Tag Archives: Hardcore

BKJN vs. Partyraiser Festival Review (June 30 2018)

Despite not being fully recovered from Defqon the previous weekend, on Saturday, June 30, 2018, my crew and I traveled to Zoetermeer for my second edition of BKJN vs. Partyraiser. Before going into the party, we had an amazing all-you-can-eat sushi dinner at Bijou where not only were we the only ones in the restaurant, but also we could see and hear the outdoor main stage from our seats. The funniest part of it all was that the restaurant was basically inside the Silverdome. Therefore, the bathroom was located on the opposite wall of the terror stage, aka “The Terror Toilets,” which made the entire bathroom vibrate. I will be definitely coming back here to eat before going to the Silverdome.

After dinner we headed into the festival, and first up on the list was Crypton at the Frenchcore stage. We actually saw Crypton walking outside when we were eating dinner and my friends, being fan girls they are, ran out of the restaurant and chased him down the street. He then joined us for ice cream while my friends serenaded him for the thousandth time with the song they made for him: “Ik hou van Crypton.” (I love Crypton.)

We then headed outside to go on the festival’s carnival ride. Usually I avoid spinning rides, but I was peer-pressured into it. Not only was the ride free and had no line, but I didn’t get sick, so triple win!

After almost having to endure the ride again because we couldn’t figure out to open the safety device (if you heard some people screaming “HELP! HELP!” really loudly outside, that was us), we ran over to the indoor main stage for Partyraiser’s big entrance. The man of the night began his set with an Elvis impersonator with a light-up exploding guitar, girls in poodle skirts, and fireworks, It was like taking a trip back to America in the 1950s, but with hardcore in the background. What a way to start the night!

Next, I headed to the uptempo area to get a good spot for Rob GEE’s set and while doing so I got to see Omkara for the first time. Dark, fast music with costumes and dancers—it was a lot of fun!

Now the moment my crew had been waiting for—the American hardcore king, Rob GEE! Rob played a high energy set including his new track “A DJ Saved my Life” and the new “You Got What I Need” remix! Whenever he is playing, you can always find me in the front and center singing and screaming.

After some socializing and ice cream, it was time for Sefa vs. Dr. Peacock vs. Partyraiser. This set was a mix of some epic throwbacks like “Always Hardcore” and “Love U More,” in addition to some newer tracks including “Tandava (Billx Remix),”one of my personal favorites. Throughout the set, I just kept thinking how crazy it was that this was Sefa’s 18^th birthday. This led me to reflect on my own 18^th birthday, which consisted of having a party in my parents’ basement in the suburbs with a strobe light, my karaoke machine, and my dad sitting disapprovingly on the other side of the door in a rocking chair watching everyone go in and go out. Talk about a stark contrast!

I then spent the remainder of the night at the main stage, jamming out to Partyraiser vs. F. Noize vs. Hyrule War, and then Partyraiser vs. Tieum vs. Unexist! Partyraiser’s energy throughout the night was incredible. Every set had crazy lasers and fireworks, plus was high-powered, unique, and stimulating.

Now, without further ado, let’s get into the interview with the man of the night, Partyraiser!

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First, congratulations on 25 years of hardcore! Can you tell us how you got into this music?

A long time ago, but I’ve loved it since day one. I remember my father had a tape in his bus (he was a touring car driver), and this tape had several awesome house tracks on it. I played it, I loved it. I think this was 1990.

I went to my first house party in a club in 1991, and I was hooked. During that time, it wasn’t hardcore yet, but that changed quickly. I think it was 1992 when I first experienced a kind of gabber music. But 1993 was the year where it all became big!

Over the last 25 years, we have seen an incredible transformation in the music scene as a result of technology. How do you feel this has impacted your music and your career?

Well, every time has is charms. I love the old gabber music. It was pretty simple, but mannn it was badass! Of course later gabber became Millennium Hardcore; afterwards, slower hardcore at 160bpm, mainstream, and later the more rougher sounds. Yes, I love it all. The longer hardcore exists, the more hardcore music develops. Actually, the scene with uptempo these days is bringing the old feelings back, in my opinion. More loud kicks, faster beats, and no three-minute breaks. I am kinda happy with it since I’ve played the rough beats already since 2007.

As we reflect on the last 25 years of your career, where do you see yourself 25 years from now?

Oh wow, I have no idea. I think Hardcore music will never stop, and there are so many new kids standing up to keep our scene alive. So I think I’m not ready even if I’m almost 41, haha. I think 25 years from now is too long, but 10 years from now I honestly think we will still be alive and kicking. J

Last year, we saw the return of Thunderdome and this year is the return of Megarave. What old-school party do you think should make a comeback and why?

It will never have the same feeling as it had in the past. They only do events based on older success to get money again. I think that’s not the right way. You are killing a very good name that way! So, for me, let the past be the past and throw new gigs in the future. That’s my opinion.

I have had the opportunity to meet and see your family at some of your events! Have they always been supportive of your music?

Yes, yes, yes! From day one, my mom was my first and biggest fan. She was the one who bought me the real Technics SL-1210MK2 turntables (vinyl) in 1995. I started DJing in 1993, but the first two years I played on Marantz and Kam turntables with a CD player on the side and an electro mixer, haha.

My mom said, “Wes, you are so serious with mixing, I think you need the right equipment”. And, at that time, my mom did not have a lot of money to buy it. But she saw how happy it made me, and she bought me all the stuff I needed. I’m still so thankful, because that made me the DJ I still am these days.

And yeah, everyone who’s visiting my own parties can see my family members partying with us. They are into it as well, and they are proud, like I’m proud of them.

I really love the sets you have done recently with your wife, Bulletproof. (Relationship goals!) How is it working with your wife?

Oh lady, she’s the best! She is gorgeous, she is smart, and most of all she is so sweet to me and the rest of the family. Since day one I’ve been in love, and I’m married to the best girl in the world. We have been together now for nine years and married for two years.

And she has already played for a few years now, but we never did something with it.
I wanted to wait till she was ready! And she is now, and you know. Together, it’s a magical feeling on stage. We are blessed to do this together!

What advice do you have for couples who work together in the hardcore scene?

Love each other, and keep business and private life separated. Enjoy every moment, because it’s very, very special to have this huge opportunity.

The BKJN vs. Partyraiser party series has been a huge success! What sets these parties apart from all the other events you play at?

Of course, because these are my own events. Second of all, the promoter from BKJN is a very hard-working guy with many ideas. And he thinks that creating amazing events is more important than making quick, fast money. And that works. Besides that, we are always trying to give people the best lightshows, quality sound system, and unforgettable DJ battles. It’s just freaking awesome! HAHA!

At the BKJN vs. Partyraiser parties, you play nearly the entire time! Do you have any rituals or things you do to get in the mood before such long sets?

No, I do this for so many years now. I think I’m the only one in the last 10 years who’s doing so many solos all over Europe and own gigs with 7-hour sets straight. I just love it. And I do this on an automatic pilot system, I guess. I don’t use drugs, nor drink energy drinks. Just the vibe of the fans and the music get me through long DJ nights like these.

You recently published a mix with Rob GEE—he is one of my best friends. What’s it like working with him?

Rob is a very good friend of mine. We became friends a few years ago. As a DJ, I’ve known him since the 90s. Man, he was such a big name at that time with many hits. What I like about Rob—he is pure, what you see is what you get.

To have him on stage is amazing, because he is crazy as f**k, and makes that stage like it is his own. I love him, we talk a lot, and I’m happy he’s working so hard in the scene and to see him grow again. Yes, I have a magical feeling with my buddy.

You recently released “Trip to Holland” with Dr. Peacock. I am a big fan of the video and the track! As we know, Dr. Peacock has done similar tracks for countries such as America, Ireland, Turkey, Colombia, Japan, and so on. How did it feel to be asked to work on that particular track representing Holland?

Yes, of course that’s cool! I love my country, Holland, and Steve (Dr. Peacock) is one of my best friends. He’s a huge artist! I remember before he started playing. He booked me when he was a promoter in 2005/2007, and I was his headliner.

10 years later, we are headlining together. How crazy it goes! I think, with Steve on stage, I have one of the best feelings and chemistry during battles. Steve works so hard, and I have huge respect for him and the way he does it. And of course to do “Trip to Holland” in his “Trip to” series is awesome.

I made some kicks and screeches, and he made it fit. Together we talked about the best creation of Dutch songs in it. It was a very good combination together. And then we wrote the clip and arranged all locations. It was hard and long work, but we laughed so hard, haha! Yes, we are proud of this project. In such a short time, there have been over a million views on YouTube already. J

What do you like to do outside of music that contributes to your musicality?

Chilling, walking in the woods, playing with the dogs, and driving in my cars.

I’m a huge car fan, and I love to drive. I have a few babies, hehe. I’m a huge nature guy; it’s relaxing for me. And it gives me new ideas when I clear my head outside.

You have had the opportunity to play and travel around the world. What is one place you haven’t played yet, but would love to play?

China. I would love to play there one day. Amazing country! But first, Japan. I can’t wait for my November 2018 Japan tour. J

You have been to the United States before. What is your impression of the hardcore scene there?

It is small, unfortunately! But the fans are die-hard dedicated! The country is so great, so big. Everyone knows it’s my favorite country of all time. I visit it three times a year. But the scene is way too small for so many people. I wish they’d turn down that EDM shizzle and follow the hardcore rougher scene!

If they only knew how pure and friendly our scene was. I mean, they love punk rock and all kinds of harder styles. Why not hardcore?! Only a few cities in a few states.

It’s my dream to travel all over the States and play hardcore gigs everywhere.

Like my best friend DJ El-Niño from Houston, Texas said: “The USA is great, but their choice of dance music is soft as F**K!”

What advice do you have for the American hardcore scene and upcoming producers and DJs?

Come to Europe and see how we do it. See how we throw a party, how the Hardcore community is. And bring that vibe and feeling back to your beautiful country.

Make sure we can travel and play our beats there the next 10 years!

I like to DJ and dance in Utah! Oh yeahhhh, it’s my favorite state. And for the DJs, there are good hardcore DJs and producers in the US. I know they want the same. Let’s unite!

You have such a loyal and strong fan base all over the world, but as this is an American publication, if you could give your American fans one message, what would it be?

The scene I know in the States is awesome; they are dedicated. They know what real music is. 😉 I’d like to say that I love you; I can’t wait to see you dance. Some of them I see in front of me in Europe also, and that’s great.

Tell your family and friends about it…spread the word. Make them wild, so we can visit often. Hope to see you all soon again. The US is my favorite country, and that’s no secret.

Lastly, I asked some of my American friends if they had any questions for you, and these are a couple of those questions:

Throughout your career, who or what has been your biggest inspiration?

Elvis Presley. His music made me what I am now. I started listening to music when I heard him sing at the age of two. He inspired me my whole life. His music was rough, shocking, and the media was against it. Same shit like they have and do with hardcore music these days while they don’t know anything about it! Thanks Elvis, we are what we are now, because of what you were then.

Your name is Partyraiser. Is there ever a party not raised by the time you arrive?

Of course not, there are many DJs who can throw a party! I just like to throw that little extra, so the people give me their last energy. Love to see that. Good question. 😉

Thanks everyone, it was an honor. Love your States. Love your small hardcore scene. Hope to see you all soon wherever!

Thank you to BKJN Events and Krist Alies for some of the photos!

Articles

Review: Dominator Festival 2018

August 1, 2018 AmyFarina

Every year thousands of gabbers make the pilgrimage from all over the world to a small town outside of Eindhoven for the largest hardcore gathering in the world. This year was no different. On 21 July my friends and I embarked on our epic journey to the festival. Of course being my group of friends there were several obstacles along the way: missing IDs; lost OV chip cards; almost missing both the bus and train; and a packed sauna-like shuttle ride. Nevertheless after the three-hour journey we made it there!

This was my third edition of Dominator and one important difference between this year and the previous years (I went in 2017 and 2015) was that this was one of the hottest days on record in the Netherlands (according to me having spent almost four summers/partial summers here now). Thankfully Dominator is located on a beautiful beach with plenty of room to swim. Despite the heat the organizers were prepared and preemptively cancelled the fireworks as a result of the dry terrain. Furthermore, a big shout out to the organizers for providing cups and free water stations and potable drinking water near the bathrooms; that was a lifesaver.

We started the day off with Fan4stik. It was my first time seeing them and as a new recent fan of Billx it was the perfect start to the day. If you like Hard Tek check these guys out. Next we made our way over to the main stage for Bodyshock. Even though it was early the main stage was packed and the crowd despite the heat was so energetic. So energetic that people kept trying to steal our inflatable pig totem (Wilbur)! Thankfully Anne is a marathon runner and hunted the perpetrators down and returned Wilbur safely to our crew.

After now slightly dying as result of the heat I hopped in the water for a little swim during Radium’s set. The highlight of the set for me was while I was swimming I heard Rob GEE’s new track “A DJ Saved My Life” (side note: I heard it again later during Mutante’s set, could this be the festival anthem of the summer?). Next was the QSA (American hard dance) meet up during Billx’s set and as per usual it consisted of a sloppy failed attempt at a group photo then half of the group disappeared.

After that I got separated from the group and because they closed the beach off for Sefa’s set, myself and the other festival-goers trying to get to the other side of the festival had to cross through the water. This was probably my favorite part of the day. An exodus of sweaty people carrying dirty socks, shoes, and all their belongings (somehow still all texting and taking selfies) through the water to the other side of the island from the Frenchcore tent to the Extreme Hardcore tent. It was a long trek but we made it!

Last but certainly not least, my friend Hellcreator closed the talent stage and he crushed it! This is now two years in a row that a friend of mine had the opportunity to play on the talent stage at Dominator, what a treat!

Exhausted, dirty, sweaty, and sore. These are some of the words to describe how we felt the end of Dominator. Dominator festival is a must visit for anyone who likes hardcore; every year it gets bigger and bigger. The festival overall no surprise was an absolute success. The music was amazing, the production level was high, and the crowd was energized. The only thing that would make it better is if the Rawstyle stage was the Speedcore stage, well I can only dream.

See you next year DOMMMMINNNNAAAATTTOORRRRRRR!

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MEMORIES: Throwback Thursday Defqon 2017 Review!

July 5, 2018 AmyFarina

Happy Throwback Thursday everyone! I was asked by The Hard Data to post my review of Defqon 2017 which was originally posted on my personal blog, Adventures with MC Unicorn.

Thursday- QSA Pre-Defqon Meet Up

*QSA is a group of American hard dance fans that meet at hard dance raves and festivals in the USA and abroad. Before major events such as Defqon and Qlimax we always meet at Luminaa in Leidsplein, Amsterdam

‘Twas the night before Defqon and all through the ‘Dam not a hard dance fan was lonely not even on the tram. The drinks were flowing and fists were in the air in hopes that Frontliner would soon be there. Some ravers were hakking all over the bar, while others loaded camping supplies into the car. With Kardiak on the decks and I with my squad, we were all starting to get a little bit odd.

When out in the plein there arose such a clatter, I ran from the bar to see what was the matter. Away to the door I flew like a flash, through the sweaty ravers I hustled out the door, and to what to my wondering eyes did appear but it was Rob Gee dancing with cheer. With his purple mohawk and horde of fans, I knew in a moment he must be the leader of the hardcore clan. More rapid than eagles his fans they came, he whistled and shouted and called out our names “QSA ITS GROUP PHOTO TIME!” To the front of the bar, to the middle of the plein, take out your flags, for now is the time! And then it was time for us to leap, some to the Melkweg and others to sleep. For tomorrow was Defqon, the most wonderful time of the year, see you at the Yellow Stage tomorrow my dear.

Friday-Day 1

The day we had all been waiting for had finally arrived (note: the remainder of this review will not be written in poetic form, sorry!)! We all got up a little groggy from the night before (some of us more than others) and headed from my house in Voorburg to Den Haag Centraal to hop on the event travel bus. Unfortunately in order to get to the station we had to take the local bus where we got some interesting glances from my neighbors (six ravers with a ton of camping gear). After knocking into a few people with my 2015 Defqon tent and spilling all of the contents of my shopping bag down the aisle of the bus not once but twice, we finally made it to the station. The bus ride took about five hours since once we got right outside the festival we literally moved 50 meters in an hour but finally around 16:30 we were at our campsite and the party began. I got to reunite with my friends, some of which I hadn’t seen in over two years, and some for the first time in person! Fast-forward to the main event of the night- the Gathering!

First off, when the gates opened I ran immediately to the Yellow Stage (duh) for the silent disco. If you want to laugh your @$$ off this is the place to be. Just picture 200 ravers going crazy to terrorcore but with no sound. Tharoza opened the Yellow stage, it was my first time seeing him live and he crushed it! The other highlight of the night was definitely Angernoizer who closed out the stage with some brutal beats. Following the performance there was a small firework end show on the “Around the World” ride (big swing), which was totally unexpected. Overall day one of Defqon was both fun and exhausting but everything was falling into place for an awesome weekend.

Saturday-Day 2

Despite not having slept at all we were all ready for day two! I had promised my friends that this weekend I would check out the other stages and not just spend all my time at Black, Yellow, and Gold like I did in 2015. That being said, walking by Chaotic Hostility at the Yellow Stage that morning was hard but I wanted to actually check out the entirety of the festival especially because since I live here now I have the opportunity to see all of these DJs often. First up for the day was Pyra at the White stage, I had never heard of her before but am always excited to see female hard dance DJs since there are so few of them and us female hard dance lovers have to stick together! Between Pyra and Power Hour we had a few hours to just wander around the festival and explore. In doing so, I noticed there was a station where people were giving people massages on red beanbag chairs. I made a mental note to come back to them later.

Now it was time for Power Hour! For those of you who have never been to Defqon or who are living under a rock, Power Hour is one hour of all different types of hard dance on the main stage (Red) and it is CRAZY. Basically everyone from the festival is there (probably around 50,000 people but who knows I’m bad at math), there are inflatables being thrown into the crowd, people throwing trash from the floor in the air (yes its as gross at it sounds), confetti, fire, mutli-colored smoke, marriage proposals, people crowd surfing, etc. This was my first Power Hour since in 2015 I went for about five minutes, decided that it was too crowded and went back to the Yellow Stage. This year I was determined to fully experience Power Hour and boy I did. Words cannot explain the insanity of this set. The highlight for me by far was the Thunderdome segment. As we all know, Thunderdome is returning this year and they did a special dedication to it during Power Hour and it was epic.

Feeling exhausted after Power Hour I determined that we should go find those red beanbag people and get massages. After wandering around the festival for an hour we found people in red shirts however we were informed that they were not giving massages they were helping people apply sunscreen- WHAT!?! NOOOOOOOOOOO. We decided with our spirits low to just sit down in the chill area for a bit. We found a nice swing and finally I thought I could relax and recharge before the next set. As I rested my weary head upon the swing, my friend yells “AMY WE HAVE TWENTY MINUTES TO GET TO DR PEACOCK IN CONCERT AND WE NEED TO GO TO THE CAMPSITE FIRST LETS GO NOW!” AH! Dr Peacock in Concert was one of my “cannot miss” sets! Basically, Dr Peacock, one of the kings of Frenchcore was doing a special set with live violinists, Sefa on the piano, my boy Mouth of Madness on the mic, and live singers. Thankfully my friend is a marathon runner and managed to drag me from the chill area, to campsite one, all the way to the Black stage and we made it just in time! Out of breath, panting, sweating, and exhausted, I mustered up the strength for Dr Peacock and it was incredible. I felt like I was watching the New York Philharmonic but better, because duh Frenchcore makes everything better.

Finally after Dr Peacock in Concert we went back to the chill area where we found this amazingly comfortable fishing net and got some rest. I then got my unicorn onesie and sprinted to Noisekick at the Yellow stage. Although exploring the other stages on Saturday was fun I needed my extreme fix. Noisekick as always did not disappoint. After, we headed to the Red stage to get a good spot for the end show. The end show was bittersweet because I knew that at this time tomorrow the festival would be over but nevertheless the fireworks, lasers, music, and energy were incredible.

Sunday-Day 3

Today was the day I was most excited for because it was the Final Terror Sitdown! We sprinted over to the Black stage right when it opened but all of the chairs were already taken! Basically, the terror sitdown is a “sit down set” so everyone grabs a chair or a spot on the floor and then Noisekick plays terrorcore. I got a great spot on the floor to the left of the middle aisle and it was epic. First of all, Noisekick came in on a unicorn, A UNICORN! Can I borrow that sometime? He rode down the middle aisle to the stage to “Final Countdown” then everyone went crazy. He played a mix of classic rock like Queen with straight up ruthless terrorcore. It was so funny to see everyone going crazy while sitting down. Unfortunately the set was only about thirty minutes but I could have totally stayed there all day, terrorcore and you get to sit? Sounds perfect!

The rest of the day was a whirlwind but my highlights were: Re-Style at the Gold stage, Braindrillerz and SRB at Yellow. I spent the day catching up with some friends, wandering around, watching my friend bungee jump (maybe one day when I have more extensive health insurance I’ll try it), and enjoying some delicious Dutch French fries with mayo. I cannot reiterate how fast that this day went by. I checked my phone and it was already 20:00, the end show was about to begin! SAY IT AINT SO WE JUST GOT HERE! I was nowhere near ready for this weekend to be over. With my head hung low we walked to the Red stage. The next three hours were filled with all different types of emotions. There was certainly a lot of nostalgia because the set was entitled Defqon 1 Legends: 15 Years of Defqon. Headhunterz made his official return to hardstyle, Showtek dropped a few classic tracks, and there were sets from Pysko Punkz, Dana, Wildstylez, and Noisecontrollers, among others. The festival then concluded with an incredible firework and laser show. It was the perfect cherry on top of an epic weekend.

Unfortunately there were a bunch of sets I missed. Sorry Partyraiser, Sickest Squad, F. Noize, and Bass-D! I will see you guys at Dominator!

Reflecting back on the weekend, even though the weather wasn’t the greatest, I would not have changed a thing. That being said I have a few friendly suggestions to make next year’s Defqon even better:

The Yellow stage should be bigger, hey just make it the main stage! 😉 [Note from 4 July 2018: This year the Yellow stage was bigger so thank you!]
Terror Sitdown should be at the Red stage. A ton of people couldn’t even get in it was so crowded!
The water refill stations should be able to fill up camelback backpacks and not just the water pouches.

See you next year! Next up…..DOMINATOR!

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How to Survive and Thrive at Defqon

June 29, 2018 AmyFarina 2 Comments

As I now have been to three editions of Defqon (2015, 2017, and 2018) and countless of other camping festivals, I feel as though I am qualified to provide my tips to those of you making the epic pilgrimage to Defqon next year. My advice is directed primarily to Americans, because this is an American publication and I’m from the US, but it can be applied to anyone traveling to the Netherlands for Defqon!

1. Three Months Before Defqon

Buy your flight (if applicable) and festival tickets early and start making plans as soon as possible. I cannot emphasize this enough. Tickets usually sell out close to the event so get yours as soon as they go on sale in March to be safe! Moreover, arrange with your friends in advance what camping option you plan on doing.

How long should you stay in Holland?

If you’re coming from the US I would suggest at least a week. Your best bet is to arrive in Holland on Wednesday to rest up and explore. Then on Thursday get all the supplies you need for Defqon then later that night come to the QSA meet up in Amsterdam to meet our amazing group of Americans (shout out to QSA!). Then, Defqon goes from Friday to Monday, which leaves you with at least a day and a half to recover.

How should I get to Defqon?

If it’s your first time in Holland, Amsterdam is probably your best option. Getting to Defqon from Amsterdam is easy and you have a variety of options. However that being said, if it’s not your first time in the Netherlands go somewhere else, I live in the Den Haag area which is awesome, but Utrecht and Rotterdam are two other major amazing cities!

If you’re traveling in a large group I suggest renting a car. This past year my friends and I rented a car from Sixt from Schipol Airport. WARNING to Americans: cars are a LOT smaller here than in the US. You might think you are getting a seven person car but in reality it really only fits four people with all the camping supplies in the back (we stuffed six people and all of our camping supplies but it was a very tight fit). Also this might be obvious but please do not forget your credit card and passport when you go to pick up the car (this happened to my group of friends don’t let it happen to you!).

If you’re traveling solo or in a small group your best options are to either: (i) take public transportation to Dronten station then the Defqon shuttle; or (2) take the bus from Amsterdam (or wherever you are staying) to Defqon.

If you choose option (i) book your shuttle ticket online from the Defqon website. The shuttle buses leave throughout the day starting at 13:00 on Friday. Definitely get that shuttle ticket in advance because it fills up and increases in price. Additionally public transportation is very easy in the Netherlands, although a bit pricy. There is a very handy app/website that provides you with all the information you need (https://9292.nl/en). You can change the language to English after you download the app by clicking the wheel (settings) then click “Taal” and change it to “Engels”. If you plan on using the train, tram, or bus in the Netherlands you should purchase an OV chipcard. You can buy an OV chipcard from any train station just look for the large yellow machine, then you can load money on the card and travel anywhere in the Netherlands. This is cheaper than buying individual tickets.

For option (ii), you can book a bus trip from Event Travel (https://www.eventtravel.nl) from most cities in the Netherlands. I did this in 2017 from Den Haag and it was about 30 euros round trip. The only issue with the bus is its extremely slow, it makes a lot of stops, and then you are sitting in the bus line traffic at the entrance to Defqon. The bus we took in 2017 left Den Haag at 9:00am and we arrived at Defqon sometime after 13:00.

Where should I stay at Defqon?

This is obviously dependent on your personality and festival style. In 2015, I chose the regular ticket including a Defqon sleep package (tent, sleeping bag, etc), in 2017 I did friends camp with my 2015 tent, and this year I did regular camping with my own tent. If you’re interested in camping and do not live in the Netherlands your best option is probably to do either the regular camping option including the tent or friends camp including the tent. If you’re traveling in a large group friends camp is a great option because you get a designated camping area with picnic tables, a much faster check in and security line, and we even got Defqon power banks which we could charge at the stations! Personally, camping is my favorite part of Defqon because the party never ends and if you need anything throughout the day you could always just go back to the campsite to get it then the next day all you have to do is walk right into the festival!

Another great option is the tipi. Tipis come in different sizes and my friends always get them. It’s a great after party spot, its rain resistant, has electricity, and cots to sleep on. I also saw for the first time this year a Yurt (not sure if they had them in years passed), this is a large tent with electricity, beds, and is easily lockable. We walked past some pretty wild after parties in the yurts this year!

For those who like the convenience of staying at the festival but don’t want to camp can choose the comfort camping option. With this you are in a cabin with electricity, have access to an exclusive bar; chill area, bbq, breakfast and more. So if you have the money and are someone who needs privacy, sleep, or electricity this is for you.

If you’re not one for constant loud noise, getting disgusting, and large crowds (not sure why you wouldn’t like that-lol) there are also hotels, cottages, and apartments. However, if you do decide to stay outside of Defqon just keep in mind that you have to be on time to take the bus back to your accommodations and are subject to wait in long lines in both directions. However, three nights of camping (especially in the rain and it ALWAYS rains at Defqon) can be brutal so if you’re someone who needs to sleep, shower, and have access to Wi-Fi this is a good option for you.

Regarding showering at the Defqon campsites the lines can be long especially in the mornings. One of my friends always brings this great dry shampoo, Lush No Drought. Lush is a popular chain in the Netherlands so you can get it here or order it online.

One other thing to keep in mind is that a lot of places in the Netherlands do not take international credit cards, so bring some cash with you. The major places especially in Amsterdam take credit cards but smaller stores, cafes, restaurants, and grocery stores don’t.

2. One Week Before Defqon

As previously mentioned if possible you should arrive in the Netherlands a week before Defqon to get everything you need and get situated!

If you’re looking for camping supplies your best options is Decathlon (Americans, its like Sports Authority or Modell’s) and Action (Dutch version of a dollar store but better! Note: they do not take international credit cards). This year I just got a tent lock at Decathlon but they have tents, sleeping bags, air mattresses, etc. Decathlon is your go to for the higher quality larger camping needs. From Action I got baby wipes, protein shakes, a collapsible cooler, and in the past an air mattress. Both of these stores are located all over the Netherlands and will come in handy a week before the festival.

A new essential camping item I discovered this year (shout out to Anne!) is the Wegwerp BBQ, this is a one-time disposal BBQ that you can easily use at the campsite. This is great for sausages, chicken, etc. and can be found at Hema (Dutch version of Target) or Gamma (Dutch equivalent of Home Depot).

With regard to food and drinks, Jumbo is a great grocery store that takes American credit cards (most don’t). The main grocery store in Amsterdam and in the Netherlands is Albert Hejin and for liquors its Gall & Gall. Your best bet for Defqon depending on your personal dietary needs is getting boxed wine, canned beer (bottles are prohibited), protein shakes, yogurt, granola/protein bars, juice, bread, meat, cheese (to make sandwiches), and some things to grill. Food at the festival is expensive although I always make sure to buy fries and a smoothie there because they are really good. If you do have dietary restrictions (such as celiac disease or a religious restriction) try to get a note from your doctor so you can bring in your own food and drinks onto the festival grounds. I usually pack at least four protein shakes and coordinate with my crew so we have enough food and drinks to share. Then I usually set aside 40-50 euros for tokens at the festival. Unlike in the US, Dutch festivals do not accept any other currency except for tokens meaning you have to visit the token area (they are all over the camp grounds and the festival, they take international cards and cash) if you plan on eating or drinking that weekend. As for water, I recommend bringing a camelback backpack and just filling it up at the festival. They sell them for 25 dollars now on Amazon.

If you are looking for some good vitamin shops for some pre and post festival supplements while you’re here, Holland and Barrett (similar to GNC in America) is a great one. They have a discount card you can sign up for and always have specials.

3. At Defqon

You made it to Defqon, good for you! Try to arrive as early as possible and coordinate with your friends to secure your campsite. When I get there I usually set up, get tokens, get a program/timetable from the information then hang out at the campsite for a while until the Gathering starts. The Gathering is the official start of Defqon and it starts at 20:00. This past year the only two stages that were open were the Blue and Black stages (bring back the Yellow Silent Disco please!). This year there was also a small area in the sculpture garden where Dr. Peacock played under his Saint Benhard alias dropping some funky, psychedelic and dubby beats. This past year they also had a silent disco but not at yellow but that was still pretty cool! Then after The Gathering is over the party moves to the campsite!

Regarding the rest of the festival, the majority of the stages this year opened at 11:00. Even though I am sure you have a set list of DJs you must see (I used to be like that) take the time to explore all the stages (especially the Yellow Stage!) and to discover some new artists. Additionally, one of my favorite parts of Defqon is the Big Chill. Trust me at some point in the festival you’ll want to lie down in a large fishing net hammock contraption.

It gets cold here in the summer and rains a lot, so be sure you have a jacket with you and pants. I usually would wear shorts in the morning and then bring pants, my leather jacket, and a sweatshirt to put on later. I kept half of my stuff in my camelback backpack and fanny pack (all my power banks, gum, chapstick, charger, extra clothes, hand wipes, etc.) and the rest in a locker. You can rent the locker either on the website in advance or when you get there. One of my friends had one so we all shared it and it really came in handy!

For the end shows on Saturday and Sunday I suggest getting there early and sitting in the very very front left on the grass on the side of the stage. You will be seeing it from the side but you will have plenty of space to either dance or sit (I personally like to sit on the grass and watch the end show) and can more easily get out than just standing in the middle of the crowd. This is good advice for anyone who is short, the Dutch are the tallest people in the world so unless you are one someone’s shoulders it’s hard to see.

What should you do after Defqon? Go and get a kapsalon! Kapsalon is a Dutch-Turkish dish served usually in an aluminum tray consisting of fries, meat, cheese, and a bit of salad on top. You can find them at any snack bar or döner kebab restaurant.

So there you have it! Reflecting on this past edition, Defqon is by far one of my top three festivals in the world. The production level, the music, the energy, the decorations, and the fact that every year more than 200 Americans go are just a few reasons why Defqon is extremely special. This year my favorite sets were Rob Gee, Dr Peacock in Concert (at the red stage which was insane) and the Sickest Squad. I also personally love Power Hour (even though I am more of a Yellow Stage girl) for its insanity and energy.

My final advice is the most important! Take the time to rest, drink water, and eat, it’s worth it. Even if you can’t properly sleep just lay down in your tent for at least three hours a night, your body needs it. Furthermore, wear earplugs AS SOON AS YOU GET INSIDE THE FESTIVAL. Thunderplugs are great and are only 10 euros (www.thunderplugs.com). Also, always look out for your friends, this may be a once in a lifetime experience but your friends are more important than even your favorite DJ.

Reach out to me if you need any advice! See you at Defqon 2019!

Curious about my 2017 experience check out my party report here:
https://af5942a.wixsite.com/mcunicorn/single-post/2016/03/31/Whats-Cooking-Mexico

Disclaimer: The opinions and views in this article are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the artists and organizations I work with or am affiliated with.

Daybreaker, Digitracks, Reviews

‘Sei2ure – Partystarter EP’ Review

April 30, 2018 Daybreaker

Here we have an artist who has literally done it all with so much ease and sleaze. Sei2ure has released on nearly every important hardcore record label known today with a repertoire that has stretched from the industrial side of the spectrum, to crossbreed, all the way over to uptempo. He is known more for his elaborate, crispy-crumbly kick drums as well as his sounds that can only be found inside of a steel factory or, perhaps, an airplane crash site. I mention this because his most recent release, ‘Partystarter’, on ‘Footworxx Digital’, isn’t where you are going to find the “top-of-the-line” Sei2ure. Although the second track, ‘Serial Killer’, sits at 175 BPM and has more groove, it is still designed in the same vein as the title track and the final, albeit stronger track, ‘Back the Fuck Up’: typical straight driving bass lines with the occasional vocal sample at the end of every 4 bars. But its Sei2ure’s sound itself that makes this uptempo release more invigorating and worth a rinse out at the next hardcore party.