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DJ Hydra Drops Debut EP ‘Moyo Wa Upendo’ On OVAVA Music

A rising force in the Afro House scene, DJ Hydra’s ‘Moyo Wa Upendo’ marks OVAVA Music’s 8th release. Having gained serious momentum in the run-up to his debut single release ‘Bamidele’, this two-track EP further establishes DJ Hydra’s position as one of the genre’s most exciting new talents.

The emotionally charged track ‘Moyo Wa Upendo’ leads the EP. Meaning ‘heart of love’ in Swahili, the single uses an emotive blend of Afrocentric rhythms, warm electronic textures, and original Swahili vocals. Blending tight rhythms, textured electronic soundscapes, and evocative storytelling, it showcases DJ Hydra’s signature style and bold artistic vision.

Rooted in tradition yet forward-thinking in its execution, ‘Moyo wa Upendo’ is a powerful tribute to heritage and a symbolic return to his roots. An intimate journey inviting listeners to connect with sound, culture, and identity, this release cements Hydra as one of Afro House’s most compelling new voices.

The B-side track, ‘Like House’, completes the stand-out EP, complimenting the lead with high-energy percussion and a raw Afro House spirit, crafted for the dancefloor but standing in authenticity. Together, the tracks showcase DJ Hydra’s distinct musical vision, bridging introspective storytelling with energetic impact.

DJ Hydra Moyo Wa Upendo EP
DJ Hydra – Moyo Wa Upendo EP

Set to drop his own label, Suru Records, with the release of BamideleDJ Hydra has spent years refining his signature sound. Drawing inspiration from musical legends like Keinemusik and Black Coffee, his releases span intimate dancefloors and the biggest stages. Adding to his momentum, this signing on OVAVA Music is set to elevate the artist’s success to another level.

Following a standout year for OVAVA Music and its label head Ollie Mundy, the institution continues to celebrate major successes. Since its launch, OVAVA Music has become a recognized industry leader for its cutting-edge releases, collaborations, and chart-topping hits.

With high-profile support, Ollie Mundy and the label have been spotlighted in the likes of Mixmag, DJ Mag, and Techno Mood and with an exciting year ahead, including his returned residency at the renowned PikesBack To Mine’ in Ibiza, fans can look forward to a stream of releases and milestones for the summer and beyond.

With this release, DJ Hydra continues his ascent as one of the most compelling new voices in global Afro House, amplified by the support of OVAVA Music. ‘Moyo Wa Upendo’ is out now just for your listening pleasure.

Listen to the track below.

CASH ONLY & VSTRV Drop Highly Anticipated Afro-House Hit ‘No Way’

UK imprint Famous When Dead Records keeps their momentum rolling with a solid flow of club-focused cuts fueling dancefloors and climbing charts with every release. This new collaboration features label head CASH ONLY teaming up with rising West London rapper and vocalist VSTRV (Pronounced ASTRA) for “No Way”.

This signature track showcases the bold artistry propelling the label toward becoming one of this year’s top independent forces. The song dives deep into Afro-inspired rhythms, taking on a resounding Melodic House persona with a succinct driving bassline, punctuated synths interplayed with uplifting piano riffs, and a standout vocal hook.

The highly talented VSTRV is known for his raw, genre-blending style actively influenced by R&B, Hip-Hop, and UK-Afro vibes. His lyrics proudly push the song into a crossover single that’s destined to cycle throughout the summer.

Supported by a string of leading players including Don Diablo, Sam Divine, Hector Romero, Shiba San, Soul Central, Re-Tid, and Robert Owens, “No Way” champions themes of resistance, self-assurance, and cutting through the noise.

It provides a striking blend of underground House with vocal-driven energy that instantly highlights the synergy between CASH ONLY on production and the lyrical power of VSTRV.

CASH ONLY & VSTRV No Way
CASH ONLY & VSTRV – No Way

CASH ONLY comments: “This track has been a secret weapon for me over the last 18 months and has evolved over several different versions until we got it to a place that felt right. The final version represents everything I love about this side of House Music. VSTRV is such a talent, and I’m excited to get more of our collabs out soon!”

Since returning to the studio in late 2023, CASH ONLY has been on a sharp rise, with standout releases like ‘Take It Down‘ ft Reigns and ‘Holy Water‘ ft China Charmeleon hitting #2 on the Afro Chart TS and approaching a million streams.

With over 30k monthly listeners and releases on Dvine Sounds, Nervous, and King Street Sounds, he’s fast becoming a global name to watch, backed by a growing DJ career with upcoming sets at Glastonbury, Defected Croatia, Reading, and Parklife.

Famous When Dead Records, co-founded by CASH ONLY and abstract street artist Famous When Dead, has earned a reputation as a launchpad for emerging talent, merging electronic music with visual art through a bold, anti-establishment lens.

With past collaborations from artists like Xamount, Konstantin Kobra, and Reigns, the label continues championing creative evolution, now adding VSTRV to its fast-growing roster.

No Way is out now on all major streaming platforms, solidifying CASH ONLY, VSTRV, and Famous When Dead Records as key players in today’s electronic music landscape.

Listen to the track below.

Tomorrowland Brasil adds Argy, Deadmau5, DJ Tennis, and more for 2025 edition

Tomorrowland 2024
Tomorrowland 2024

The countdown to Tomorrowland Brasil 2025 is on! The festival has just added Argy, Avalon Emerson, AZYR, Deadmau5, DJ Tennis, Green Velvet, Joyhauser, Nico Moreno, Shimza, and Space 92 to the list of artists set to perform at the 2025 edition, which returns to the stunning festival area of Parque Maeda in Itu, São Paulo, on October 10-12.

First revealed at Tomorrowland‘s special 20-year anniversary edition in Belgium in 2024, the breathtaking ‘LIFE‘ Mainstage will travel to Brazil, a prequel to the 2016 ‘Elixir of Life‘ theme set in the mythical realm of Silvyra, where nature, creatures, and people coexist in harmony.

Set against the backdrop of Brazil’s enchanting natural beauty, Tomorrowland Brasil 2025 will showcase a diverse and eclectic line-up of electronic music with over 150 of the world’s best artists performing across 6 fabulous stages.

Tomorrowland Brasil

Along with earlier announced renowned artists like Agents Of Time, Alesso, Alok, ANNA, Antdot, Armin van Buuren, Axwell, Bhaskar, Bibi Seck, B Jones, Bora Uzer, Cassian, Cat Dealers, Curol, Da Tweekaz, David Guetta, Dimitri Vegas, DubVision, Fedde Le Grand, Henri PFR, Ida Engberg, I Hate Models, James Hype, John Newman, KASIA, Kevin de Vries, Kevin di Serna, Kölsch, Konstantin Sibold, Laidback Luke, Layton Giordani, Lost Frequencies, Lucas & Steve, MANDY, Matisse & Sadko, Max Styler, Maz, Meduza, Mees Salomé, Mind Against, Miss Monique, NERVO, Nicky Romero, Olympe, R3HAB, Reinier Zonneveld, Samm, Steve Aoki, Third Party, Vintage Culture, VTSS, Yotto, Yves V, Zerb, and many more, the festival has now added some more legendary acts, including Argy, Avalon Emerson, AZYR, deadmau5, DJ Tennis, Green Velvet, Joyhauser, Nico Moreno, Shimza, and Space 92.

Tomorrowland Brasil
Tomorrowland Brasil

A unique camping experience at DreamVille

DreamVille, Tomorrowland Brasil‘s official camping site, offers a unique camping experience and a magical 5-day escape right next to the festival area of Parque Maeda, including a wide range of accommodations.

More than just a place to stay, it’s a lively city where festivalgoers eat, sleep, and celebrate together from Thursday to Monday. Guests can explore the Marketplace with shops, food stands, a bakery, a beauty salon, and more, or unwind with yoga sessions and sports activities.

From Friday to Sunday, exclusive Daybreak Sessions add to the magic. The adventure begins on Thursday with The Gathering, Tomorrowland Brasil‘s one and only open-air opening party, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend.

Tomorrowland Brasil 2024
Tomorrowland Dreamville

Neversea Kapital Adds John Summit and Paul Kalkbrenner to Its Already Stellar Lineup

Neversea Kapital marks its debut in Bucharest, Romania’s vibrant capital, with a strong lineup this summer.

John Summit and Paul Kalkbrenner are the latest superstar additions to Bucharest’s biggest music festival, taking place from July 4 to 6 at the National Arena across three stages.

Alok, Axwell, Don Diablo, Kaaze, KSHMR, Lost Frequencies, Nervo, Salvatore Ganacci, Sickick, Steve Aoki, Claptone, MËSTIZA, and Tujamo will headline the mainstage.

The techno stage, called Temple, will host the world’s No. 1 techno DJ Charlotte de Witte, as well as Deborah De Luca, Korolova, Nina Kraviz, Mau P, Cezar, Priku b2b Arapu, Charlie, Sublee, Cap, and Kozo. The Ark stage will host local rap, trap, hip-hop, and pop music.

 

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Chicago’s house superstar John Summit is redefining the global electronic music scene. Recognized by Rolling Stone as “The Hottest Name in Dance Music” and described by Variety as “One of EDM’s Biggest Rising Stars,” he is considered the new must-have act. In 2025, John Summit’s tracks have surpassed 1.5 billion streams on Spotify, and he’s making global waves.

Neversea Kapital lineup
Neversea Kapital 2025 lineup

Paul Kalkbrenner, one of the most respected live electronic music performers, has redefined the techno sound. Born in Berlin, Kalkbrenner rose to fame in the 2000s with a distinctive style that defies convention. Instead of DJing, he performs his music live using both hardware and software, creating a unique experience at every show.

Neversea Kapital is the brand-new Romanian festival of the creators of UNTOLD (Europe and Dubai) and Neversea Festival. The first edition will be held in less than two weeks, from July 4 to 6, at Romania’s biggest stadium, the National Arena.

 

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Tickets are available HERE.

The organizers are also preparing for the 10th anniversary of the iconic UNTOLD Festival in Cluj-Napoca, from August 7-10, and the second edition of the biggest festival ever held in the United Arab Emirates, UNTOLD Dubai, from November 6-9.

EXIT Festival Announces Final Edition in Serbia

exit

Twenty-five years ago, EXIT Festival was born as a student movement for peace and freedom in Serbia and the Balkans. Since then, it has grown into one of the world’s leading festivals and a global symbol of unity, positive social change, and youth empowerment.

Since EXIT Festival publicly aligned with Serbia’s student-led anti-corruption protests—following the tragic Novi Sad station collapse in November 2024 that claimed 15 lives, state-backed pressure has ramped up.

EXIT has since been stripped of all government funding, including cultural grants, due to its stance. Sponsors have also been forced to withdraw, pressured by pro-government actors.

Read the full statement below:

“Through music, creativity, and activism, EXIT has connected generations and nations, rebuilt broken ties, and built bridges where others route to divide. We have brought numerous European festival awards to our country and region, along with hundreds of millions of euros in tourism revenue and international recognition that global experts consider invaluable.

However, ever since we publicly stood with the students of Serbia in their fight for a freer and more just society, we have been subjected to immense financial and political pressures aimed at stripping us of our fundamental rights to freedom of thought and expression. Despite being completely cut off from public funding at all levels of government, and with some sponsors forced to withdraw under state pressure, we refuse to be silenced.

As a result, this year’s anniversary edition will be the last to take place in a Serbia where freedom of speech is systematically suppressed.

“This is the hardest decision in our 25-year history, but we believe that freedom has no price. With this act, we are defending not only EXIT, but the fundamental right to free expression for all cultural actors around the world. We invite them to stand with us in this fight” said Dušan Kovačević, founder and director of the EXIT Festival group.

“While we know we are welcomed with open arms around the world, we owe our audience one last dance at the Petrovaradin Fortress. That is why our entire team is more determined than ever to make this year’s edition the most emotional and unforgettable yet.

EXIT 2025 will take place from July 10–13 in Novi Sad, when together with students we will mark 25 years of fighting for the better world. EXIT is not just a festival — EXIT is all of us who believe we can make a change. And just as we ignited the spark of change together a quarter of a century ago, today we once again defend the right to live freely.

If this truly is the last EXIT at the Fortress, let it be unforgettable. Let it be our strongest yet — a festival remembered not for its end, but for its unity. For love. For freedom.”

Nicole Moudaber steps into the ASOT spotlight with explosive new track ‘Soul Brothers’

For over 20 years, A State of Trance has stood as one of the most respected names in electronic music. Now, techno titan Nicole Moudaber steps into the ASOT spotlight with her explosive new single ‘Soul Brothers’.

Known for her raw energy and boundary-pushing sound, Nicole Moudaber brings her signature techno edge to ‘Soul Brothers‘. The track is a high-energy blend of rolling basslines, hypnotic rhythms, and an irresistible vocal hook that grabs you from the start and never lets go. It’s pure dancefloor heat — fast, fierce, and full of soul.

Here’s what Moudaber had to say:

“This one means a lot to me – it’s my first ever release on ASOT. I knew this track had something special, so I sent it to Armin, and he was all in. I’ve done a few remixes for Armada before, but officially joining the ASOT family feels huge. This is for my dancefloor warriors – trance-infused techno with groove and a bit of soul.” 

Nicole Moudaber Nicole Moudaber
Nicole Moudaber – Nicole Moudaber

Soul Brothers‘ also marks a milestone in Moudaber‘s journey, as she ventures into the world of trance for the first time under the ASOT banner. Since its launch in 2003, the label has been at the forefront of the global trance and progressive scene, shaping the sound of a generation with Armin van Buuren leading the charge.

This release isn’t just a crossover — it’s a statement. Moudaber continues to blur genre lines, proving once again why she’s one of the most fearless artists in the game. With ‘Soul Brothers‘, she bridges the gap between techno and trance, creating something fresh, powerful, and ready to shake dancefloors worldwide.

Listen to the track below.

Tomorrowland & One World Radio unveil a unique new podcast series, Fondue Friends

Tomorrowland & One World Radio are excited to unveil ‘Fondue Friends’, a unique podcast series featuring Dutch legend Armin van Buuren, American artist LP Giobbi and Australian twin sisters NERVO.

Recorded during Tomorrowland Winter 2025 in the stunning alpine setting of Alpe d’Huez in France, this three-part series captures an exclusive fondue lunch shared by the three artists.

As they open envelopes with personal, funny, and thought-provoking questions, listeners are invited into an intimate, surprising, and heartfelt conversation that dives deep into their lives – past, present, and future.

Tomorrowland Podcasts
Tomorrowland Podcasts Fondue Friends

From laughter to vulnerability across three intimate episodes, ‘Fondue Friends‘ offers a rare and touching glimpse into the minds and hearts of these world-renowned DJs and producers beyond stage.

Here’s what Armin van Buuren had to say:

“I started this WhatsApp group – there’s 125 DJs in there. We share about the darker side of the DJ industry. We have meetings, and we organized a retreat with DJs. We do yoga, we eat vegetarian for a week, we go for walks, and we talk about the difficult parts.

Not to say our job isn’t nice, because I feel blessed to do what I do. I wish there was more of a message to young people, saying – yes, the DJ world is amazing, and part of the fairytale is true, but there’s a big but.

Sooner or later, every single DJ is going to run into a big wall. We can’t complain, because we do have the best job in the world. But there needs to be room for saying I feel like shit today.”

LP Giobbi added: “My fiancé was wearing an LP Giobbi shirt and was showing a house to somebody. The person was like ‘oh LP Giobbi, she’s married to DJ Tennis, right? I love them!’ My partner was like ‘actually we are engaged’. That was the funniest thing ever.”

NERVO: “We were full-time songwriters before we were DJs. We will go back – we’re in the studio once a week now.”

The ‘Fondue Friends‘ podcast series is part of the broader Tomorrowland Podcasts collection, which brings together a variety of immersive stories such as ‘20 Years, 20 Questions‘, ‘One World Radio Cable Casts‘, and ‘My Way‘.

These podcasts transport fans, visitors, and curious listeners into the enchanting universe of Tomorrowland. Whether unveiling behind-the-scenes moments or sharing untold narratives, each episode extends the Tomorrowland experience beyond the festival grounds – capturing its magic through words and sound.

DGTL Unveils Full Lineup For Amsterdam Dance Event 2025

Once again, the raw industrial environment of Amsterdam’s iconic NDSM Warehouse will serve as the backdrop for one of Amsterdam Dance Event’s most progressive and anticipated programs, DGTL ADE.

From Thursday, October 23 to Sunday, October 26, the revered Dutch festival returns with six standout shows that push the boundaries of electronic music – from rousing live shows to deep night sets that only end as dawn breaks.

Each day has its own defined character: from colorful pop and disco to dark techno, and from dreamy melodic electronica to high-energy house. One of the biggest tickets on the ADE calendar, here’s how the shows break down.

DGTL ADE 2025
DGTL ADE 2025 lineup

Thursday, October 23: An Explosive Opening

DGTL kicks off ADE 2025 with Australian outfit Confidence Man, bringing their flamboyant and wildly danceable live show to Amsterdam. One of the hottest dance acts on the planet, their no-holds-barred blend of disco, electro and pop, drenched in tongue-in-cheek theatrics sets the tone for what’s to come.

That same night, DGTL dives straight into the deep end with a two-headed club program showcasing the forward-thinking spirit the brand is known for. In Area 1, artists like SAIDAH, Diffrent and Benwal build the tension toward peak-time sets by Daria Kolosova and Pegassi.

Area 2 serves an eclectic menu of high-octane energy, including promising duo Emvae & Moxes, whose profile has risen significantly in recent months. Their unique blend of raw breaks, hypnotic techno and emotional layers saw them earn an honorable mention from Dutch music bible 3voor12 as “ones to watch”.

With boundless energy in the booth and a sharp sense of build-up, the pair have become renowned for setting every dance floor they encounter on fire. Together with DJ Fuckoff they ensure a tireless night, perfect for those who don’t plan to stand still for a moment.

Friday, October 24: MEUTE

Arguably the most unique act across the entirety of ADE is German techno marching band MEUTE. Bringing an unforgettable early-evening live show that blends brass and beats in stunning harmony, expect a unique, genre-defying night.

Saturday, October 25: From Golden Hour to Pitch Black

During the day, Ben Böhmer crafts a carefully composed line-up featuring melodic and deeply emotional electronic music. Think deep grooves, dreamy builds, and a golden hour feeling that will fill the room.

Among others on the line-up, Mees Salomé who promises to set the tone with his profound and progressive sound, in which layered construction and a strong connection with the dance floor are both central.

Parra for Cuva (live) takes over with his characteristic mix of soulful electronics and worldly samples: an atmospheric set with a sublime chill factor that floats somewhere between euphoria and melancholy.

Closing out the day program, Ben Böhmer takes to the stage with his beloved live show; atmospheric, melodic and perfectly balanced between introspection and danceable energy. In Area 2 the energy shifts from dreamy to uplifting, with acts such as Juno Mamba, Joplyn (live) and Deer Jade, each giving their own twist to the club sound of today.

Once the NDSM warehouse empties, doors open again at 23:30 for the nighttime round. In the dark, the atmosphere takes a radical shift, becoming a battleground for the heavyhitters: Patrick Mason, 999999999, Boys Noize & SPFDJ and Anetha line-up for a relentless audiovisual assault of raw intensity and high-impact energy.

In Area 2, SESH takes over with a raw, uncompromising and edgy lineup including MCR-T, future.666 and Somewhen – a fiery homage to underground rave culture.

Sunday, October 26: DGTL x FUSE

This year’s traditional DGTL Sunday is all about FUSE, the legendary London collection known for its refined selection, impeccable curation, and timeless house sound. Area 1 is led by heavyweights like Raresh, Traumer and Enzo Siragusa, bolstered by fresh and contemporary names including Rossi and Sweely.

Area 2 plays host to hand-picked selectors including Ogazón, Call Super, Shanti Celeste, Dr Banana and the Dutch DouDou MD, known for her rhythmically strong, spiritual and percussive vinyl sets brimming with 90s inspired house and techno. An intimate, deeply danceable conclusion to four days of pure electronic excellence.

Tickets available HERE.

MRAK to Curate Day 2 of Afterlife Festival Barcelona 2025

MRAK

This June Afterlife Festival will hosted over two days individually curated by global electronic trendsetters MRAK and ANYMA.

Afterlife Festival is set to debut at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on June 13 and 14, 2025, with a two-day program that explores the full depth and emotional spectrum of the legendary Afterlife sound.

Saturday belongs to MRAK — the solo project of Carmine Conte, co-founder of Tale Of Us and a visionary in the world of melodic techno who has curated a bold line, while Friday‘s experience will be curated by ANYMA — the solo project of Matteo Milleri.

 

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More than just a solo venture, MRAK represents Conte‘s deeper, more introspective creative journey. While Tale Of Us has shaped much of the Afterlife identity, MRAK delves into the more conceptual and experimental realms of Conte’s artistry, where music becomes a medium for story telling, transformation and immersive experiences.

Saturday at Afterlife Festival will reflect MRAK‘s distinct vision with a musical narrative that is emotionally rich and artistically daring, guided by his personal approach to composition, performance and visual storytelling.

The day promises an intimate yet grand-scale exploration of what Afterlife has become: a world built not just on music, but on connection with CamelPhat, Gordo, Layla Benitez, 19:26, Omnya, 8KAYS, Alfa Romero, Asal, Øostil and EarthLife all playing.

Set across two custom-designed stages, the festival will be heightened by cutting-edge production, stunning visuals and the signature Afterlife atmosphere that continues to push the boundaries of what electronic music events can be.

MRAK‘s day at Afterlife Barcelona is a reflection of his creative spirit and exclusive chance for long-standing fans and new listeners alike to experience the next chapter of Afterlife through his lens.

Tickets:
Friday / Saturday

Seth Hills joins forces with DAMEN on ‘Losing My Mind’

Dutch electronic powerhouse Seth Hills joins forces with rising South African DJ/producer DAMEN to deliver an emotionally-charged, club-ready anthem ‘Losing My Mind’, released on Tomorrowland Music.

Blending hard-hitting beats, soaring synths, and raw emotion, ‘Losing My Mind‘ is a high-energy, dark, and bold anthem about the moment everything feels like it’s slipping away.

From the very first beat, it builds tension, then drops into a heavy, bass-driven hook that’s made for festival stages and late-night drives alike.

Seth Hills & DAMEN Losing My Mind
Seth Hills & DAMEN – Losing My Mind

With its emotional vocals, polished production, and undeniable energy, ‘Losing My Mind‘ is poised to be a standout moment in both artists’ catalogs – and a must-add for any summer playlist.

Listen to the track below.

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