Psytrance in New Zealand - The summer 2008

As the northern hemisphere turns cold, the outdoor Psytrance scene in New Zealand/Aotearoa kicks in. Events planned for this summer (December to March 2008) reflect the continuing growth and diversity of a unique scene that’s fuelled by the energy, passion and talent of many DJs, VJs, producers, record labels and party organisers throughout the country.

The number of up and coming producers playing live at events within New Zealand is seeing a healthy expansion, and they are well worth checking out if you get the chance. The music is fresh, often crossing many genres, with an earthy vibe and a sense of humour so typical of the kiwis.

All styles of Psy are represented, often within the same event, and increasingly other genres are present also, such as breaks, dub, electro and so on. For a country such as NZ with a small population, perhaps the multi genre events are the best way to grow the scene and make it sustainable.

Here are two of the main summer Psy events:

Alien Nation

Nelson, South Island. Feb 1-4th.

Psy, minimal, prog all in 1 zone.

Luminate ’08

Takaka Hill, South Island. February 7-11th 2008.

Psytrance in all its forms, world grooves, tribal, dub, breaks, live acoustic. Plus workshops, healing zone, market stalls, movies, sustainable art and more.

www.myspace.com/luminatefestival

There are plenty of smaller outdoor and indoor events on offer over the summer months and throughout the year, most regularly in Wellington, Christchurch, Auckland and Golden Bay. There are many other summer festivals too such as Parihaka Peace festival, with a small amount of Psy.

The best place to keep informed is at www.psydj.com or www.obscure.co.nz

Cosmic Conspiracy Recs, for a few years the only psy label in NZ, now with 5 successful releases, has been a major player in turning many kiwi trancers on to a minimal, night time, chunky progressive sound: www.cosmicconspiracy.co.nz

Native Harmonics Recs was formed recently, representing a broad spectrum of Psytrance, Dub and Breaks from mainly NZ producers: www.nativeharmonics.co.nz

Whilst Antix and Pitch Black are well known overseas, other acts to look out for include Cosm, Grouch, Psyzaak, Spoonhead, Cusp, Psysquatch, Invader Tron and many, many more. Check out their Myspace pages and you will be impressed. Also A-List recs are another new indie label.

It’s an exciting time for the scene here, and it’s a scene I’m almost tempted to keep quiet about so that it keeps its down to earth, open, extended family feel.

Psytrance travellers can rest assured that they are bound to find some special parties, amazing people and a very warm welcome at any time of year. Arohanui.

Submitted by:

DJ Maia (Organic Recs/Native Harmonics)

www.organicrecords.net

www.nativeharmonics.co.nz