Haywyre’s November 16th release ‘Tell Me’ was his first in two years, during which he focused on honing his already impressive skill set and developing his overall sound. His subsequent release ‘Storyteller’ was a cosmic fusion of resonance which effortlessly blends the sounds of disco with the future, priming listeners for the journey of soundscapes that come to fruition with his new Panorama: Discover EP. With classic Haywyre elements such as his talk-box vocals and groovy melodies, the entire project brings glitch hop nostalgia while shedding light onto the talented musician’s future musical endeavors. It’s great to have Haywyre back in full form again.

Don’t miss the Panorama: Discover EP below.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/playlists/654286518″ params=”color=#ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”300″ iframe=”true” /]

The post Haywyre’s ‘Panorama: Discover’ Is Nostalgic Yet Innovative appeared first on FUXWITHIT.

He’s got with him some pretty heavy talent for support: Haywyre is going to accompany Gramatik in February and March, with Møme taking over for April. One of Pt. 1’s collaborators, Balkan Bump, will be alongside Gramatik throughout the entire tour. All the while, California is blessed to have all 3 support artists playing at all 3 shows in mid-February.

Seeing as how the artwork for the EU tour turned out to be the artwork for the first part of the EP, it’s safe to presume that the artwork for the US tour may have something to do with the upcoming Part 2. There’s also a month-long gap between dates (March-April), so there’s a chance we may have more news on the future EP around then – these are but speculations, though.

Check out all the dates below, and don’t miss out on your chance to grab tickets for this grand tour!

The post Gramatik Takes the Re:Coil Tour Across The US appeared first on FUXWITHIT.

Lido

Lido is one of today’s most creative and innovative artists. So it’s only fitting that his live set matches his musical output. Lido takes the one man band concept to new levels with his groundbreaking live show. His set-up includes a computer with Ableton, a midi controller, keyboards, a mic, a vocoder, and a myriad of different drums. Each instrument serves as a vessel to expel his immense talent. Watching him switch from singing slow ballads while playing the keys, to pounding out drums solos is nothing short of spellbinding (see ‘Dye video below for a taste). At his Toronto show I witnessed him play the piano with a drum stick in his mouth, allowing for quick access as he frantically switched between instruments. It’s this dedication to performance that makes Lido’s live set not only one of the best in electronic music, but one of the best in all of music.

Brasstracks

Brooklyn-based production duo Brasstracks have had a quite a year, going from SoundCloud and blog favourites to winning a Grammy for their work on Chance The Rapper’s Coloring Book (they produced the stand out hit ‘No Problem’). Their “future brass” sound combines elements of future bass, trap, hip hop and R&B with their backgrounds playing trumpet, keys and drums. It should come as no surprise that their sets incorporate all of these elements in one hell of a way. When was the last time you saw someone killing the trumpet over a trap record? Needless to say Brasstracks are doing something that is massive. Check out their Band Class videos for a taste of what to expect.

FKJ

It’s not uncommon to have an ensemble of musicians assist you in your production. Of course, there are those who would rather create most, if not the entire experience by themselves. Vincent Fenton, better known as French Kiwi Juice or FKJ, uses his multi-instrumentalist prowess to achieve the very sound he wants his audience to experience. At a recent live show, an initial wave of glee came upon the crowd as FKJ came on stage by himself, with all of his necessary instruments set up around him. As he transitioned seamlessly from the keyboard, to the bass, to a guitar stationed across from it, there was a bonding sense of euphoria as we sang along with him throughout the night; he even sampled the crowd’s collective voice and created a track right before us, to demonstrate his wicked improv skills.

Keys N Krates

Toronto’s electronic trap trio Keys N Krates bridge the gap between DJing and live instrumentation perfectly. Originally starting out as a hip-hop cover band, KnK have evolved greatly over the years, moving from a local attraction to international superstars. Their live experience combines Jr. Flo’s incredible turntablism with the moving keys of David Matisse and stellar drum work of Adam Tune. Whether they’re playing out their incredible original tunes or flipping massive tracks (see ‘BitterSweet Symphony’) they always amaze. Their chemistry and energy are undeniable and they continue to get better each year. I’ve personally seen them live at least 7 times and look forward to catching them another 7.

Haywyre

Martin Vogt, best known by his musical project Haywyre, started off his musical endeavours as early as 6 years old. Monstercat‘s musical maestro produces music at such depth, not only on a sonic level, but a philosophical one as well; one example is the theme of dichotomy/opposites in his albums Two Fold Parts 1 & 2. At the heart of Martin’s prodigious skills is his main tool of the trade, his trusty keyboard. His eclectic jazz/glitch/bass-fusion style of music is awe-inspiring to watch, especially since his live shows are broadcast with cameras. In doing so, the crowd watches exactly how Martin plays, for a deeper sense of connection between him and us. As he’s playing, he is mostly fixated on his performance, and thus doesn’t continually prompt the crowd to throw their hands up or clap along to the beat. Given how much energy he’s delivering on stage into each note, chord, or intricate solo, the crowd throws about and claps along anyways, without the need of any encouragement.

Autograf

The explosive Chicago trio consisting of Jake Carpenter, Louis Kha, and Mikul Wing not only have an extensive cumulative background in music – Autograf also specializes in visual arts, which they incorporate into their music however they can. Whether creating their own artwork for their songs/projects, or even providing their own visuals to their live shows, they always make sure to capture an intense futuristic feeling, to further exemplify their future house sound. One key element that really stands out in their music is the electronic vibraphone. It gives their songs the perfect cheery touch, and in their live performance, you can feel the melody ring throughout your entire body, on the right speakers.

Tennyson

Canadian brother and sister duo Tennyson are well known for their forward-thinking jazz inspired creations. Despite their young age, they’ve manged to clock millions of plays online, collaborate with Mr. Carmack and perform at a slew of massive festivals. Adding to their appeal is their live set – with Tess on the drums and Luke on the keys and an Ableton controller, they bring their unique sound to life. Their performances pack the fun and youthful energy of a high school talent show whereas the music being created suggests a level of talent that is well beyond their years.

ODESZA

The founders of Foreign Family Collective perform live in such an enthusiastic manner – bouncing and throwing down with each drop, usually accompanied with the majestic clash of a nearby cymbal. Whether the duo’s performing on the drums themselves, or alongside a drum ensemble as they’re producing with their launchpads, each beat adds to the glittery feel of magic found in each song. Their performances fit perfectly within festivals based around a mantra of love, given that you can’t help but smile and let your body get taken over by the warm feel-good vibes all around you.

That’s a wrap for for our list. Let us know your favourites, and if there is anyone that you feel we missed in the comments or on Facebook and Twitter.

Words by Colin and ck.

The post 8 Electronic Artists Pushing The Boundaries Of Live Performance appeared first on FUXWITHIT.

Without a doubt, no two festivals are alike – especially considering the fact that there’s seemingly a new festival every weekend this summer. However, Shambhala stands well above many others, and is considered to be one of Canada’s prime festivals, and it’s not simply through its rejection of corporate sponsorship, nor the fact that it’s had time to grow and build itself up properly (although, those two factors do help quite a lot). In fact, it’s so highly acclaimed that some of the attendees are there because a local or one of the border patrol guards recommended the festival to them.

Regardless of whether you’re a first-timer, or celebrating your 10th consecutive year attending Shambs, there’s always a new adventure awaiting on the farm, and you’ll easily come to call it home. Here’s a breakdown of the extravaganza that went down this year, as I lost my Shambs virginity:

The experience

The experience itself feels so surreal, to describe it best. Between the moments you enter and leave the farm, everything is like one continuous dream which you know is actually occurring. Tie in the insurmountable Shambhalove given and shared amongst everybody you come across, as well as the isolation from life’s concerns and expectations, and you are blessed with an experience which not only gives you an opportunity to be free (in whatever manner you wish to express), but also the chance to let go and enjoy the festival (and life, in general) for all that it is. Truth be told, saying the name ‘Shambhala’ out loud still has some magic to it.

Also considering that a vast number of us are from busy suburbs/cities, being surrounded by nature and seeing the Milky Way in the sky at night is a wondrous sight, as well as a much needed change of scenery. Along with the amount of spirituality that goes with the festival, the whole event is one great reason to smile and have a prolonged peace of mind.

The Music

There are strong claims made throughout the weekend that artists who perform at Shambs go much harder into their sets than they normally would. Then again, with the high energy exerted from each artist (more than I’ve seen elsewhere), as well as the praise and gratitude to play at the festival, I’d have to wholeheartedly agree.

Shambhala is about the music, first and foremost. With a massive roster of approx. 300 artists, there is clearly not enough time to take in everything. However, the Shambhagods organizers listen to the people by sifting through artist requests, as well as catering to the tastes of its frequenters, to bring a lineup which makes you feel like you’re in the right place at the right time, regardless of wherever your adventures take you. There is a total of six stages, which have come to grow substantially over time:

Amphitheatre

The Amp is one of only two stages open prior to the opening ceremony – the other being Living Room – and hosts a wide variety of sound which ranges from deep, to heavy, to weird… or possibly even a mix of all of the above, such as that delivered by Yheti and Space Jesus.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/260045752″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Living Room

The stage which brings the groove to the riverside! It’s the perfect place to beat the high noon sun (especially when you wake up in a 30° tent), as you take a dip in the icy-cold Salmo River, and have access to some fresh organic fruit at a nearby booth – it’s like having your own paradise in the mountains. There’s even rumours of a magical, colour-changing sandbox that appears at night.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/261903861″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Pagoda

Unofficially classified as “Shambhala’s Main Stage”, this multi-layered stage easily has heads turning to check out what’s going on, whether it’s from REZZ and her show-crushing set which still has people talking, to Mija throwing down some happy hardcore to an explosion of colours and lights, or even Destructo and his array of pineapples welcoming the sun during his sunrise sermon –  there’s always a story to be told, just by entering its gates.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/245101883″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

The Village

This place is heaven for any and every basshead out there! Thanks to its affiliation with pk Sound, this stage brings you the true, raw power of bass – in the form of 200,000 watts. Acts like Excision, Andy C, and the highly-anticipated Shambs debut of Haywyre were not only properly heard, but also felt – especially if you stood right next to the speakers and let the sound take over your body. (Yes mom, I was wearing earplugs.)

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/244933770″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

The Grove 

Aptly nicknamed ‘the treehouse’, this stage is tucked away in a far corner of the farm, where you can chill in the treetops while taking in graceful sets and live performances such as Emancipator, CloZee and Five Alarm Funk. The Grove is accompanied by a forest with psychedelic artwork, as well as the Cedar Lounge, which has its own array of workshops happening throughout the weekend. It’s also home to the festival’s opening ceremony, which gives praise to the Earth that we all share.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/214587245″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Fractal Forest

One of the most iconic stages at Shams, one step within the forest will transport you to a lush, green realm with bass in the trunk and roots full of funk! With the return of legends such as The Funk Hunters and Stickybuds, along with the debut of funkalicious artists Father Funk and Defunk, it’s safe to say that the forest was lit the entire weekend – especially at night, thanks to its out-of-this-world light show and next-level stage setup.

Photo courtesy of Shambhala

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/266228335″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Atmosphere/Crowd vibe

Music aside, another driving force of the festival is the Shambhalove. In fact, it’s so widespread throughout the weekend, that calling the people of Shambhala a ‘crowd’ fails to capture the true essence of the atmosphere; rather, Shambhala feels more like a town that shows up once a year, and all of its inhabitants return home to dwell and revel during its brief appearance. The ‘townspeople’ themselves easily form a warm community – or better yet, a farmily.

Upon arrival at the farm, we instantly receive a joyous ‘Happy Shambhala’ from multiple volunteers – a phrase that is heard and said frequently through the course of the weekend, often accompanied with an ecstatic high-five or a bear-hug. It easily paves the way for a very open and welcoming space, which encourages you to let out your inner child, embrace your weird-kid side, and be the best damn you that you can possibly be – regardless of who what, and how you choose to represent yourself.

Aside from the festival

Shambhala is two completely different places depending on the time of day. From sunset to sunrise, all the ravers would spring forth, and dance until the sun started rising over the mountains. During the day, there’s a plethora of activities and sights, such as the marketplace with its many vendors, to daily scheduled yoga, and even some crews throwing some daytime parties of their own.

All partying aside though, the festival does everything it can to take care of its attendees, which includes its zero-alcohol policy, as well as the Shams Medic team  – who work so well in the background of everything that’s going on, that you almost don’t notice them as they whiz right by you. There’s also the ‘Safety Zone’, which consists of the Sanctuary (for that bad trip or a safe place to get away from all the noise),  the Womens’ Safe Zone, and the Ankors Tent, which provides free drug testing, as well as info on many popular drugs.

Shambhala is a prime example of a festival done right, and it’s very easy to see this, given its large turnout of repeat attendees, ranging from 3 consecutive years, to as many as 15. The hype for the 20th anniversary had begun before the 19th event even took place – for now, there’s not much currently known as to how they’ll celebrate two decades of Shambhalove, but rest assured it’s going to be a massive celebration all the same. Tickets go on sale September 1st – hope to see you on the farm next year! Happy Shambs. <3

The post A festival that dares to be different, Shambhala demonstrates how love is a powerful driving force appeared first on FUXWITHIT.

The post A Trip Through Haywyre’s Mind [Video Interview] appeared first on FUXWITHIT.