Establishing yourself as an annual staple within the realm of Electronic Music Festivals is a considerable challenge. Solidifying your existence within the city of Atlanta proves to be an equally onerous task. To simultaneously accomplish these merits would seem daunting, yet Shaky Beats Festival remains an entity deserving of high praise for meeting these demands time after time. Stunning art installations, intoxicating (literally and figuratively) attractions, incomparable fashion designs, and world-class artists were brought together to display an unrepeatable image within Atlanta’s Central Park.
Whether Dos Equis, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, or Patrón were your weekend cure, one fact remained present throughout – any interruption between obtaining your cocktails and enjoying the music was nonexistent. The entire layout was incredibly fluid (pun intended) and provided uncomplicated movement at all times. The only recurrent dilemma was the unfortunate moment when each set would come to an end. (Hey, no Music Festival is perfect!)
The festival rolled open it’s door at 12:30PM sharp to fans huddling in to get their places at the front row. The weather forecast was projected to be 100% rain for both days. Going into day one, I wasn’t sure if it was going to play in our favor. I remained optimistic due to some good friends in my corner. What we got, was a beautiful day that was unexpected.
Our first performance was Win + Woo over at the Ponce De Leon Stage. This was the stage to be at to hide from the powerful sun above. The Chicago duo kept the crowd on their toes from beginning to end. They had some dope visuals and if you missed them, make sure to add them to your musical bucket list.
Next up, we slid through What So Not on the Peachtree Stage. Been a big fan of WSN for years now. His musical productions are unique and they come from moments that are real. Some of his most notable records were put together last-minute while being “in the moment.” His stage production was my favorite of the entire festival. It was like a modern meets tribal setup that can best be described when viewed. So check out the photos below.
After we got our live performance fix, we headed back to Ponce De Leon stage to catch a girl who has been the talk of the town lately. We had heard from numerous sources that she throws down with her sets. Whipped Cream did just this and we were amped to finally witness it in person. The crowd was one of the biggest I saw at that stage all day. Props to this girl for grinding and can’t wait to see where she is at in a year from now.
Making our way for the first time to the Piedmont Stage, we grabbed the very beginning of British duo Snakehips. These guys have been vibes since day one and their sets don’t deviate. Most of their hits were played out, but “All My Friends” was the most well received from the screaming fans. If we are talking about a good time, you know we must be talking about Big G.
Big Gigantic is a staple in any music festival and their live sets are fun, funky, and downright awesome. You could feel the energy as soon as the boys took the stage. Their fan favorite “All Of Me” that features rapper Logic and recording artist ROZES was one of the best parts of the weekend. The sun was setting behind the mainstage. The rain continued to hold off, and the vibe from person to person was thriving.
There aren’t too many artists that are paving a new wave like the Dutch birdman, San Holo. He doesn’t need any gimmicks, his visuals are usually top quality, and the experience leaves you with a smile on your face. There were moments during his set that I just set there in awe. I finally realized how talented Sander is when he played at Buckhead Theatre last year. I beg that you see his show when he comes through your town next.
To close out day one, we had my favorite group of the day. Australian live electronic three-piece, Rüfüs Dü Sol! These guys came out of the darkness and lit up the night. It was a magical set with each of the tunes we have come to love. Their latest album, “SOLACE”, is a sonic masterpiece. From beginning to end, it’s a story worth sharing and a musical journey you can feel.
This predicament was most present during Chris Lake’s performance. His House tendencies caused an uncontrollable uproar for all dance enthusiasts! Better yet, the term “standstill” was simply imaginary. Chris Lake’s altruistic act comes in the form of music. His ability to perform appears effortless, yet the response from his fans would dictate a grandiose staging. His sets are constantly regarded as some of the best from any weekend; this one was no different.
From here, Gryffin’s reign over the Piedmont Stage was simply breathtaking. His live performance brought about a certain charisma that I had yet to experience. His set was filled with cherished classics, yet the introduction of his newest track added to the overall excitement. A stunning backdrop overlooks the Piedmont Stage, so every aspect of this hour setting was aesthetically pleasing.
After our American friend wrapped up the mainstage, we slid over to Ponce Stage to witness the greatest Canadian in all the lands, Vanic. Vancouver holds some of the beautiful views and this talented artist brings those serene experiences to us with each live set. This performance was no difference and you can ask the screaming, head-banging fans if you don’t believe us. When he played out his new single, “Safe Yourself”, there was an unusual amount of fans singing along. This is quite the feat knowing that it was released 24 hours before this moment.
Whip out the drums, Swedish duo Galantis is about to go bananas. These two might have had the most energy of the entire festival. We were worried for a moment that Bloodshy was going to kick a cymbal or break an leg (luckily there are two of them). Great set overall and the crowd seemed to enjoy it as well.
FISHER has been an unstoppable force in the scene over the last 8 months. He has gone from releasing his viral single, “Losin’ It” to headlining festivals all across the world almost overnight. You may be asking, how? Well, it is not only one song. It is his pure energy that only comes to the table when people are in love with what they are doing. The Fish obviously loves what he is doing and it shows. Crazy visuals that ironically make you “lose it.”
To close the night, Martin Garrix came out of darkness in aerial form. This established record producer has made a name for himself by working incredibly hard over the last 5 years. We love what he has built and his branding was in top form with the custom Plus Sign (+) LED board. The pyro, CO2 blasts, and lasers had us on our toes as well.
Thank you again Shaky Beats. It was a pleasure and we love what you continue to build. Look forward to seeing you in 2020!
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