Category: Reviews

  • The Continuing Growth of Kidnap: ‘Something to Say’ ft. Chelou

    The Continuing Growth of Kidnap: ‘Something to Say’ ft. Chelou

    Oftentimes, we feel beholden to the patterns of our pasts. We become comfortable in our routines, they become second nature, and at times appear reflections of ourselves. Life has a way of disturbing our rhythms, and guiding our journeys in unexpected directions. This is certainly the case for London based producer Kidnap, aka Matt Relton.…

  • Syndicate Sound Sessions 005: A Scintillating Showcase of Entertainment

    Syndicate Sound Sessions 005: A Scintillating Showcase of Entertainment

    Living in Illinois, one generally has to travel to Chicago to access exceptional tiers of entertainment. There aren’t a lot of opportunities to let loose with fellow electronica enthusiasts and enjoy a well organized and produced presentation outside the city. Generally, you find yourself at a friend’s house listening to playlists and chilling. Better case,…

  • Whispers From the Forest (Part 3): Rhythm and Melody in Electric [Rain]Forest

    Whispers From the Forest (Part 3): Rhythm and Melody in Electric [Rain]Forest

    One of the most engaging aspects of Electric Forest is the assembly of music and talent featured throughout its grounds, and upon its stages. The lineup for this weekend boasted a bevy of heavies, solid musical aficionados aplenty, and joined by many rising stars. Plus, you never know who’s gonna pop up on the renegade…

  • Whispers from the Forest (Part 2):  Discourse and Sagacity, in Electric Forest

    Whispers from the Forest (Part 2): Discourse and Sagacity, in Electric Forest

    Just as beautiful and magical as the majesty of Electric Forest’s presentations are the variety of souls that show up to spectate, and interact with one another. People, by way of how they dress and deliver themselves, are absolutely works of art, in my mind. Crossing paths with folks all the way from New York…

  • Whispers from the Forest (Part 1):  Imagination in Electric [Art]Forest

    Whispers from the Forest (Part 1): Imagination in Electric [Art]Forest

    About a month ago, I landed in Rothbury for the annual Electric Forest music festival. This is a grandiose celebration, and throughout the grounds you’ll discover a bevy of creativity conceived and crafted by human hands. It may not always seem as such. The size and scope of many of these installations, as well as…

  • Sqwerv’s Hors d’Oeuvres, Part 3: The Final Course in a Musical Feast

    Sqwerv’s Hors d’Oeuvres, Part 3: The Final Course in a Musical Feast

    From the moment I discovered Sqwerv, which wasn’t all that long ago, their music tingled my soul with excitement. Jammy indie rock rife with elements of psychedelia. Totally tubular, brah! The band has been together since around 2017, although recently they’ve redesigned how they capture their unique sounds through their home based studio. Change is…

  • Summer Camp’s Evolution: The Meaning of Solshine Reverie (Part 2)

    Summer Camp’s Evolution: The Meaning of Solshine Reverie (Part 2)

    *Continued from part 1. Illumination Woods was my absolute vibe all weekend long. Everyone who performed this stage was a musical maestro presenting originality in forms I’m happy I discovered. Here’s a fun fact from Al Schierer, 20twenty was the twentieth artist to appear on the Illumination Woods stage. Me and the homies are hanging…

  • Summer Camp’s Evolution: The Meaning of Solshine Reverie (Part 1)

    Summer Camp’s Evolution: The Meaning of Solshine Reverie (Part 1)

    This past weekend, I made my way to the memorable grounds of Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe, IL. This has long been the home of Summer Camp Music Festival, since its inaugural two-day event in 2001. Fast-forward to 2024, and Summer Camp is going through something of a rebranding. Now, it’s Summer Camp Presents: Solshine…

  • Solar Tide Celebration: Effects Not Limited to the Earth and Moon

    Solar Tide Celebration: Effects Not Limited to the Earth and Moon

    It’s never too late to reflect on a lively and lovely affair; a little over two weeks ago, I attended Solar Tide, a two-day event held at the Patio Theater in Chicago, IL on May 10+11. I had an excellent feeling about this occasion, and largely because of my previous experience at Lunar Tide Music…

  • Rendezvous, Oui? Conversations about Community, Creativity, and Compassion (Part 2)

    Rendezvous, Oui? Conversations about Community, Creativity, and Compassion (Part 2)

    *This piece is a dedication towards collaboration within this community that I adore. It features components of conversations and interactions with attendees, like myself, which I intend to reverberate outwards and impactfully inspire others on their journeys. If I can use my verbosity and insight from others to help your progression, and show you some…

  • Sqwerv’s Hors d’Oeuvres, Part 2: A Delectable Second Serving

    Sqwerv’s Hors d’Oeuvres, Part 2: A Delectable Second Serving

    I enjoy thinking of music like morsels of sustenance. Bodies need vitamins and minerals to sustain, as do spirits require nutrients for growth, literally and metaphorically speaking. This reminds me of a quote from Greek philosopher, Plato. “Music and rhythm find their way into the secret places of the soul.” Very true, boss. Alternatively, music…

  • Rendezvous, Oui? The New Getaway for Next-Gen Glitch//Trip-Hop (Part 1)

    Rendezvous, Oui? The New Getaway for Next-Gen Glitch//Trip-Hop (Part 1)

    *There is so much for me to describe from the weekend that was Rendezvous, I have elected to do it in two parts. The first will mainly focus on performers and action in the amphitheater while the second will serve a more personal account of my time amongst the campground, vendors, community, and artistry. Trust…

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