Connect with us

Editorial

This was Dance Valley 2025

Unknown's avatar

Published

on

Dance Valley marked a significant milestone for the Netherlands’ electronic music scene on August 9th, 2025, celebrating 30 years of bringing world-class DJs to the scenic Spaarnwoude Recreational area. This Dance Valley Festival review explores how the festival balanced nostalgia with a modern twist.

Getting There

The journey to Dance Valley Festival began with shuttle buses from Amsterdam Sloterdijk, though navigation proved challenging as signage abruptly disappeared. Many attendees were lost searching for the correct pickup point downstairs. Pro-tip for those attending next year, go down the stairs!

Upon arrival, technical difficulties with internet connectivity created a 30-minute entry delay, forming long queues in the summer heat. This unfortunate timing meant that opening acts like DJ Ginia at the Rebl City stage (who we came early to see) performed to empty crowds, as eager festival-goers who had intentionally arrived early to catch these performances were stuck outside the gates.

Food & Drinks

Dance Valley Festival operated on a token system with pricing slightly above average for Dutch festivals of this scale. At 4 tokens for €20, beverages cost €4 for beer/water and €12 for canned cocktails. Food options ranged from festival staples like tostis (€8) to international cuisine, with standout gyoza offering good value at €10 for five pieces.

The festival excelled in creating comfortable spaces for relaxation, featuring multiple chill areas with hammocks, beach loungers, and the charming cocktail garden complete with a fountain, comfortable seating, and cushioned areas.

 

Stages

Main Stage

The Main Stage featured a colorful, carnival-inspired design with rainbow sunburst backdrop and multiple LED screens. Cloud-like projections enveloped performers, while multiple suspended screens formed an artistic cross pattern, delivering cinematic backdrops for headliners like Tiësto and Martin Garrix.

Transmission Stage

The Transmission tent emerged as the mecca for trance music. Featuring incredible laser displays and wild light shows that perfectly complemented performances by legends like Ferry Corsten and Giuseppe Ottaviani. The intimate tent atmosphere intensified the trance experience, making it a favorite destination for  attendees seeking genre purity.

Voltage Stage

Perhaps the festival’s most aesthetically pleasing stage, Voltage combined urban music  with stunning visual design. Flowers hanging from the ceiling swayed gently in the breeze, creating an unexpectedly beautiful atmosphere.

Raw Hardstyle and Rebl City Stages

Both hardstyle stages delivered the high-energy atmosphere the genre demands. The Raw Hardstyle stage featured a triangle structure with ample dancing space. While Rebl City’s wrap-around design allowed fans to surround the DJ booth. However, Rebl City’s popularity led to concerning overcrowding, particularly during Outsiders’ performance.

Desperados Stage

Hosted by Lucas & Steve and themed around the tequila beer brand, the Desperados stage delivered excellent pyrotechnics and old western aesthetics. However, the wooden plank construction on a hillside created dangerous dancing conditions, with festival-goers literally dancing sideways on unstable terrain.

Dance Valley 30 Years Stage

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the festival a special stage was dedicated to pioneers of electronic music scene. Leading up to the stage were photos of previous editions. The stage encompassed a large LED screen flashing the Dance Valley logo.

Techno Stage

This small intimate tent was the place to be for techno. Ravers could dance on top of elevated platforms on either side of the stage. Behind the DJ were large LED screens providing accompanying visuals.

The Music

Ferry Corsten Presents 25 Years of Gouryella

One of the most special moments of the day was Ferry Corsten’s emotional celebration of Gouryella’s 25th anniversary. Opening with “From the Heavens Mix,” the crowd sang along to “Marama (Moon & Stars)” with lyrics displayed on screens, creating a genuinely special moment that perfectly captured the festival’s nostalgic spirit.

Quintino

Quintino’s Desperados stage performance exemplified nostalgic festival euphoria, dropping crowd favorites like “Sloopkogel” and “Calabria”. Quintino transported us back to electronic music’s golden era. His infectious energy made this set my favorite of the day.

Tiësto

The most memorable festival  moment occurred during Tiësto’s performance of “Adagio for Strings,” when a helicopter dropped rose petals over the crowd. A spectacular gesture that demonstrated why Tiësto remains electronic music royalty. His setlist perfectly balanced classics like “Silence” with recent hits including “Hot in It” and “Jackie Chan.”

Levenkhan

For those who like their beats fast, Levenkhan brought the heat. Despite being at the same time slot as Martin Garrix, the die hards came out strong. Between his hits like “FCK SHII Up” and the “Better off Alone” remix, every last ounce of energy was left on the dancefloor.

Martin Garrix

The Dutch superstar’s closing performance delivered the emotional crescendo Dance Valley deserved, featuring anthems like “Hero,” “Starlight,” and “In the Name of Love” before culminating in an epic firework display that provided the perfect festival conclusion.

Overall Impressions

Overall, the vibes were immaculate and we were lucky to have beautiful weather (something you can’t take for granted in the Netherlands). Moreover, Dance Valley incorporated a lot of interactive elements like the beauty bar with free glitter and accessories, a small beach area for people to hang out, a ball pit. All small details which are very much appreciated.

However, concerning the theme, while Dance Valley celebrated its milestone with special merchandise and dedicated staging, the anniversary theme felt underdeveloped. Given the festival’s extensive video archive, incorporating historical footage via LED screens or creating dedicated viewing areas for classic after movies would have enhanced the nostalgic experience. For example, one of those inflatable cinemas you see at festivals, or even showing old footage on the LED screens on the Main Stage.

Another opportunity for improvement was regarding the sound, the most significant technical problem at Dance Valley was severe sound bleed. The sound bleed around the cocktail garden area where audio from four different stages created a cacophonous mix that detracted from all performances simultaneously.

Final Verdict: Dance Valley Festival 2025 Review

The festival delivered unforgettable moments through exceptional artist programming that reminded attendees why this festival has endured for three decades. The diverse lineup successfully catered to every electronic music taste, from hardcore enthusiasts to mainstream dance fans.

While technical issues, sound bleed problems, and some questionable stage designs revealed areas for improvement, the festival’s core strength bringing together incredible artists in a beautiful natural setting created memories that will last far beyond any operational shortcomings.

For electronic music fans seeking diversity and nostalgia, Dance Valley continues to offer experiences that justify its reputation.

Editorial

Shyra Sanchez Releases New Operator Remixes Package

Unknown's avatar

Published

on

Shyra Sanchez Releases New Operator Remixes Package With Dave Audé, Bimbo Jones, Until Dawn, Marc Baigent, and Try Harder

Shyra Sanchez releases new Operator remixes package as her debut single continues to gain support across dance radio, club charts, and international airplay. The original version of Operator has already reached No. 37 on the Billboard Dance Mixshow Airplay Chart, No. 34 on Mediabase, and No. 1 on the DRT Global Top 100 Independent Airplay Chart for two consecutive weeks, while also picking up UK Music Week club chart action and spins on Kiss FM’s Future Dance Anthems. With the record already moving across the US and UK dance music space, the remix package gives Operator a wider club run through new versions from Dave Audé, Bimbo Jones, Until Dawn, Marc Baigent, and Try Harder.

Operator Extends Its Run Beyond The Original Release

For a debut single, Operator has already gathered a strong amount of early support across several dance music channels. Its Billboard Dance Mixshow Airplay position points to US radio traction, while the Mediabase placement and two-week run at No. 1 on the DRT Global Top 100 Independent Airplay Chart show that the record has found movement beyond one isolated chart. The UK response adds another part to that story, with Music Week club chart activity and Kiss FM’s Future Dance Anthems giving the single more visibility on the other side of the Atlantic.

The remix package now extends that original run by giving DJs, radio programmers, and club selectors different versions of Operator to work with. Instead of treating the remix release as a separate add-on, the package keeps Shyra Sanchez’s vocal performance as the thread that connects each version back to the original. That helps the release stay focused on her as the artist behind the record, while still allowing each producer to take the single into a different club direction.

Dave Audé, Bimbo Jones, Until Dawn, Marc Baigent, And Try Harder Rework Operator

Dave Audé brings one of the strongest remix profiles to the package, arriving off the back of remix work for Katy Perry, Beyoncé, Madonna, and Jennifer Lopez. His version of Operator leans into a heavier club direction, with the press release pointing to its chunkier kick drum approach. Bimbo Jones, whose remix credits include Lady Gaga, Rihanna, and Kylie Minogue, takes the single into funkier house territory, giving the package a brighter and more groove-led version while keeping the vocal hook recognizable.

The rest of the package widens the single further without pulling it away from its original identity. Until Dawn takes Operator into a more bass-heavy version, adding extra weight to the release, while Marc Baigent and Try Harder complete the lineup with additional club-focused interpretations. Across the package, the remixes give Operator several routes into DJ sets, club floors, and dance radio, from funky house movement to heavier bass and kick-led versions.

As Shyra Sanchez prepares for her next single, Dance With Me, scheduled to arrive in June 2026, the Operator remixes package keeps her debut single active before the next release begins. With chart movement, radio support, club chart action, and a handpicked remix lineup now behind the record, Operator continues to introduce Shyra Sanchez to a wider dance music audience.

Continue Reading

Editorial

Bootshaus Marks 22 Years With L-Acoustics DJ Upgrade

Unknown's avatar

Published

on

A packed Bootshaus dancefloor lit in deep red, with the DJ booth and large overhead speakers visible above the crowd.

Bootshaus Marks 22 Years With L-Acoustics DJ Upgrade as the Cologne club brings 360° spatial audio to its Mainfloor

Since opening its doors in 2004, Bootshaus has built one of the most recognisable identities in electronic music. Based in Cologne, Germany, the club has spent two decades earning its place among Europe’s most respected spaces for electronic music, with a reputation tied to major international artists, high-level production, and a dancefloor that has become a destination for fans. As it marks its 22nd anniversary, Bootshaus is now making one of its biggest audio upgrades to date with the installation of L-Acoustics DJ on its Mainfloor. The new 8.1.7 A Series loudspeaker configuration brings 360° spatial audio into the club, allowing different parts of a record to move around the audience in real time. The system debuted on June 5 with Holy Priest, followed by Don Diablo on June 12. For a club that welcomes more than 200,000 visitors and 500 DJs each year, the upgrade gives Bootshaus a new technical edge while marking another step in its long-running influence on global club culture.

Bootshaus Brings L-Acoustics DJ To Its Mainfloor

As part of its 22nd anniversary upgrade, Bootshaus has installed L-Acoustics DJ with a new 8.1.7 A Series loudspeaker configuration in 360° on its Mainfloor. The system is designed to move past a standard stereo setup by separating parts of a record in real time and placing them around the dancefloor. For a venue known for high-production club nights, the upgrade gives artists another way to use the room during their sets while keeping their usual DJ workflow intact.

“Bootshaus has always been about the crowd, and spatial audio gives that energy a new dimension. The music stops playing at the crowd and starts moving around the audience, so a bassline can sweep across the floor or a vocal can land from above. It’s a new creative tool for the artists we book, and as one of the first clubs in the world to offer it, it’s a perfect way to celebrate our 22-year legacy while shaping the next chapter, always looking for new ways to deliver the best experience on the dancefloor,” said Tom Thomas, Managing Director at Bootshaus.

How L-Acoustics DJ Works Inside Bootshaus

L-Acoustics DJ runs on the L-ISA Processor II and is powered by Source Separate, a proprietary low-latency technology that uses machine learning to isolate the stems of a stereo track in real time. That means beats, basslines, melodies, and vocals can be separated while the DJ is performing, then positioned across different parts of the room. In practice, a vocal can be placed above the audience, a bassline can move across the floor, and separate elements of the same record can be heard from different points inside the club.

The system is also built to fit into existing DJ setups without forcing artists to rethink their set, routing, or technical rider. That detail matters in a club environment, where touring DJs, residents, and one-off bookings all need a setup that can work quickly on show night. For Bootshaus, the result is a new technical layer on the Mainfloor without changing the core function of the room as a high-intensity club space.

A New 360° A Series System For The Mainfloor

To support the full spatial potential of L-Acoustics DJ, Bootshaus has overhauled its Mainfloor sound system with an 8.1.7 A Series configuration in 360°. Two hangs of two A15 Wide over one A15 Focus flank the DJ booth and anchor the front of the system. Six additional hangs, each made up of one A15 Wide over one A15 Focus, extend around the sides and rear of the dancefloor to complete the horizontal field.

The height layer comes from seven X12 coaxial enclosures placed overhead. Two A15 Focus loudspeakers serve as DJ monitors, while the full system is powered by three LA7.16i amplified controllers. Together, the setup is built to provide the volume and low-end Bootshaus audiences expect while allowing specific parts of a record to be placed in ways a traditional stereo system cannot produce.

Bootshaus Continues Its Legacy In Cologne

Located on the banks of the Rhine in Cologne, Bootshaus has grown from a local club into one of the most recognised electronic music venues in the world. The club was named fourth in The World’s 100 Best Clubs 2025 by the International Nightlife Association and placed No. 5 in the 2024 DJ Mag rankings. Its lineups have brought in names across electronic music, including Charlotte de Witte, Amelie Lens, Skrillex, FISHER, Boris Brejcha, David Guetta, Avicii, and Diplo.

The wider Bootshaus ecosystem also includes its record label, Bootshaus Music, and destination festival Nibirii. With the addition of L-Acoustics DJ, the club is using its 22nd anniversary to update one of the most important parts of its identity: the sound of the room. For more information on Bootshaus, visit bootshaus.tv.

Continue Reading

Editorial

Joseph Desando’s Expanding Role In Global Dance Music

Unknown's avatar

Published

on

oseph Desando standing on an outdoor terrace in a black graphic T-shirt, with city buildings blurred in the background.

Joseph Desando’s Expanding Role In Global Dance Music as his production, engineering, and live performance work continues to reach major releases, festivals, and brand campaigns

Canadian artist Joseph Desando has spent much of his career behind the scenes of the electronic music industry. Over the last several years, his work has appeared across charting dance releases, major festival stages, brand campaigns, and international touring productions, helping establish a growing presence within the genre.

Desando has accumulated credits on more than 25 commercially released recordings that have collectively surpassed 60 million streams. Several projects connected to his work have reached the top of the Billboard Dance Airplay chart, a format where success is measured through sustained support and audience engagement. Building a catalog at that level requires consistency and the ability to contribute to records that continue finding listeners long after their initial release.

Screenshot

Joseph Desando’s Work With Loud Luxury

In recent years, much of Desando’s studio work has centered on collaboration with Canadian electronic music duo Loud Luxury. Since joining their creative team in 2024, he has contributed production, engineering, and live performance material used across international tours and official releases. Working with artists operating at that level requires more than technical ability. Festival performances, live shows, and commercial releases each demand something different, and maintaining an ongoing role within that process reflects a level of consistency that is difficult to achieve in a highly competitive industry.

Credits Across Dance Music, Festivals, And Brands

Among the more notable projects in Desando’s catalog is his contribution to an officially released remix connected to Taylor Swift. Released in late 2025, the record reached No. 1 on the U.S. iTunes chart, adding another milestone to a body of work that has steadily expanded across both the dance and mainstream music worlds. That consistency extends beyond a single collaboration. His credits also include work with fellow Canadian artist Frank Walker and Brazilian duo Cat Dealers, pointing to a producer whose work spans different markets, audiences, and creative approaches. Electronic music has always been an international genre, and Desando’s catalog reflects that reality through collaborations that reach across borders while remaining firmly rooted in dance music.

His work has also been featured at some of the world’s most prominent festivals, including Tomorrowland, Ultra Music Festival, Electric Daisy Carnival, and Stagecoach. Music created for those environments serves a different purpose than a traditional streaming release. Records designed for large-scale festival performances must connect immediately with audiences in real time, requiring producers to think beyond the studio and consider how music functions in front of thousands of people.

Beyond artist releases and live productions, Desando has contributed to projects for major brands including Tylenol Canada and Starbucks. Commercial work operates under a different set of creative requirements, where music must support a broader campaign rather than stand alone as an artistic statement. The ability to move between artist-driven projects and commercial work speaks to the versatility that has become a defining characteristic of his career.

From Studio Credits To Live Performances

Among the more distinctive projects in his catalog is Senna Driven, an electronic music project released alongside the São Paulo Grand Prix as a tribute to Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna. Projects of this nature require a balance between storytelling and production, creating music that serves a larger concept while remaining engaging on its own terms. In addition to his production work, Desando has maintained an active presence as a performer, appearing at Canadian festivals including VELD Music Festival and Escapade Music Festival. His work has also been released through major labels including Republic Records, Sony Music, Armada Music, and Universal Music.

As his list of credits continues to grow, Desando remains focused on the work itself. The projects may vary, but the common thread throughout his career has been a consistent role in music that continues to reach audiences across genres, markets, and platforms.

Continue Reading

Trending