Our Favorite EDM Moments of 2011

Chloe — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 01:41:17 +0000

My favorite moment in EDM from 2011 isn’t a “moment,” so much as it is a development. I’ve truly enjoyed watching the Swedes blow up over the course of the past year, to the point where they’re arguably the most dominant force in dance music. Some might argue it’s the Dirty Dutch that are running the scene, and they’ve definitely got an arsenal of talented producers. But the Swedes have and always will be my favorites (it’s probably my genes), and the fact that so many of them made huge moves this year makes me incredibly proud as a fan.

I remember finally getting a chance to see Swedish House Mafia perform as a group for the first time at EDC 2010 – and after that mindblowing performance (I STILL listen to that set from time to time… it’s too good!) I knew they were no longer “my” favorite DJs. They completely took it to another level in 2011; they abandoned Ultra Music Festival to throw Masquerade Motel, headlined every major national and international electronic festival (individually and as a group), turned out one of the biggest house anthems of 2011 with “Save the World,” and sold out Madison Square Garden in under 10 minutes. PRETTY impressive year, to say the least. I think my favorite moment from them in 2011 besides watching them headline at EDC Las Vegas, was Sebastian Ingrosso’s sold out show at Avalon Hollywood back in January. I’ve had my fair share of Avalon nights, but that one might just be my all-time favorite. Steve Angello made a surprise guest appearance, which made the crowd completely lose it, and the night extra memorable overall.

Then there’s Tim Bergling, otherwise known as Avicii. Where do I start? He went from having a relatively contained following in 2010 to being every college kid’s favorite DJ in 2011, and that’s not a bad thing! He’s been a key player in delivering EDM to the masses, by way of his packed tour schedule and influence on pop music (Leona Lewis, Flo-Rida, etc). There are few things more fun than an Avicii performance, and most people still find themselves beaming when the first few chords of “Levels” start to play – it’s infectious. When he dropped it at the Music Box in April, I instantly forced my friend to lift me up on his shoulders – I had to show my appreciation!

And no recap of the Swede’s success in 2011 would be complete without mention of the absolutely BONKERS duo that is Dada Life. Trying to pick a favorite Dada encounter this year doesn’t seem right or fair. They always manage to host the most ridiculous parties, and their ability to work a crowd is second to none (the bananas and champagne help, but there’s much more to it). It’s as if they’re dropping an entire album each time a new track releases – and nearly every EDM fan I’ve talked to, regardless of their preferred genre, appreciates what these two guys do. Stefan and Olle deserve the hype that surrounds them, and I have to congratulate them for inspiring me to purchase a banana costume to wear to the sold out Home Depot Center show in October.

[Can you spot the tandem bananas? I have to brag, one of those is yours truly.]

Then, enter Alesso. The guy is only 20 years old, but he’s already made a name for himself on the international EDM scene. The first time I heard his music was back in April, and now he’s headlining shows across the globe on a consistant basis. His remix of “Pressure” rivals “Levels” for anthem of the year, and I expect he’ll make it up to Avicii status pretty quickly. I’ve been fortunate enough to see him play a handful of times now, and each performance has left me wanting more. He owned his short but sweet 30 minute set on the mainstage at EDC Las Vegas, and his Nocturnal Wonderland show was flawless. However, nothing comes remotely close to the set he played at Monday Night Social at Playhouse; it was my first time seeing him perform an extended set at a small venue, so it’s definitely my favorite.

I can only imagine what the Swedes will accomplish in 2012, they set the bar extremely high this year. My guess is that we can expect more big things to come, and lots of exciting new house music. I can’t wait!

On Deck: Erick Morillo @ The Music Box LA, 12/15

Chloe — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:23:55 +0000

Mark your calendars – the critically acclaimed DJ and house producer Erick Morillo is heading out to The Music Box LA! Morillo is known for rocking clubs around the globe, especially for his Subliminal Sessions parties at Pacha, Ibiza each summer. On December 15th, he’s bringing the party to Hollywood. For a taste of what Morillo’s parties are like, check out the official video of “Live Your Life” below – and don’t miss out on the occasion!

Purchase your tickets HERE!

Click here for more Erick Morillo dates.
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Our Favorite EDM Moments of 2011

On Deck: Erick Morillo @ The Music Box LA, 12/15