With literally hours left of 2016, most music enthusiasts and festival free spirits have swapped their flower crowns for ear muffs. The grand majority of festivals in the United States fall during the warmest months of the year. Coachella, Bonnaroo, Austin City Limits, and Lolla are all synonymous with sun-burnt shoulders, airy dresses, and the tangy-sweet smell of sunscreen. There’s a lot of competition for both fans and artists, if you’re a new festival on the scene. What do you do?
Cast a light in the dark.
This weekend, Houston, Texas will host the second annual Day for Night. Deemed the “festival of the future” by numerous sources, Day for Night has used the shadows and chill of December to create something new and miraculous. Marrying world-renowned musicians with immersive art exhibits and installations, Day for Night has gifted our ears and eyes with a new sensory festival that explores light, technology, sound, and space.
There are many jaw-dropping moments to be had this weekend. If you haven’t already secured your tickets, and are in driving distance of Texas, get in your car and don’t stop till you hit Franklin Street.
Here is what we can’t wait to see:
Bjork: Just saying her name evokes swirls of colors and a symphony of sounds. Day for Night will host Bjork Digital-- a new perplexing art installation showcasing all of her mediums in an 360-degree showcase. Rumor has it part of this installation makes attendees “feel” like they are being swallowed by the Icelandic goddess. Bjork had a dedicated DJ sets on eve of the festival, and will play again on Sunday.
Aphex Twin: Day For Night will mark Grammy Award winning Richard David James’ first US appearance in eight years. Eight years. The legendary musician, composer, and DJ will play a two-hour set on Saturday night. I don’t have the slightest clue what to expect, but I can assure you this set will be the one to see this weekend.
S U R V I V E: This Austin-based silent synth act shot into stardom after making the eerie, nostalgic noise paired with Netflix’s hit series “Stranger Things.” If you like the show, that’s just fine, but this quartet is worth much more of your time. Their album RR7349 just dropped in September and it’s brilliant. Their black, moody spell must be seen by Texans and visitors alike.
DJ Windows 98: If you are fans of the flashy and truly fantastic Arcade Fire, make sure you save time for DJ Windows 98 this weekend. Windows 98 is the moniker of AF’s Win Butler and is described as a “departure from the indie rock of Arcade Fire.” Fans should expect to dance to the sounds of Kanye, Outkast, and The Knife.
Day For Night will also host Tycho, ODESZA, Blood Orange, Little Dragon, Nick Murphy (Chet Faker), BANKS, and a slew of other artists we love.
Get ready for a wild weekend.
