From Fritz Kalkbrenner to Jamie Jones and even Phil Kiernan, Barndance or BD Festival as it will now be known has always endeared to bring the Irish public some of the world’s most talented electronic artists. Their 2015 edition promises to be no different with a wealth of performers scheduled to indulge another projected sellout crowd. For those who will be in attendance we’ve chosen our five potential highlights. Honourable mentions go to Room 19 and Kaily who are sure to smash it too!
Leftfield (DJ Set)
From 1989 to 2002, Leftfield (Neil Barnes and Paul Daley) broke down the barriers of dance music and were one of the acts responsible for the explosion of progressive house. Following an 8 year hiatus, in January 2010, Barnes resurrected the band name and toured the world for a couple of years (stopping by for a stomping Electric Picnic performance). Now, in what looks like ideal timing, he has just announced a new album Alternative Light Source (due this June). Those who pre order the album can also avail of the free download Universal Everything, which sets the scene perfectly for what is a highly anticipated record!
Leftfield were hugely influential in the evolution of electronic music in the 1990s with Mixmag describing them as “the single most influential production team working in British dance music”. As with many of their contemporaries such as The Chemical Brothers, Leftfield were notable for their use of guest vocalists in their electronic music. WWD recommended.
Omar S
A man with more seminal records to his name than many will accumulate in a lifetime, Detroit maverick Omar S is a welcome addition to the BD lineup. Renowned for releasing through his very own FXHE label (run out of his basement) all the while keeping his day job at Ford Motors, the talented producer is somewhat of an enigma in dance circles. Expect an ecucational experience from one of the more controversial voices in dance music.
Benoit & Sergio
With a number of well known ditties to their names Benoit & Sergio the French/US pairing having been long time assets of the deep house scene. From smashes like Walk and Talk to 100$ bill the duo have an innate ability to create deep house ‘songs’ while still maintaining the utmost underground credibility. More recently they returned to stunning form the the fantastic That’s The Party Talking EP on Culprit, a sign that the production machine is well and truly back in order. Expect a big turnout at BD Fest for these much loved artistes.
Frank B
After catching this young Dubliner’s set at Electric Picnic a few years back, WWD are confirmed fans. Back over this side of the Atlantic once more following an extended stay in NYC the house spinner is certainly a welcome addition to this years lineup. Expect a carefully crafted set with some of his own stellar productions thrown in!
Ben Sims
A pioneer of the hardgroove style of techno and the man behind two of techno’s most famous bastions Hardgroove and Ingoma, Ben Sims is a technotastic proposition at this years festivities. With over 30 years experience he will be the perfect treat for some of Barndance’s more discerning dance fans. We’ll see you front and centre for this one.