Kaskade: Atmosphere Tour, Chicago
Last month I FINALLY had the chance to see Kaskade, live. Even if you’re not familiar with EDM (electronic dance music), chances are you’ve heard of Kaskade, otherwise known as Ryan Raddon, recently named America’s Best DJ 2013. Quite the title, huh? Doesn’t hurt that he’s also one of the highest paid DJs in the world, as noted by Forbes. Earlier this year, when I received an email for pre-sale tickets for the Atmosphere tour , I jumped at the chance and bought a few, assuming I’d find people who’d want to go. As luck would have it, the show happened to take place the same weekend my sister was in town for a medical conference. Now that we’ve both moved to different parts of the country, we don’t get to see each other as often. So when we do, we make it count!
Going into it, I had no idea what to expect. If there’s anything I’ve learned about concerts it’s that every city has its own unique type of concert ambiance, and after being stuck with some awful crowds (I’m looking at you, teenage Lollapalooza concert-goers), I was pleasantly surprised by the crowd at Kaskade. I was relieved to find a slightly older (aka, not in school), largely polite, and overall more fun demographic. I don’t even have to tell you how great the music was ( hello, best DJ in the country). The reason I’m drawn more to Kaskade over other DJs is his judicious use of vocals, creating ethereal, even haunting, elements. The show also featured an excellent visual production, including moving LCD screens, and a magic trick of sorts, when he disappeared into a cloud of smoke – only to reappear at the center of the arena. But of course the best part of EDM shows is the DANCING, and Atmosphere did not disappoint. There is something indescribably infectious about being amongst a sea of people moving to the music in unison amongst the beats, the synths, the rhythm; it’s as if you can feel the energy coursing through your veins! Takeaway… crowd: thumbs up, Kaskade: double thumbs up.
Ryan Raddon himself. We wound up really close to the stage!
I like this one because it looks like a psychedelic water-color painting. And you guys, he was looking right at me, I know it!!! 😉
Amazing, amazing show. Easily in my top 5 concerts of all time. And if you’re going to ask me what the other four are, well, I’d really have to think about that for a while!
The other good news about sis being town was that she got to see my new place! I was beyond thankful to have her around for the moral support with moving across town from the place I was subletting (she is the tetris-car-packing genius!) and it was fun having her as my first overnight guest. As you can see, my current decor would best be described as “minimalist!” Buying a sofa is on my list of things to do…
The next morning we met up with several friends for brunch at a spot in my new neighborhood, before she headed to the airport. Miss her already, and can’t wait till she comes back to visit. Hopefully I’ll have more furniture by then!
Want to check out a few Kaskade tracks? Try:
Last Chance
4am (Adam K & Soha Mix)
Room For Happiness (featuring Skylar Grey)
I Remember (feat Deadmau5)
Kavi360 