It’s finally 2020, and the year is already off to a blazing start. From the memes to the dad jokes, it’s clear media lovers are wasting no time in moving away from 2019 as quickly as possible. But here at We Dream Worlds, we’re a bit more sentimental, especially when it comes to those year-end raves we all know and love. As we look back fondly on 2019, it’s the most recent festivals that best define 2019’s EDM trends and culture. Let’s review a few favorites.
AUDIOTISTIC SO-CAL
Following its NorCal predecessor, this one-day event at the NOS Event Center didn’t disappoint. Although lacking the same rap and hip hop influences that usually frequent the Shoreline Amphitheater incarnation, Audiotistic SoCal more than compensated by featuring two stages: Frequency 1.1 for more dubstep and bass, and Frequency 2.2 geared towards deep house. At 1.1, highlights of the night were Flosstradamus, NGHTMRE, and closers Tchami & Malaa. At 2.2, Anna Lunoe played pregnant (!) with Wax Motif for an iconic B2B, followed by an unforgettable set by AC Slater (whose Night Bass record label sponsored the stage). The variety of sound and all together good vibes made it an unforgettable event.
SNOWGLOBE
One of those festivals which is known both in and out of EDM circles, SnowGlobe debuted a stellar lineup this year that left fans raving. The most hotly anticipated performances were by GRiZ, Fisher, and Skrillex (the NYE headliner), though smaller acts really shone: notably Kasbo’s soft feelsy synths, Elohim’s melodic interludes, and the edgy bass of Kaivon and GG Magree.
COUNTDOWN NYE
This Insomniac mainstay had a stacked lineup this year with four massive stages. The NOS Events Center looked otherworldly with colored orbs dangling from trees and ground crew suited up as aliens, giving attendees an “out of this world” experience. At the Mothership stage, fan favorites The Chainsmokers and Galantis played the crowed, in addition to superstars Alesso and Oliver Heldens. At the Nebula stage, Atliens threw down hard core, and Griffin, Jai Wolf, and Porter Robinson played unforgettable DJ sets. The Area 51 stage featured dub acts like Borgore and Svdden Death, in addition to popular Florida native Blunts & Blondes. Lastly, the Twilight Zone stage hosted by Insomniac Records featured more deep house vibes such as Dombresky, Chris Lorenzo, and Dr. Fresch. All in all, an incredible compilation of talented artists and a diverse roster made Countdown the event to beat.
DECADENCE NYE
Often quoted as “America’s biggest new year’s celebration,” this show is like no other. Although we at WDW didn’t get the chance to go ourselves this year, the sheer list of performer names is enough to give us chills: from Bassnectar to Don Diablo to Rezz to San Holo to Slander. And the videos (the few that are in existence) look epic. If you went to Decadence, leave your thoughts in the comments below; we’d love to hear from you.
LOOIKING FORWARD… COACHELLA 2020
It’s no secret that the upcoming Coachella lineup was recently announced, and people have LOTS of opinions. We’re assuming you’ve got thoughts, too: we certainly do. Let us know! DM us who you’re most excited to see in the upcoming festival season, in addition to which festivals from 2019 were your favorites. And stay tuned for more reviews yet to come!