where I am now. Building relationships with labels and artists shows you've got what it takes to take it to the next level." Known for his relentless DJ sets, CADZOW thrives on the connection between himself and the crowd. "When I play, I feel like a different person," he shares. "I feel in the zone and buzzing to perform the set. I can't help but dance along and interact with the crowd as I drop some bangers. You feel free up there, and it's the best feeling in the world to make people dance." With hard dance evolving at a rapid pace, CADZOW is excited to push the boundaries of his sound. "It's hard to tell where the genre is going, but in a good way," he says. "With so many talented producers making new bangers with unique sounds, it's evolving fast. I want to keep making hard and fast energetic tracks to fit into my sets and keep making people dance." For CADZOW, the journey has already been filled with unforgettable moments. "My most memorable moment has got to be playing Terminal V," he reveals. "I first attended the festival in 2019 with some friends before I even started making music. If you had told me I'd be playing it five years later, I would have laughed. But it was unreal to play locally in front of 3,000 people, and I can't wait to see what the future holds." As CADZOW's Sweet Lies prepares to drop on 12th December, fans can expect nothing less than a thrilling, high-energy ride. With his unique blend of influences and his relentless passion, CADZOW is poised to become a defining voice in the future of hard dance. CADZOW https://www.instagram.com/cadzowww https://open.spotify.com/artist/6sBw32TBnBwXTOTWeOqvcJ https://soundcloud.com/aaron-cadzow-2 NowNow Records https://www.instagram.com/nownowrecords https://soundcloud.com/nownowrecords

As the year draws to a close, German producer Thorsten Hammer drops his final single of 2024, Dark Skies, on December 6th via Huxley's celebrated label, Dumb Safari. This poignant track marks the culmination of a transformative year for Thorsten, whose journey has been defined by standout releases on iconic labels such as Poker Flat, Mobilee, and Stealth. Download/stream it here: https://ffm.to/ds024. The story of Dark Skies began earlier this year at the Poker Flat Recordings retreat in Ibiza. There, Thorsten immersed himself in a creative energy hub, working alongside luminaries like Steve Bug, Huxley, and Denney. This pivotal retreat sharpened his craft and introduced him to Huxley, who would become an instrumental figure in Thorsten's artistic journey. Reflecting on the experience, Thorsten shares: "Huxley's invaluable advice and attention to detail helped me refine my production skills and shaped my sound in ways I couldn't have imagined. Over time, he's become more than just a mentor—he's a true friend whose support has been pivotal in my journey. Releasing Dark Skies on Dumb Safari feels like a full-circle moment, and I couldn't be more grateful." Dark Skies is much more than just a single—it's a profoundly emotional and uplifting piece that captures Thorsten's personal growth and resilience through challenging times. A seamless fusion of melodic house and Afro-house influences, the track serves as both a celebration of his achievements and a reminder of the unifying power of music. For Thorsten, this release symbolises his progress as a producer and his steadfast commitment to his dreams. "This year has been a whirlwind," he says. "Dark Skies encapsulates everything I've learned and felt—it's my way of closing one chapter and opening another." With its poignant melodies and infectious rhythms, Dark Skies is set to leave a lasting impression on fans and fellow artists alike. The track is available on all major streaming platforms from December 6th—don't miss the chance to hear Thorsten Hammer's final word in what has been an extraordinary 2024. Thorsten Hammer https://soundcloud.com/thorstenhammer https://www.instagram.com/thorstenhammer_music https://www.facebook.com/thorstenhammer.official https://www.beatport.com/artist/thorsten-hammer/110450 https://open.spotify.com/intl-de/artist/0Swp8sphr0rzQ41yReI7sh

Emerging house music producer Draye has turned his creative sights on Rick Ross's legendary track "Devil Is a Lie", delivering a fresh remix that's already turning heads. By weaving the original's trap-heavy intensity into a tapestry of house-driven grooves, Draye has transformed the hip-hop hit into a bona fide dancefloor anthem. The remix retains the grit and grandeur of Rick Ross's classic while injecting infectious rhythms and slick house sensibilities. From the pounding bassline to the cleverly arranged vocal chops, Draye's reinterpretation breathes new life into a track that feels as at home in underground clubs as in festival arenas. It's a bold and confident statement from an artist rapidly gaining traction in the electronic music scene. Based in Los Angeles, Draye has carved out a niche with his distinctive fusion of tech house, bass house, and hip-hop influences. His ability to craft tracks that combine different genres into a seamless and danceable whole has set him apart. It's not just his remixes that are earning him acclaim; Draye's original productions showcase a versatility and vision that are unmistakably his. "I've always loved experimenting with genres that inspire me," says Draye. "With 'Devil Is a Lie', I wanted to keep the original's raw energy while giving it a groove that connects with today's house music crowd. It's all about making people move." Draye's reputation is growing steadily, with fans and industry tastemakers noticing. His bold approach to music, blending urban and electronic elements, proves he's not just another producer following trends—he's setting them. Draye instagram.com/drayemusic tiktok.com/@drayemusic soundcloud.com/drayemusic

Sound Waves is set to make waves once again as it returns to Lisbon for its second Winter Edition edition. Following a remarkable summer in Esmoriz and the success of last year’s Lisbon debut, the iconic event will take place on Saturday, 8th February 2025, at Pavilhão Carlos Lopes. Doors open at 8 PM, with the music continuing until 6 AM, promising a marathon of high-energy beats and unforgettable moments. The carefully curated lineup showcases some of the most influential names in techno and hard techno today. Italian duo 999999999, renowned for their hard and acid techno, will bring their unparalleled intensity to the stage, captivating the crowd with their boundary-pushing sound. Making his highly anticipated debut in Portugal, Bad Boombox will treat attendees to an eclectic blend of Groovy Rave, Hardgroove, and Booty Trance. The night doesn’t stop there. Industrial techno fans can look forward to a standout set from American artist Fantasm, one of the most sought-after names in the scene. At the same time, Colombian sensation Hades will mesmerise the crowd with his dark, heavy soundscapes. Dutch dynamo Lee Ann Roberts is also on the bill, delivering her trademark infectious energy and driving beats. Rounding off the lineup is Sound Waves resident Ornella, a rising star in Portugal’s techno scene, whose mastery of Schranz makes her a name to watch. With over ten hours of music, this event promises an unparalleled journey through the depths of techno. Sound Waves has cemented its reputation as a visionary force in electronic music since its inception in 2005, consistently showcasing both established icons and emerging talent. Its events have become a staple in Portugal’s electronic music calendar, attracting fans from across the globe. The excitement doesn’t end with the Winter Edition. On 21st December 2024, the Sound Waves XMAS Edition returns to Porto, featuring Azyr, Callush, Karah, and Ornella. Later, on 27th December, Sound Waves Invites debuts at NB Club Coimbra with Nikolina, Ornella, and the Portuguese debut of Dutch duo Toxic Machinery. In 2025, Sound Waves Invites lands in Porto’s Hard Club on 3rd March, leading to the 20th-anniversary celebration in Esmoriz on 5th July. For tickets and updates, visit soundwavesfest.com. Sound Waves is more than an event—it’s a community.

Oliver Huntemann IG Mark Romboy IG Label IG BUY Techno titans and long time musical partners Marc Romboy and Oliver Huntemann are back with another epic collaboration in the form of ‘Schwarze Witwe’ on Romboy’s Systematic Recordings. This legendary pair have very much defined the sound of the electronic underground over recent decades. They are cutting edge artists with a unique grasp of melody and drama and always serve up fresh new sounds whenever they work together. This outstanding new track comes hot on the heels of ‘Teufelsfisch’ in May. That epic cut came on Huntemann's label Senso Sounds back in May and was in the Beatport charts for more than three months. This one is sure to prove just as big. ‘Schwarze Witwe’ is built on hefty drums and razor sharp percussion that cuts right through any sound system. The baseline grumbles down low with a great sense of menace and the spell binding synth work is electric. Withering lines, pixelated pads and cosmic keys all light up the airwaves in dramatic and signature fashion. This is another standout collaboration from these two icons. Artist(s): Marc Romboy, Oliver Huntemann Title: Schwarze Witwe Record Label: Systematic Recordings Cat.Number: SYSTDIGI103 Release Date: 6th December 2024 Tracklist: 1) Schwarze Witwe (Original Mix) 2) Schwarze Witwe (Edit)

ARTIST IG LABEL IG BUY IT HERE Off the back of their incredibly well received collaboration with ARTBAT, AVALAN ROKSTON, comprised of Grammy-nominated vocalist and producer AVALAN and rising German producer ROKSTON, release their latest single “Senses of Time”, on UPPERGROUND, the powerful label run by internationally acclaimed electronic Ukrainian duo. "Senses of Time" is a track that embodies the perfect synergy between AVALAN’s powerful, soul-stirring vocals and ROKSTON’s exhilarating, cinematic production. With its energy and inspiring and uplifting vocals conveying a profound, introspective message, "Senses of Time" is designed to electrify festival stages and dancefloors alike, while also resonating on a deeply personal level. AVALAN ROKSTON represents the perfect fusion of two highly accomplished talents— AVALAN, a Grammy-nominated artist known for his collaborations with trance legend Armin van Buuren, and ROKSTON, a celebrated young producer from Germany who has quickly risen through the ranks of the dance music scene. Their paths crossed in Amsterdam during the 2022 lockdown, where they immediately discovered a shared artistic vision and began collaborating in the studio. With both being multi-instrumentalists, writers, and producers, AVALAN ROKSTON draw inspiration from a shared love of electronic dance and pop music, blending genres such as Trance, Melodic Techno, and Cinematic soundscapes into their unique, signature sound. Their production style merges AVALAN’s emotive, pop-tinged vocals with ROKSTON’s grand, electrifying beats, creating a sonic experience that effortlessly transitions between massive festival stages, intimate club settings, and radio airwaves. Artist: AVALAN ROKSTON Title: Senses Of Time Record Label: UPPERGROUND Cat.Number: UPND026 Release Date: 6th December 2024 Tracklist: 1) Senses Of Time (Original Mix) 2) Senses Of Time (Radio Edit)

From the team behind Mama Roux's—a Digbeth institution known for its wild parties, confetti drops, and seamless mix of live and electronic music—comes something completely different: Club Colette. Nestled just next door on Lower Trinity Street, this new venue promises to strip things back to basics, putting DJs, intimacy, and top-notch sound quality at the heart of its offering. Unlike Mama Roux's larger-than-life approach, Club Colette is all about reconnecting with the roots of club culture. As the founders put it, they aim to restore what Digbeth has been missing in recent years: community, culture, and a laser focus on the music. The venue is split across two rooms, each with its unique vibe. The main room features a tiered design, perfect for elevated dancing and bringing the crowd closer to the DJ booth. Meanwhile, Room 2 takes things down a notch—quite literally—in a cosy, converted fried chicken shop. "It's the smallest room in the city, and we're proud of that," says co-founder Benjy Hill. "The two rooms are linked by a terrace under the Victorian viaducts, where we'll host summer day parties with local and international brands." The focus is on the little details that make for unforgettable nights: intimate spaces, quality sound, and a connection between DJs and the crowd. Club Colette's weekly programming ensures there's a night for every music lover: Fridays showcase emerging talent across genres like hip hop, UK garage, amapiano, and liquid drum and bass, giving up-and-coming artists the spotlight they deserve. Saturdays are reserved for international DJs, bringing underground house and techno stars into the club's intimate, high-energy setting. "While there's a place for the bigger venues, we're about going the other way," explains Hill. "We want to bring world-class artists back in front of the kinds of crowds that first shaped them. And we're shining a light on our residents, who have too often been overlooked in today's rave culture." Club Colette isn't just a club; it's part of a larger vision to transform Lower Trinity Street into a true cultural destination. With plans to incorporate food in 2025 and use all five arches for events, the venue creates a space where everyone can find their groove. "There really is something for everyone now," says Hill, highlighting the ambition behind the project. Before the official launch next year, Club Colette is offering a taste of what's to come with a special daytime party on 14th December. Teaming up with the Italian collective After Caposile and Birmingham's own CNTRL, the event will feature headliners Kepler and Francesco Maddalena, as well as residents Lopaski, Mizo, Mark Birch, and more. Expect a proper underground vibe across both rooms. Instagram: @club.colette Tickets for the Opening Party: Available here Club Colette is all set to shake up Digbeth's nightlife with a back-to-basics ethos and a fresh perspective. This is one opening you won't want to miss.

According to the first global study into AI's impact on the creative sectors, music industry workers are at risk of losing nearly a quarter of their income to artificial intelligence (AI) within the next four years. The research, led by the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC), predicts a 24% drop in income for music creators by 2028, while those in the audiovisual industry could face a 21% decline. In contrast, revenues from generative AI services are set to explode, growing from £3 billion today to an eye-watering £64 billion in just four years. Altogether, this represents an estimated €22 billion loss for creators—€10 billion in music and €12 billion in audiovisual production—against the backdrop of a booming generative AI market. "For creators of all kinds, from songwriters to film directors, AI has the potential to open up exciting new opportunities," said CISAC President Björn Ulvaeus. "But we must acknowledge that, if left unchecked, generative AI could cause significant harm to human creators, their careers, and their livelihoods." The study, which represents over five million creators globally, combines qualitative and quantitative research to assess AI's growing influence on music and audiovisual production. It serves as a stark warning about the need for clear regulation to ensure that innovation doesn't come at the expense of creativity. Read the complete study here.

fabric is marking 25 years of its iconic club, and FABRICLIVE mixes series with the launch of a brand-new record label and a series of videos reflecting on its legacy. The new FABRICLIVE label, which sits under the fabric Records umbrella alongside fabric Originals and jungle-focused Houndstooth, promises to showcase both established names and fresh talent. It will centre on “raw, emotional, and fast-paced sounds,” staying true to the brand’s roots in the UK’s underground music scene. Related: "SELECTS V" by fabric Originals: New Compilation with Sweely, Cinthie, Enzo Siragusa, Traumer & More “FABRICLIVE has always been at the heart of what makes fabric unique,” says Grace Flynn, FABRICLIVE booker. “This isn’t about relaunching—it’s about refocusing. It’s a way to celebrate 25 years of FABRICLIVE and look ahead, keeping the sounds of the UK at the core of everything we do.” As a mix series, FABRICLIVE ran from 2001 to 2018, spotlighting grime, drum ‘n’ bass, hip-hop, and more. It concluded with its 100th instalment, a landmark release by Kode9 and Burial. Now, the launch of a dedicated label gives the FABRICLIVE ethos a fresh platform to grow. “With the record label, we’re evolving FABRICLIVE for a new chapter—one that connects even more directly with our fans,” adds Flynn. To mark the occasion, fabric is also debuting a video series that looks back on FABRICLIVE’s impact over the decades. The first short film, featuring legendary UK MC Flowdan, offers a glimpse into the series’ cultural significance and enduring influence. This new chapter ensures that the spirit of FABRICLIVE continues to thrive, celebrating its past while driving forward the sounds of the future.

Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) has officially announced the dates for its highly anticipated 30th edition, which will take place from October 22 to 26, 2025. This monumental event will coincide with another significant milestone: Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary. The synergy between these two cultural giants promises to create an unforgettable celebration of music, art, and history, making ADE 2025 one of the most exciting editions yet. ADE’s 2024 edition marked a significant shift, unveiling a broader and more diverse conference and festival program, showcasing its commitment to evolving with the times. The event also embraced a renewed artistic direction under the ‘Arts & Culture’ umbrella, positioning itself as a festival and a broader cultural experience. Attendees were treated to an array of immersive performances, thought-provoking panels, and cutting-edge innovations across the electronic music spectrum, setting a new standard for future editions. Looking ahead to 2025, ADE will celebrate three decades of being at the forefront of global electronic music culture, with the added excitement of joining forces with Amsterdam 750. The city will be buzzing with activities throughout the year as it commemorates its 750 years of history, and ADE will play a pivotal role in closing out those celebrations in spectacular fashion. With Amsterdam’s vibrant music scene and deep cultural roots, the collaboration between ADE and Amsterdam 750 is set to enhance the festival’s scope, offering even more groundbreaking initiatives, pop-up performances, and cross-disciplinary collaborations. The ADE team has promised to unveil various special projects and partnerships tied to Amsterdam’s historic anniversary in the coming months. Stay tuned for further updates as the countdown to ADE 2025 begins. Both festival-goers and the global music community can expect a unique blend of world-class music, culture, and history in what promises to be a landmark year for Amsterdam and ADE alike. For more information and the latest news, visit www.amsterdam-dance-event.nl.