As the colder months slowly creep up and we settle in for winter, we can’t help but reminisce of warmer days spent with friends. Of all the music festivals the DMNW crew has been lucky enough to attend, there are always a few that tend to leave a lasting impression beyond the festival grounds. Since our first year attending in 2016, Bass Coast has been one of those festivals. From its humble beginning in 2009, the event has grown to become one of the West Coast signature bass music events. Earlier this month the festival kicked off its 10th anniversary with a night full of Bass Coast vibes.
One thing we’ve always enjoyed about Bass Coast is how incredibly active it keeps with its fans, even after the festival. Whether it’s hosting a Halloween party or the Mutiny Tour, organizers keep the flame going all year round. Last weekend was no exception, and with a sold out crowd at the Commodore in downtown Vancouver you can bet this was going to be a night to remember. The decor featured hints of festivals stages with a backdrop of streamers from the main stage and even the crawling arches with projected graphics from this year’s Slay Bay. The environment felt familiar, friendly and welcome, almost like we’d never really left Merritt.
Photo: Betty & Kora
To kick off the night, the stage had a full out SHAHdjs rinse featuring Willisist, J.F. Killah, Myles Away, Erksi and more. The guys and gals of SHAHdjs (also celebrating their 10 year anniversary this month) are no strangers to the Bass Coast community and have always put on one of the best sets of the festival. As the room began to reach full capacity, Portland-based producer, Barisone turned it up a notch and continued to bring the Bass Coast heat. Having just released his 2017 performance we’d already had his set on repeat prior to this night and for a 2nd time was able to make sure we couldn’t stand still.
By the time Lighta Sound’s, Michael Red hit the stage The Commodore was packed wall to wall and the energy was through the roof. Undoubtedly a Vancouver favorite, Michael Red was at home with this Bass Coast crowd and pulled out all the bassy goodness. As if this wasn’t enough, the stage was soon graced by non-other than the always wonderful Flavio. By this time we really couldn’t help but feel like we were back at Radio Stage.
Photo: Betty & Kora
The final act of the night was a 90 minute back-2-back set with Bass Coast co-founder The Librarians and Mat the Alien. With both Andrea and Mat having deep crates of tracks, it’s always a treat to get them b2b. While the set could really be described by a number of words, only 2 seem fitting: REALLY GOOD! Having played the opening set of the weekend earlier this year at Shambhala, and countless Facebook livestreams and even more b2b sets prior the pair always make for a great time.
Photo: Betty & Kora
By the end, we were even more excited to return for our 3rd Bass Coast and celebrate the 10th version this coming July. The night was a reminder of what makes Bass Coast so special and how a festivals involvement with the community really help make all the difference. Tickets for the 10th edition of Bass Coast are currently on sale but have already sold more than 50%. We would highly advise you to pick up a pair if you’re looking to experience this festival, as it’s well worth the cost.
Bass Coast returns to Merritt, British Columbia July 6-8, 2018. As always be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates, news and details of all things dance music in the PNW.
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