When we opened a missive last night detailing the lineup for Electric Daisy Carnival Las Vegas’ 2014 lineup taking place in Sin City June 20-22, we immediately expected to see names like Tiësto, Afrojack, Steve Aoki and David Guetta. Guess what? We were right. While the 18th annual installment of EDC features all of the usual EDM suspects, if you look closely you’ll find that the bill includes a smattering of artists that don’t suck (ie. ones who we’d pay our hard-earned cash to see). Here are our seven picks listed in alphabetical order:
1. Andy C: The British drum ‘n’ bass master known for heading up RAM Records has been in the game since jungle ruled the UK’s club scene in the ’90s. He’s continually evolved his sound and hasn’t wavered one bit on his dedication to d’n’b. Expect lots of rewinds from this mighty selecta.
2. Booka Shade: Not only do these German house heroes release inspired music, but this veteran duo also present an amazing live show. Their set of warm beats and grooves will be a welcome relief to three days filled with pre-programed DJ sets.
3. Carl Cox & Friends: Representing quality techno, Cox brings his legendary mixing touch and a few USB sticks filled with fresh tunes from his Intec label to EDC.
4. DJ Dan: While the definition of house music has been obliterated by a generation of producers who don’t know Jack, DJ Dan, the L.A.-based purveyor of funky house, knows how to get a party started right.
5. Djemba Djemba: Making post UK bass music for a post bass world, Djemba Djemba’s blend of glitch and low-end-theory will be a welcome relief to the nonstop assault of untz.
6. George FitzGerald: As the world awaits the release of his Domino / Double Six album, FitzGerald, a resident DJ on BBC Radio 1, continues to trek around the world bringing forth his thoughtful blend of techno, dubstep, house and garage.
7. Skream: British DJ/producer/radio presenter Skream (a.k.a. Oliver Jones) earned his stripes playing bass music, but in recent years he’s expanded his musical horizons beyond dubstep and grime by wrapping his arms around various 4/4 styles such as house, techno and disco. The secret of Skream’s success is that he’s skilled in playing so many styles, which is the mark of every good DJ.