It feels like just yesterday we were at Submersion, gettin’ groovy together under the disco ball. The transition back into real life after such an unforgettable weekend is always a struggle. Still, thankfully, we have the memories, pictures, and videos to hold onto until we’re back at Paradise Lakes.
The excitement I felt as I walked into the campgrounds for the first time is indescribable. We glided past the gates to find a colorful, bustling community woven through the towering trees. The atmosphere is homey, familiar, yet fresh. First, we stumbled upon the Woods Stage and the infamous disco ball that still glistens during the day as the last few sunrays shine. The Woods Stage held the best energy throughout the weekend – nothing but smiles, laughs, and the occasional “f*ck off!”
Further into the trees is the Beach Stage along the sandy coast. The views behind this stage were magnificent, not to mention when the sun set and perfectly illuminated the Submersion sign in the water. Live painters lined the opposite side, adding flair to an already lively environment.
The vibes were high on Friday as day one had finally commenced!
All the drum and bass lovers promptly gathered at the Woods Stage for GXLY‘s US debut. The madness continued with DNB legends, such as S.P.Y and Shy FX, who kept everyone on their feet. All the hootin’ and hollerin’ from the crowd, myself included, was unreal. Likewise, hearing dozens of people shouting the lyrics when Pola & Bryson dropped their classic tune, “Phoneline,” is a memory that will live rent-free in my mind for ages.
Later on, after a quick reset, it was dubstep time. Caspa came out of the gate swinging, delivering one of the best sets I’ve seen from him! The chaotic energy grew as the night crept into the morning. The Joker slayed his set as always, and if you weren’t there for Ternion Sound B2B Chef Boyarbeatz… I’m so sorry.
The crowd’s liveliness at Submersion was top-tier – every set felt like a party!
Speaking of parties, Inspect3r threw his own to begin day two. Despite the heat, all the homies showed up and showed out! Down the road, FLY gave us his all for the perfect sunset set at the Beach stage. Saturday’s diverse lineup resulted in set conflicts, but luckily, the stages were close enough to bounce back and forth.
Another highlight of the night was Detox Unit paired with DR01D Visuals. Squiggly hues of blue twirled across the LED screen as he dropped banger after banger. Halogenix put on a passionate display under the giant disco ball, making his set a personal weekend favorite. He was accompanied by SP:MC, who afterward blew us away with a DJ set. Also, a major shoutout to Prosper. for keeping us awake and engaged so late in the night, which surely helped everyone prepare for that exceptional, soulful Alix Perez sunrise set. Hips were moving, tears were flowing – it was a great way to wrap up the weekend!
Traveling to a new music festival for the first time is invigorating, but it’s even better when that festival exceeds your expectations. Submersion is such an inspiring home to so many attendees, and I finally understand why. If you consider yourself a genuine music lover, this is the fest for you.
So… the same time next year?!
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