Gesaffelstein brings a new wave of French Techno to Electric Zoo 2012
If you're a frequent visitor of Dancing Astronaut, then you know Gesaffelstein is one of my favorite rising talents. The Parisian native -- who's real name is Mike Levy -- has been creating quite the buzz on the dance music scene this year. From flawless mixing to superb track selection, Gesaffelstein is an act I will continue to keep my eyes on -- and given the opportunity to see a live performance, you dont have to think twice -- I'll be there.
Pretty Lights closes out the first day of Electric Zoo 2012
My musical journey began with hip hop and no matter where it's takes me I will always feel a deep connection to the genre that first made me truly feel music -- instead of just hear it. So, it makes sense that out of all the DJs on the Electric Zoo bill I was most excited for Pretty Lights, whose set would inevitably include his own hip hop infused productions. By straying outside the boundaries of the genre Derek Vincent Smith, the man behind the moniker, has made himself a mistfit within the electronic dance music world. However, he's not the "uncool," outcast kind of misfit but the kind who is shrouded in unpredictable, idiosyncratic mystery. When he stepped on stage to take his place behind the glowing, rainbow throne that awaited his arrival he proved that being an outcast is not so bad after all.
Electric Zoo 2012 Day 2: Memorable moments from Randall’s Island
Our second day on Randall's island was hotter and more hectic than the first. With a massive influx of concertgoers and a slew of big name progressive headliners, Saturday at Electric Zoo finally embodied the "zoo" aesthetic. All tents were packed to the brim with energetic fans, braving the heat and humidity to see their favorite acts. With names like Axwell, Dada Life, Wolfgang Gartner, Rusko, Above & Beyond, Steve Aoki, and Sasha on the lineup, there was a sound to satisfy anyone's tastes -- and plenty of security guards with hoses to keep them the crowds cool.
Electric Zoo Artist Spotlight: Pierce Fulton
At 20-years-old, Pierce Fulton's rise through the ranks of the dance music community has been nothing short of impressive. In a relentless spree of massive club compositions, Pierce has managed to achieve most American college kids' dreams - to tour not just the country, but the entire world. Pierce's transition can be attributed to his genuine passion for music and his unrelenting desire to innovate. A DJ's DJ, Pierce does not restrict himself to radio friendly fare or pre-mapped out sets instead, he plays to the crowd and for the crowd - a rare talent that has been replaced in recent years with predictable and yawn-worthy sets and tired execution.