Can you really go wrong at Counterpoint this year? The answer is no. However, after precise evaluation of the lineup I decided to provide you all with an experienced and research driven insight that will hopefully help you navigate your way through the stacked lineup. I took things into account like current buzz (Adventure Club), live instrumentation, massive tours – i.e Bassnectar is embarking on a major US Fall tour so many of you will have the chance to catch him live again – and more. Have fun and we look forward to seeing you all in Hotlanta!
6.) Adventure Club
Adventure Club only boosted what was already a stacked bill of talent when they were announced as part of the late additions. No dj/producer has had a more monumental breakout in 2012 than this duo, releasing the hottest ambient vocal dubstep out right now. Believe me when I say you want to be in attendance as they serenade the Georgia crowd with their ‘Youth’ remix.
5.) Atmosphere
Biased suggestion? Maybe. Still a must? Yes. Sean Dailey AKA Slug is one of the few remaining emcees in the hip hop game, if such still exists. The Minneapolis native has built a record label (Rhymesayers) around his keen knack for simply talking about what’s real – not drugs, cars, and fast b*tches. With classic hip hop beats provided by Ant, Dailey is a representation of how proactive rap music can be. Lyrics with substance and a live performance that will have you walking away believing in the potential of hip hop again.
4.) Ghostland Observatory
Touted as the best laser show in live dance music. Ghostland brings an eccentric twist to typical dance music, an electrodancesoulrock vibe. Vocalist Aaron Behrens is a modern mix of Prince and Queen while Thomas Turner channels between drums and synth tables. A live performance that blends elements of music for one incredible sound should not be overlooked.
3.) M83
Skip M83 and you won’t forgive yourself. The most encompassing sound I’ve ever heard – Their set at Ultra was forced to span just two songs and I still have no words to explain what occurred. Massive sound transcended across Miami for 10 minutes and everyone was left drooling for more and wondering “what just happened?” The sexiest saxophone riffs you’ve ever heard paired with more live instrumentation for what is guaranteed to be one of the most lively sets of the entire Counterpoint Festival.
M83 Live
2.) A-Trak
A-Trak is the man and one of the most talented dj’s in the world. No really, he’s got accolades to back it up – he was the DMC world champ at the age of 15. A-Trak has toured the world as Kanye West’s DJ and is known most notably for starting Fool’s Gold Records. Technical nature aside, the Montreal born DJ has dropped recent remixes of Justice and a collab with Dillon Francis that I’m almost sure will be in his set at Counterpoint.
There is no abrupt pace in an A-Trak set – it’s a constant upbeat dance vibe which, respectively, blew Hardwell’s set out of the water during their back 2 back at Ultra this past year. He also ranks so high because his appearances tend to be select without any large North American tours.
A-Trak
1.) Pretty Lights Music – The Label
Number one goes to encompassing an entire label. Whoever curated the talent for Counterpoint showed mad love for PLM, and for good reason. Gramatik, Paper Diamond, Michal Menert, SuperVision, and Paul Basic all bring inebriating unique sounds cultivated somewhere out in dance mecca Colorado; There must be something in the water. Should you find yourself walking around unsure of your next move, direct action should be leading you to a stage where one of these artists is performing.
Obviously it goes without saying that Pretty Lights’ set is a must. Rumors are swirling from his recent Red Rocks shows regarding his sound – that of more hip hop influences, which we should all be excited to experience as part of his Illumination Tour 2012.
This is what happened last time Derek was in the ATL 🙂
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