Main Photo: Christian Villareal
In one of Miami’s most important weeks; art, music, and really expensive bananas come together to indulge and celebrate life. During this fancy week, Rakastella festival has become a music centerpiece, and once more, they have delivered what they set out to do: A great party with some cutting-edge music in one of the best locations that the city has to offer.
Hosted at the spectacular Virginia Key and supported by some stellar weather, Rakastella (Finnish for ‘making love’) has become one of the most exciting festivals of late, which led by the crew from Life and Death and Innervisions, packed a lineup that included artists from multiple dance styles, breaking the “safe booking” mold and giving the opportunity to partygoers to hear other top-notch talent aside from the usual tech-house suspects.
After a light discussion with the security at the door, which by the way needs a basic course in event hospitality, we came to connect our magnetic bracelets to our credit cards. This was a good idea since in past events at this venue, the internet connection has been an issue.
The three-stage gathering boasted some unique sets from Jayda G, Tara Brooks, Ben UFO, Motor City Drum Ensemble, John Talabot, Ame Live, and label heads DJ Tennis and Dixon. But without a doubt we tip our hats to KiNK, showing us why his creativity, knowledge, and energy are at the center of what electronic music is, and should be. Ranging from a variety of styles, his performance was none other than brilliant, showcasing his flawless hardware technique. His exuberant energy adds more flavor to what is already one of the best electronic live acts ever.
Moving into the closing hours we were blessed by a memorable sunrise that was paired with b2b2b set by Dixon, Miami’s Danny Daze, and DJ Tennis, with special impromptu appearances by Oona Dahl, Motor City Drum Ensemble, and Will Renault.
Aside from the music, the festival doesn’t fail in terms of sound quality, food options, layout design, and drinking stations. They also spread a strong message of conservation awareness while becoming a plastic-free festival. Something that in a city like Miami that is surrounded by ocean waters, should take the initiative and completely ban its use.
Thank you Rakastella, we’ll see you next year.
