Festival News - Page 4 of 394 - Summer Festival Guide

77 Reveals Inaugural Season with David Morales, Brina Knauss, Adana Twins, Mano Le Tough, Nitefreak, Deep Dish, Olympe, Derrick Carter, Skepta, and Kerri Chandler.

September 26, 2025 by Alex Jukes

Tickets | Website | Instagram

Kerri Chandler, Skepta, Kasango,, Sparrow & Barbossa, Patrice Bäumel, Fiona Kraft, Brina Knauss, Olive F, Olympe, Julia Sandstorm, MOOJO, Agoria, Nitefreak, Omar-S, Adana Twins, David Morales, Deep Dish, Mano Le Tough and many more play the new Marylebone nightlife space

This September, 77 launches its inaugural Autumn/Winter season, marking a new cultural landmark in London. The 550 capacity, state-of-the-art venue, located beneath The BoTree in Marylebone, is designed for connection, creativity, and full-spectrum audio/visual experiences. Its forward-thinking programme of artists and events runs through to December, kicking off with a huge opening weekend on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 September with Kerri Chandler and Daisybelle, followed by Skepta, Meeshy, and OSSIE.

October sets a serious tone from the off when Pan-Pot plays a rare, extended house set on Fri 3 Oct. Derrick Carter takes over for an exclusive All Night Long session on Sat 11 Oct and Bontan alongside Kasango promises a powerful session on Sat 4 Oct. Rising talent Laolu (Sat 18 Oct), Parisian favourite Moojo (Fri 24 Oct), and cinematic electronic pioneer Agoria (Sat 25 Oct) round out the month.

Meanwhile, No Signal, the cult London radio platform, also runs four Thursday takeovers (2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd) during Black History Month for a focus on different African diasporas and the musical impact they have made across a broad mix of genres and global grooves.

November brings global energy with house, techno and soulful selectors from across the spectrum starting with Berlin’s deep house duo Adana Twins on Sat 1 Nov, US house innovator Serge Devant on Fri 7 Nov and Paris-based minimalist Fiona Kraft on Sat 8 Nov. Detroit’s own house maverick Marcellus Pittman plays a rare London set on Fri 14 Nov and two NYC titans David Morales (Fri 21 Nov) who plays all night and Victor Calderone (Sat 22 Nov) bring timeless house. The return of legendary dance duo Deep Dish on Fri 28 Nov is a major moment for fans of classic progressive grooves and rising star Brina Knauss wraps up the month with depth and emotion on Sat 29 Nov. Also in November, Zamna kicks off a new monthly residency which draws from the cult festival’s exotic world of sound and rich celebration of indigenous culture.

December delivers FXHE label head and Motor City icon Omar S playing an unmissable set on Fri 5 Dec, followed by Greece’s Echonomist on Sat 6 Dec. French upstart Olympe headlines Fri 12 Dec, before Mano Le Tough closes the season with signature melodic elegance on Sat 13 Dec.

With its L-Acoustics sound system and KS21 subs, 77 is designed for sound that’s felt and not just heard. A visual system of Robe lighting, strobes, CO2 jets, lasers and LED screens heightens the experience.

The club is led by a trio of nightlife veterans: Jonathan Wade (formerly of Tao Group), Eniz Hilmi (Rinse FM, Mas Tiempo), and Sebastian Banovic (KOKO, Tramp, The Roof Gardens), each bringing deep experience across music, culture and hospitality, and have put all of their know how into creating an irresistible first season.

With a calendar stacked full of dance music heavyweights and rising underground talent, 77 is set to level up London’s nightlife with high-impact experiences each and every week.

Head to 77london.com to pre-register for best priced tickets.

77 Welbeck Street London, W1G 0BB

Autumn/Winter 2025

September

Fri 26 Sept – Kerri Chandler, Daisybelle

Sat 27 Sept – Skepta, Ossie, Meeshy

October

Fri 3 Oct – Pan-Pot (Extended House Set), Timanti

Sat 4 Oct – Bontan, Kasango, NenaHalena

Thu 9 Oct – No Signal presents: Diaspora Dance – Southern Groove

Fri 10 Oct – Dorian Craft b2b Baron, Sparrow & Barbossa, RedFreya

Sat 11 Oct – Derrick Carter (All Night Long)

Fri 17 Oct – Patrice Bäumel, Michael Mayer

Sat 18 Oct – Laolu, Bun Xapa, Nadia Summer

Thu 23 Oct – No Signal presents: Diaspora Dance – Black Britannia

Fri 24 Oct – Moojo, Kotto

Sat 25 Oct – Agoria, Antare

Fri 31 Oct – Nitefreak, Kotto

November

Sat 1 Nov – Adana Twins, Nowa

Fri 7 Nov – Serge Devant, Nena Halena

Sat 8 Nov – Fiona Kraft, Timanti

Fri 14 Nov – Marcellus Pittman

Sat 15 Nov – Alan Dixon

Fri 21 Nov – David Morales (All Night Long)

Sat 22 Nov – Victor Calderone, Chesster

Thu 27 Nov – Zamna Takeover

Fri 28 Nov – Deep Dish, Night Waves

Sat 29 Nov – Brina Knauss, Max Menaged

December

Fri 5 Dec – Omar S, Olive F

Sat 6 Dec – Echonomist, Nowa

Fri 12 Dec – Olympe, Julia Sandstorm

Sat 13 Dec – Mano Le Tough, Nowa

Thu 18 Dec – Zamna Takeover

Sat 20 Dec – Special Guest TBC

SXM Festival announces first round of names for 9th Edition

September 24, 2025 by Alex Jukes

Carl Cox, Deep Dish, Elderbrook (DJ set), Lee Burridge, Andhim, Layton Giordani and more will all perform at the 2026 edition

Date: March 18 – 22, 2026

Location: Saint Martin, the Caribbean

Tickets & travel Information: www.sxmfestival.com

The world’s most idyllic dancefloor calls once again as SXM Festival returns for a five-day music, art, and cultural odyssey in Saint Martin, the Caribbean, from March 18 – 22, 2026.

The ninth edition of this globally renowned gathering returns to the breathtaking island for deep immersion on one of the Caribbean’s most naturally stunning islands. With its Phase One lineup now revealed, the countdown begins for a week of unforgettable sunrises, oceanfront dancefloors, secret jungle stages and world-class music.

Whether you’re drawn to the Sunrise Party, where golden light bathes the beach in rhythm, or the legendary Panorama Party, set atop the island’s highest peak with 360° views of the island, SXM Festival is an unforgettable escape perfectly framed by hot sun, twinkling stars, white sand, lush jungle, and handcrafted design.

Over five curated days, SXM offers an experience unlike any other. It is a unique chance to explore a magical world of beach parties where the sand turns to dancefloor, sunrise sessions that start your day with deep, emotional energy, jungle raves hidden among palm trees and lush foliage, exclusive villa parties that redefine private luxury, The Panorama Party – an iconic SXM highlight atop the island’s highest point, plus pop-up food and culture experiences from local legends and visiting chefs and art installations and decor curated to blend beautifully into the island’s environment.

From bohemian hideaways to architectural marvels, each location is carefully chosen to complement Saint Martin’s raw natural beauty—a core ethos of SXM since its inception in 2016.

SXM Festival’s first wave of talent for 2026 brings a masterful blend of house and techno legends, live innovators and underground risers. Carl Cox, one of the most influential DJs of all time, will make his long-awaited SXM Festival debut after over a decade of performing in the Caribbean. Deep Dish, the Grammy-winning duo, return to the global stage and reunite for a tropical performance. Elderbrook, celebrated for his chart-topping hits and genre-bending live shows, brings a special DJ set to the island. Lee Burridge, pioneer of All Day I Dream, will once again deliver his signature sunrise sounds and claim back his crown at one of the most anticipated events of the week. Germany’s Andhim, known for their playful and melodic approach to house, join the bill, alongside Layton Giordani, one of tech-house’s brightest rising stars.

The lineup also features Spencer Brown, beloved for his progressive journeys, Natascha Polké with a full live performance, and Eli Fola, presenting his unique hybrid DJ set of Afro sounds and live saxophone and drums. Fresh talent includes Marten Lou, Maxi Meraki, Nimino, Rafael, Sistek, Yet More, Lumia, and the return of the charismatic &Friends, rounding out a first wave that embodies the festival’s balance of established icons and boundary-pushing new voices.

“SXM Festival was born to unite people from all over the world in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Phase One gives just a glimpse of the journey we’re creating for 2026 – a celebration of music, art, and community alongside the Caribbean’s magical backdrop” said festival founder Julian Prince.

SXM Festival is deeply committed to sustainability, local culture and elevated travel. Guests are encouraged to explore the island from culinary adventures and catamaran cruises to guided hikes, and eco-tourism experiences. Throughout the week, the festival works in harmony with the local community, investing in eco-conscious infrastructure, supporting local artists and artisans, and creating economic opportunities for residents.

LINEUP A-Z

&Friends

Andhim

Carl Cox

Deep Dish

Elderbrook (DJ Set)

Eli Fola (Hybrid)

Kadosh

Layton Giordani

Lee Burridge

Lumia

Marten Lou

Maxi Meraki

Natascha Polké (Live)

Nimino (DJ Set)

Rafael

Sistek

Spencer Brown

Tripolism

Yamagucci

Yet More

AFRICA RISING MUSIC CONFERENCE ANNOUNCES 2026 RETURN

September 19, 2025 by Alex Jukes

Africa Rising Music Conference Launches for 2026, leading the way for the growth of Africa’s music industry

After the stellar success of its 2025 edition, Africa Rising Music Conference is excited to announce its return to Constitution Hill, Johannesburg on 22–23 May 2026. With artist and speaker applications now open (deadline: 25 September 2025), and tickets officially on sale, ARMC is once again championing underrepresented voices and innovation in the global music ecosystem.

Year-on-Year Growth & Social Impact – ARMC continues its momentum
The 2025 edition broke all previous records, welcoming 1000+ registered attendees from across South Africa and the globe, representing countries including the UK, Germany, Luxembourg, Sweden, Switzerland, the US, and beyond. ARMC hosted 76 speakers from 7 countries, with 58% of attendees identifying as female, further reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity. Over 140 jobs were created during the six-month build-up to the conference in 2025 in areas such as content creation, sound, staging, and event production.

Social media also saw exponential growth, with over 630,700+ Instagram views between March and May 2025, and projected follower numbers expected to surpass 10,000 by 2026. Key audience hubs included Johannesburg (13.2%), Cape Town (10.3%), and Nairobi (4.7%), while South Africa, Kenya, and Germany led the top five countries engaging with ARMC online.

This year’s Cradle Crew initiative brought 15 underserved rural youth to the event — next year, the aim is to scale to 100 beneficiaries.

2025 Highlights & Real-World Outcomes
Busiswa launched her newest EP Honey & Grace — produced in Berlin via the SAMPRA Development Fund in partnership with ARMC and Paradise Worldwide. Strategic partnerships like Jägermeister’s Global Pass saw KMAT perform at Ibiza’s International Music Summit, Money Badoo traveling to Germany to perform at Reeperbahn Festival, Europe’s biggest cub festival with more exports to be announced soon. The first-ever Mamas in Music roundtable also took place at ARMC 2025 and featured icons like Yvonne Chaka Chaka and was more than just a conversation. It became the launchpad for a new community – the official Africa Chapter of Mamas in Music which will be launched in the coming weeks.

Get Involved — Apply & Attend
Artist & Speaker Applications are now open until 15th October 2025. Selected UK-based artists may receive travel support via PRS Foundation, Goethe-Institute, British Council, and other mobility schemes.

Artist Applications: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScPpXIv0XYc2APe_Y4vein0rCp7AmxVcQoWtRRo7oyIo_5G2Q/viewform?usp=dialog

Speaker Applications:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfWcBrvfaeLYefG1cWcW-U_FAEHMJeO8NhLFAA6PHvRvHK3UQ/viewform?usp=dialog

Tickets
Tickets to daytime talks, workshops, and showcases are now available via Quicket. The first 100x tickets are FREE. Limited VIP tickets are available (includes exclusive sessions, networking, & lounge access).

ARMC 2026 Tickets: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/321748-africa-rising-music-conference-2026/

Why ARMC 2026 Matters
ARMC isn’t just a conference — it’s a catalyst for growth. In just five years, it has evolved from a local meet-up to a high-impact global platform that creates real opportunities.

What You’ll Experience at ARMC 2026
Thought-leadership panels, high-impact keynotes, hands-on workshops and electrifying artist showcases through “ARMC by Night” can be expected at ARMC 2026 at Constitution Hill. In addition to that, ARMC will expand their focus on tech and innovation with their demo labs as well as strategic industry networking.

Join Us in 2026 at Constitution Hill to amplify African creativity worldwide.

Apply by 15 October  2025

BLOODSTOCK ANNOUNCES 27 MORE BANDS FOR 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

October 13, 2025September 16, 2025 by Anna Hyams

As plans for BLOODSTOCK’s 25th anniversary get underway, the festival has unveiled another 27 bands for 2026’s monumental event. With heavyweights, cult favourites, and rising stars joining the awesome bands already announced, this year’s line-up is shaping up to be one for the ages. And there are still plenty more names yet to come, with approximately 125 bands in total set to appear. Did you know? BLOODSTOCK is going to open the Ronnie James Dio main stage on Thursday now as well! Early bird, campervan, and VIP tickets are already sold out and weekend tickets are over 90% gone, so act quickly to get tickets if you don’t want to miss out!
And so to the bands…

THURSDAY – RONNIE JAMES DIO STAGE

Headlining the opening night on the Ronnie James Dio main stage are none other than British heavy metal legends SAXON. With over four decades of anthems and an iron-clad reputation for blistering live shows, SAXON’s triumphant return to BLOODSTOCK will kick off the weekend in classic style. Expect a masterclass in pure heavy metal power.

Also joining Thursday’s main stage are BLOODSTOCK favourites EVIL SCARECROW, who bring their eccentric, theatrical brand of tongue-in-cheek metal mayhem, and HEAVYSAURUS, the dinosaur-costumed heroes delivering family-friendly metal fun. Previously announced for the Sophie Lancaster stage, HEAVYSAURUS now stomp onto the RJD stage for maximum roar.

FRIDAY – RONNIE JAMES DIO STAGE

Prepare for the unnerving, true crime inspired, industrial sounds of SKYND, the outrageous brutal slamming, death metal riot of PARTY CANNON, and the serpentine heavy rock theatrics of BATTLESNAKE.

SATURDAY – RONNIE JAMES DIO STAGE

Warm up your necks, thrash-fuelled crossover aggression comes courtesy of London’s INHUMAN NATURE, flying the flag for the new generation of feral thrash.

SUNDAY – RONNIE JAMES DIO STAGE

Closing the weekend in ferocious style, BLOODSTOCK is thrilled to host the BLOODSTOCK debut of Canadian alt-metal pioneers KITTIE. Joining them are occult doom bringers CASTLE RAT – all hail the Rat Queen, boundary-smashing modern hardcore crew GRAPHIC NATURE, and Wild West metal rabble rousers BOOTYARD BANDITS (from Worcester no less).

FRIDAY – SOPHIE LANCASTER STAGE

Unleash the chaos with German grindcore absurdists EXCREMENTORY GRINDFUCKERS, Australian thrash squad HIDDEN INTENT, UK medieval power metallers SELLSWORD, Danish death metal beasts NECKBREAKKER, electro nu-core party-starters SEETHING AKIRA, and rising Scottish extreme metal outfit HAMMER.

SATURDAY – SOPHIE LANCASTER STAGE

Expect no compromises from UK hardcore institution STAMPIN GROUND, genre-bending heavy hitters URNE, death metal purists CELESTIAL SANCTUARY, swaggering stoner rock bruisers VIKING SKULL, down-tempo brutality from BOUND IN FEAR, technical groove maestros IMPERIUM, and amphibian doom oddballs FROGLORD.

SUNDAY – SOPHIE LANCASTER STAGE

Round off the weekend with the masked industrial spectacle of MUSHROOMHEAD, soaring alt-rockers DREAM STATE, and blackened extremists TRIVAX.

CHARITY FUNDS RAISED AT BLOODSTOCK 2025

BLOODSTOCK is also proud to share the incredible fundraising achievements from the 2025 event, supporting charity partners Metal For Good and The Sophie Lancaster Foundation. Guest & media donations raised a fantastic £11,698, with the always popular T-shirt Amnesty adding another £2,120, making a grand total of £13,818 – split equally to provide £6,909 for each charity. In addition, Shepherd Events, who run the BLOODSTOCK bars, made an extra contribution to The Sophie Lancaster Foundation by donating bar tips and running ‘spin to win’ competitions, plus Christopher Roberts and Taylan Rodgers, who worked tirelessly on the bars all weekend, generously donated their entire earnings. That pooled £1725 and Alan Shepherd then rounded it up to give The Sophie Lancaster Foundation an additional £2000.

Katy Baker, Co-Founder of Metal For Good, said:“We have been blown away by the generous support of the Bloodstock team and their wonderful festival goers. We raised a huge amount of money from our stand and through donations from the festival and the merch amnesty, all of which will support incredible community projects using music to change lives. The weekend itself was amazing, so many great bands, smiley faces and brilliant partners – including The Sophie Lancaster Foundation, who we are honoured to share the charity donations with. Thank you to everyone for putting on such an incredible event!”

New Venue ‘77’ Reveals Skepta and Kerri Chandler for landmark Opening Weekend in London

September 12, 2025 by Alex Jukes

Tickets | Website | Instagram

Hidden beneath Marylebone’s The BoTree, a new frequency in the capital’s nightlife begins. 77 is an intimate, high-spec destination designed for deep sonic visual immersion and real dance floor connections. To mark the launch of this bold new space, 77 opens with two genre-defining icons across a landmark opening weekend.

And it all starts on Friday, 26 September with New Jersey deep house pioneer Kerri Chandler. The American has long been shaping the sound with his famously punchy kicks and soul-infused records that always come from the heart, with support from Puerto Rico-born DJ Daisybelle, whose groovy, soulful sets draw on disco, funk, Latin, Balearic, and house influences.

On Saturday, 27 September, legendary grime pioneer, Más Tiempo boss and founding Boy Better Know member Skepta steps up for one of his eclectic DJ sets. The three-time Brit Awards nominee is a fearless selector who mixes up all forms of house, garage, bass, and plenty of in-between sounds that tap into a rich lineage of party-starting UK sound, with support from tech house DJ Meeshy, a rising name in London’s scene known for her energetic, groove-driven sets, and OSSIE, the London based artist and DJ whose forward-thinking productions have landed on crucial imprints like Hyperdub, Madhouse, Exploited and Brownswood, making him a fixture of cutting-edge electronic music.

Eniz Hilmi, Director of Music, says: “We’ve designed 77 to deliver the same world-class production experience you’d expect from a huge venue, whilst ensuring the connection between the artist and the audience is at the forefront. Our focus is on creating a one-of-a-kind experience where both DJs and live acts can truly connect with the crowd. That’s why we’re thrilled to be welcoming Skepta and Kerri Chandler for our opening weekend – two artists who embody everything we stand for.”

The venue is fully soundproofed and acoustically treated, making it an adaptable setting for club nights, album launches, fashion events and brand activations. Every detail, from the modular design to the service style, has been shaped to heighten connection between artists and audiences.

Behind 77 is a team of industry leaders: Jonathan Wade, nightlife veteran and former Tao Group executive; Eniz Hilmi, tastemaker and programmer with credits across Rinse FM, Mas Tiempo and a host of major UK festivals; and Sebastian Banovic, hospitality operator with experience across some of London’s most iconic venues including KOKO, The Roof Gardens and Tramp. Together, they’ve turned an idea into a cultural movement, creating a space where music, people and culture stand together on equal footing.

The Opening Weekend events set a high benchmark from the off, with much more to come. Tickets will be available at ra.co from 12 noon on Wednesday 10 September.

New Dance Club Refuge NYC Drops Opening Season Lineups

September 12, 2025 by Alex Jukes

Floorplan, DJ Seinfeld, Paranoid London, Antal, Stacey Pullen, Kenny Larkin, Danilo Plessllow (MCDE) and more play in September and October

Refuge NYC is Brooklyn’s brand new, high-definition dance club that opens its doors with a series of carefully curated events that usher in a raw, unfiltered return to underground music culture and community with bold lineups featuring Floorplan, DJ Seinfeld, Paranoid London (Live), Stacey Pullen, Antal, Kenny Larkin, Danilo Plessllow (MCDE) and many more.

This fall, John Dimatteo and legendary sound system innovator Craig ‘Shorty’ Bernabeu unveil Refuge, a sanctuary for high-fidelity sound and pure dancefloor connection. Located in a standalone industrial complex dating back to the mid-1800s in the creative corridor between East Williamsburg and Bushwick, the venue has been fully reimagined by Dimatteo and Bernabeu with one purpose: to prioritise sound, space and spirit above all else.

The heart of Refuge is its custom-built REX analog sound system, a 10-foot tall, 4-point creation by Shorty, who is the mind behind legendary installs at Nowadays and Analog BKNY. Hand-built amplifiers, bespoke filters and rotary mixers deliver a warm, rich sound that remains full and easy on the ears.

Inside the club, details have been carefully engineered to enhance every moment from the floated Malpe wood dancefloor built to absorb shock and return energy, to the custom DJ booth, acoustic design by Al Fierstein of Acoustilog (Studio 54, Sound Factory) and 35-foot ceilings and original brickwork that preserves the venue’s historic character. Nightlife visionary Gregory Homs (Sound Factory, The Tunnel) is also on board as the creative director tasked with pushing the NYC legacy forward with an eye on innovation and authenticity. Zero residential restrictions allow for true late-night and after-hours sessions in the 500-capacity, 3,200 sq ft space.

Says Dimatteo, “We’re proud to unveil our first line-ups and show what we’re all about: namely serious sounds only from a mix of originators who shaped house and techno to DJs defining the sound of the NYC underground and European talents developing the conversation on their own terms. This is just the start, we’re confident that we have created a place for everyone to call home”

The venue launches on September 21 with a double-header Sunday ’preview’ program including a day party featuring Rush Hour label and record store founder and globe trotting crate digger Antal, twin sister DJ duo and New York deep house favs Analog Soul and the vital Razor-N-Tape crew, followed by an intimate night session with the euphoric, genre-spanning sounds of DJ Seinfeld.

From there, Refuge leans into its marathon ethos with a Grand Opening Marathon across September 27–28 and a 24-hour (or longer) dancefloor journey led by Detroit techno royalty Floorplan, rough and ready acid house punks Paranoid London (Live), the Motor City’s space tech innovator DJ Holographic, The Bunker resident and master of deep tech Mike Servito, plus Miss Parker, Bruno Schmidt and others.

On October 4, Danilo Plessllow (fka MCDE) brings his dusty house and disco sounds, the inimitable Dam Funk (Live) will mix up neon synths, funk and brilliant boogie with support from Lloyd, and on October 11, more Detroit pioneers line up when Blackflag’s Stacey Pullen and the OG Kenny Larkin are joined by Heidy P., John Dimatteo, Michelangelo and Kofman .

Refuge is built on principles, not gimmicks, so phones are discouraged, there’s no VIP and no bottle service, just a return to uninhibited dance culture. All parties will permit re-entry with food and coffee fueling the dancing marathon sessions. Full programming will span open-to-close sessions, Sunday day parties and true after-hours.

Tickets for the opening parties are on sale now at: eventbrite.com

Refuge will be located at 360 Ten Eyck Street, Brooklyn, NY, 11206

For more information on Refuge head to: refuge.nyc / @Refuge.NYC

Peak Moods Announces Free Courtyard Party with Play Piem, Better Listening and Wing Stop at Ministry of Sound

September 12, 2025 by Alex Jukes

Thursday 18 September

Ministry of Sound, 6pm-10pm, Free Entry

Sign up for free tickets here; https://itspeakatministry.london/

Ministry of Sound has teamed up with Peak, the game-changing new ‘Mood Drink’ brand that’s fuelling a new generation of artists, thinkers and makers, to create a one-of-a-kind party with two different experiences reflecting the two different drinks, Hype and Calm. Together, they are blending music, art, nightlife, wellness and innovation to showcase some of London’s most exciting cultural elements, bringing them under one roof in a truly multi-faceted collaboration.

Following Ministry adding a fresh no/lo option by putting Peak Hype and Calm behind all four bars and in the Green Room, the event series collaboration launches with a free and immersive “Choose Your Mood” Courtyard Party during Freshers’ Week on Thursday 18 September. The unique experience brings together a fresh lineup of DJs, food, fashion, and art to celebrate individuality, mood expression and creativity.

Says Joe (Head of Marketing) at Ministry of Sound, “Ministry has always been about pushing culture forward and creating spaces where music, creativity and community collide. Partnering with Peak allows us to explore that in fresh ways, bringing music, creativity and individuality together under one roof. We were particularly drawn to Peak due to its positioning as a “Mood Drink” – with the two signatures ‘Hype’ and ‘Calm’. This launch party will explore both of these and is just the start of what promises to be a really exciting journey…There’s plenty more to come.”

Set across two rooms at Ministry of Sound, the event is designed to reflect Peak’s two signature drinks: Hype and Calm. Far from your average energy drink, Peak is a “Mood Drink” designed to support and heighten your state of mind and wellbeing. Whether you’re in the studio, the gym or getting ready for a night out, Peak lets you choose your mood with Hype for dopamine-driven focus and lift, and Calm for serotonin chill and clarity. Both function as stand-alone drinks or as the base for the perfect cocktail and are backed by real science.

Says Louie from Peak, “We created Peak to give people a choice in how they feel – whether you want to dial up with Hype or dial down with Calm. It’s for people who want to have fun and party without sacrificing their health, a drink that fits the studio, the gym or a night out. Teaming up with Ministry lets us bring that idea to life in a way people can actually experience.”

Hype in the Courtyard is for Peak party vibes hosted by Play Piem, who bring their full sound system and since launching in 2022 have been a driving force in the new era of Black British nightlife known for platforming exciting new talent in Paris, London and NYC. Adding extra levels and vibes in the Courtyard will be Wingstop who will serve up their legendary chicken wings free of charge, exclusive tattoos by The London Social and custom grillz by Loud Mouth. The first 100 attendees will also receive a free glass of Champeak plus more exclusive giveaways throughout the night.

Calm in The Box, meanwhile, is a bold and never done before transformation of a world renowned club environment into a cosy and intimate candle-lit listening space. This unique listening experience is for introspection and laid-back grooves from Better Listening, which was created by David, co-founder of No Signal And Recess, and has an obsession for high quality and focused listening sessions in soulful spaces. Special guests Channel One will be putting the legendary 6-point Martin Audio sound system through its paces with a fine curation of seriously heavyweight roots and rare dubs. Add in luxury candles by Cent and visuals by Kino Studios and you have a seductive sensory experience like no other.

The Ministry of Sound × Peak partnership continues with a string of creative moments through Autumn 2025 including a Peckham Cornershop takeover and VIP Takeover at the Mak 10 Show at Ministry of Sound.

Sign up now for free entry at https://itspeakatministry.london/

Halfmoon Festival Reveals Next Wave of Line-Ups For A Dream Winter Getaway in the Thai Jungle

September 11, 2025 by Alex Jukes

halfmoonfestival.com

Names like Blazy, Blastoyz, Ghost Rider and Reality Test are set to light up the Magical Forest on Koh Phangan from now until December

As Europe heads into winter and the festival calendar quiets down, Thailand’s iconic Halfmoon Festival is heating up and offering the perfect way to escape it all. From now through December 2025, Koh Phangan’s open-air jungle celebration will host a fresh run of bi-weekly shows featuring major international talent including WHITENO1SE, Blazy, Querox Berg, Ghost Rider, Blastoyz, Silver Panda, Mr.Black, Blanka, Ranji, Tezla, Reality Test, IRA, Tali Muss, Don’t Blink, Dirty Andy and Javier Gonzalez.

As the northern hemisphere heads into cold, grey months, Halfmoon offers the perfect alternative with sunshine, sea views, incredible music and a global community of like-minded travellers. Over more than two decades, Halfmoon Festival has been a bucket list getaway bridging international electronic culture with local artistry, spectacular visual performance and soul-stirring and spiritual celebration. For content creators, travel influencers, music lovers and thrill-seekers alike, this is the ultimate winter destination.

With its unique two-day format and famously high definition and super sized production, all in idyllic island setting, Halfmoon Festival has long offered one of the most transportive dance music experiences in the world. From beach bliss to forest rave, each edition kicks off at the stunning Harmony Beach Club where you ease in with beachside beats, fire dancers and exotic performers, making for plenty of daytime fun. There are pool parties, games and endless tropical cocktails to enjoy as the sun sets over the Gulf of Thailand and leads into day two.

The second night then transforms the Magical Forest into a surreal nighttime playground. Surrounded by palms and jungle canopy, three custom-built stages – The Prime Stage, G Floor, and The Cave – are all curated with their own soundtrack and host everything from melodic techno and psychedelic trance to house, indie, hip-hop and experimental live sets. Fire shows, LED visuals and vivid production make this a vibrant, sensory stimulating rave like no other.

With over 2,000 accommodation options on the island ranging from beachside bungalows to luxury resorts, Koh Phangan offers easy access to wellness retreats, waterfalls, hiking, local markets and the festival itself. Daily ferries from Koh Samui and a growing number of direct flights into Surat Thani and Samui Airport mean it’s never been easier to escape to paradise.

For full artist lineups, ticket packages and travel tips heads to www.halfmoonfestival.com

For more information about this unreal weekend experience visit halfmoonfestival.com.

Blacklist Festival Unveils Full Lineup for 2025 Edition at Turbinenhalle, Oberhausen

September 9, 2025 by Alex Jukes

New Additions Include Whales, Bou B2B Hedex, Flowidus, Holy Goof, Koven, VISSA’s floor takeover and more

Date: 11th October, 2025

Location: Turbinenhalle in Oberhausen

Website | Tickets | Instagram

Germany’s Blacklist Festival cements its place as the premier bass event of the year, unveiling the full lineup for its highly anticipated return to Turbinenhalle in Oberhausen on October 11, 2025. Following an already explosive phase one reveal, the final additions bring even more global firepower across dubstep, trap, drum and bass, bass house and beyond. In all, over 50 acts will serve up 12 hours of music across four high-production stages for 7,000 bass fans from across the world. It’s an unmissable day of immersive production, heavyweight sets and unmatched atmosphere in an industrial temple of sound.

Newly announced highlights include Whales bringing his melodic-meets-heavy bass sound to the Blacklist stage, Bou B2B Hedex, who are two of the most in-demand DnB producers and team up for an explosive b2b, while high-octane energy comes from Australian / New Zealand drum & bass duo Flowidus, marking their only announced European date of the year so far.

Elsewhere, multi-genre maverick Holy Goof promises his signature bassline and UKG hybrid sounds, Koven is a cinematic UK powerhouse known for electric live sets that collide trap, bass, house and drum & bass, and Mozey, Used and Murdock represent the cutting edge of the drum & bass underground.

There will also be a special floor takeover by ultimate rave practitioners VISSA featuring a genre-blurring mix of talent and collectives including Autodrive, Hammerhead, Explorers of the Internet, EH!DE, Terminite, Gladde Palling, Different Heaven, Dubtendo and STVG.

These names join a stacked lineup that already features Black Tiger Sex Machine, Sullivan King, DJ Snake presents: The Outlaw, Habstrakt, Code: Pandorum, Reaper, Modestep (Classics Set) and many more.

Known for championing both mainstage heavy-hitters and forward-thinking underground artists, Blacklist has grown into a cultural movement for the European bass community. Each year it transforms Turbinenhalle into a true bass haven with smart curation and mind-bending lights and visuals on a scale that cannot be experienced anywhere else.

Tickets are now available, starting from 45€, with VIP options also on offer. For the full lineup, travel info, and more visit https://blacklist-festival.com

Bootshaus Cologne announces action-packed Autumn and Winter events schedule

September 9, 2025 by Alex Jukes

Dates: September – December
Location: Cologne, Germany
Website | Instagram | Youtube

Events including Meduza, Above & Beyond, Unreal WKND, elrow, Nibirii w. Oguz, Kevin de Fries, Kölsch, Blacklist Festival and more

Germany’s world-renowned Bootshaus is gearing up for a typically fiery Autumn/Winter season packed with genre-defying sounds and boundary-pushing lineups. Across multiple sounds and scenes from melodic house to techno, hardstyle, bass, dubstep and more, Bootshaus continues its legacy of delivering unmatched and uncompromising energy and cutting-edge artists in an industrial-chic setting.

Since its rebirth in 2005 after originally being founded in 1991 as Warehouse, Bootshaus has become celebrated not just as a nightclub, but as an electronic music institution. There are no VIPs, no bottle service, no posers and no nonsense but affordable tickets and a powerhouse roster of in-house brands like Loonyland, Blacklist, Unreal, and Nibirii.

The venue consistently delivers immersive experiences that blur the lines between club night and theatrical production, all housed in a converted shipyard warehouse with three distinct spaces: the cavernous main room, the gritty BLCKBX and the intimate Dreherei, each outfitted with state-of-the-art sound systems from Funktion-One to Seeburg Audio and spectacular visual effects, including strobes, lasers, flamethrowers and more.

Highlights of the new season include 19 September with chart topping Italian house outfit Meduza and 26 and 27 September when Unreal WKND offers two back-to-back nights of relentless hard techno.

Into October, Marten Lou (112) x Solar offer more crossover dance sounds, two genre legends Hakke & Paul Elstak invite you to dive deep into high-impact hardstyle. On the 17th of October, Hardstyle returns with Hardbrake’s high-voltage rhythms to rev up your weekend, the 18th is Nibirii featuring Oguz for a dark, atmospheric hard techno showcase featuring one of the most intriguing names in the scene.

14th November is Chrome, a night inspired by the raw, unfiltered energy of Berghain-style techno, 15th is Wonderful Days, a throwback event revisiting acts and anthems for retro lovers.

On 5th December, global legends Above & Beyond mark a spectacular shift to melodic, euphoric techno and on 12th December, Elrow brings a crazy, immersive and colourful carnival to town then on 13th Kevin de Vries and Kölsch serve up emotive house and tech-house magic.

Bootshaus’s fearless approach has earned it unparalleled acclaim and it continues to rank among the world’s top clubs

Events List

19.09 Meduza
26.09 Unreal WKND

27.09 Unreal WKND
02.10 Marten Lou (112) x (Solar)

04.10 Tchami b2b AC Slater

10.10 Hakke & Paul Elstak

11.10 Blacklist Festival
17.10 Hardbrake

18.10.Nibirii w. Oguz
14.11 Chrome
15.11 Wonderful Days
05.12 Above & Beyond
12.12 Elrow
13.12 Kevin de Vries / Kölsch