Opening a day earlier for 2017, the campgrounds started to fill on Thursday evening with the big musical performances kicking off on Friday and running through the arguable highlight of Sunday evening with epic sets by Congo Natty, Laughing Buddha and a BtoB on the Noisily Stage of Dominik Eulberg and Gabriel Ananda.
Beardyman delivered an unforgettable live performance engaging thousands at the Treehouse Stage, lifting the energy right into the treetops. The Leisure Center and Pablo Discobar were small stages but consistent in their solid lineup and I met at least one person who said she’s spent her whole weekend parked there catching sets that ranged from hiphop to dub to techhouse. Trance fans were loyal to the Liquid Stage receiving some of their heroes including Atmos and Burn In Noise. Overall the music was fantastic with other highlights including performances by Zen Mechanics, Nanoplex, Michael Mayer, Unique Repeat and Acid Pauli.
For those seeking a bit of introspection and relaxation to balance their wicked basslines, the expanded Mind, Body & Soul area offered classes in yoga and tantra, slackline and cacoa ceremonies as well as some great talks on topics like Integrative Mindfulness by Monica Gomes-Yokes, and the power of electronic music to create community by Professor Stretch.
Between the diversity of ages and musical styles as well as gorgeous art installations found in the woods (The Hanging Pagoda was literally breathtaking!) the organizers deserve a massive hats off for creating one of the most memorable and intimate dance music-focused festivals I’ve attended in recent years. Truly a beautiful weekend. Can’t wait to see what they deliver in 2018!
Photos by Summer Forest
