Photo Credit: Saylor Nedelman
After a 3 year hiatus, the Desert Hearts family made a nostalgic return for their 10-year anniversary at Lake Perris. Both familiar faces and world-class talent graced the dance floor with a re-energized attitude and new appreciation for what was lost during the pandemic. A community bonded through self-expression, fashion, & presence – a moment in which we found ourselves and moved as one again, superb selectors guided us on a much-awaited musical journey.
With a beautiful new lakeside venue, the Desert Hearts crew welcomed the most attendees in the festival’s history. Whether it was your first Desert Hearts, your fifth, or your tenth, the thoughtful event curation gave music-lovers the space to play and groove as they please. Individuality shined through people’s funky fits, silly totems, and decorative campsites.
There was a little something for everyone – Carl Craig schooled the crowd with the OG sounds of techno, DJ Harvey conducted an ethereal disco experience, and Super Flu embraced the playa with an organic, tribal sunset set. The energy from female artists was strong, too – with powerful performances from Anja Schneider, Tara Brooks, Francesca Lombardo, and more. The Desert Hearts crew spotlighted artists from all genres and corners of the industry – from local to legendary – and it was truly a gathering founded on a deep-rooted love for music and dance. It was a step forward into the future of the dance music community – one we didn’t know we needed but found ourselves thriving from nonetheless.