Tucked away in beautiful Norridgewock, Maine, Great North is a far cry from your typical cookie cutter festival. As summer turns to fall it’s natural to hang up the camelback and call it a year for festival season. With a lineup however boasting headliners like Tipper (twice), GRiZ, Conspirator, and Papadosio, it’s your duty as a fan of electronic music to consider stretching out the limits of festi season just a bit.
While the majority of attendees might be drawn in with the big-time names like the ones above, what makes this stand out from the rest is the depth of lesser known talent on the bill. You may or may not be familiar with some of these individuals, but there’s no doubt in my mind these artists are going to put their stamp on the festival. Below are some of my favorite non-headliners we’ll be treated to just a month from now.
Bluetech
Hailing from Pahoa, Hawaii, Evan Bartholomew has been carving out a name for himself in the downtempo genre. With a sound that can be described as the perfect combination of weird and soothing, there’s no disputing the fact that Evan has perfected a unique style all his own. Bluetech might be an even better human being than he is an artist, saying “In my efforts to be an example of change in the way I approach and utilize technology in my art, I am attempting to convert my work space to a solar powered studio. Funds raised from the sale of my EP will go towards this goal, and your support is greatly appreciated“. Take a listen to “Laika” and get familiar with what Evan’s going to throw our way come September.
Space Jesus
Space Jesus has been a WRR favorite for some time now. Bringing some of the most unorthodox bass your ears have ever heard, you can be sure to expect some vulgar trap and bulky basslines. Fresh off a killer performance at Farm Fest this past month, Jasha is set to do it all over again in Maine. Expect to see some new tunes thrown your way and while you wait, take a listen to his latest mix.
DJ Qbert
If you’re looking to see one of the most talented humans beings at their respective craft, DJ Qbert is a can’t miss. Richard Quitevis has been a trailblazer since the early 90’s and is recognized by A-Trak, Craze, and C2C to have shaped the way they scratch vinyl. Winning the DMC World Championship three times should speak for itself, but if you find yourself looking for something different at Great North, DJ Qbert is a must see.
Psymbionic
Psymbionic has been on my radar for over a year now and I couldn’t be more excited to finally get the chance to catch him live. Self described as a “genre bending bass producer”, John Burcham will bring you to the darkest depths of bass music and back. Be ready to hear some glitch, dubstep, and old-school downtempo and see what this guy has to offer come September. Take a listen to his remix of Minnesota to get a taste of his one of a kind sound.
Twiddle
Rounding out the list is the quartet from Virginia, Twiddle. Comprised of Brook Jordan, Zdenek Gubb, Ryan Dempsey, and Mihali Savoulidis, these guys forge a fun, funky sound that’ll keep you moving. By blending jazz, bluegrass, reggae, and funk, these dudes have been making a name for themselves on the summer festival circuit with appearances at Gathering of the Vibes, Farm Fest, The Hudson Project, Wakarusa, and Summer Camp. If you’re a fan of Exmag or The Floozies, you’re going to love what Twiddle has to offer.
If you haven’t already, be sure to grab your tickets and lock down your spot for what’s shaping up to be a great time in Maine next month. Do it for GRiZ, do it for Tipper, or do it for any of the artists listed above. The atmosphere is set to be pristine and the vibes should be equally as clean, hope to see you all there.
Share On
