5 Must See Acts When CRSSD Festival Returns to San Diego Waterfront Park This Weekend, September 24-25

CRSSD Festival will be returning to San Diego Waterfront Park this weekend, September 24-25, and bringing with it the best and brightest artists in the electronic music scene, with a focus on house, techno, and eclectic live acts. Fans will not only be able to enjoy global talent and rising stars, but also craft food and cocktails from various vendors, new gear at the Tech Center, and all that downtown San Diego before and after the events of the day. Here are my recommended 5 Must See Acts for this weekend!

Fred again..

This name should come as no surprise after his sensational Boiler Room performance blew up last month. Fred describes his music as “Actual Life,” a trademark sound that features vocals uncovered from the unlikeliest of sources. The London-based songwriter and producer treats his electro and rave-inspired songs as diary entries – not just his personal entries, but also those of his friends and even stranger. He trawls the internet to find samples from obscure YouTube clips to personal FaceTime conversations, random Instagram accounts, and iPhone video footage of half-remembered nights out. The end results – often made on the move wherever Fred has his laptop – shift between dancefloor-inspired euphoria and yearning melancholy. He creates an experience for listeners that is unlike any other, prompting us to consider where we are at in life while enjoying moments of pleasure and life itself.

Hayden James

Hayden James has been blowing up the dance floor for several years now with his electronic pop music that hooks audiences from all over the world. The Australian award-winning producer became an instant hit after just one song: “Something About You,” released in December 2014 by Future Classic. He has since gone on to release several other hits singles that have captivated dancefloors everywhere and joined several artists on tour while also headlining his own tours, where he draws in fans with his easy-going nature and sense of humor. In a world where electronic sounds are now often mixed with pop production, Hayden continues to stand out from the crowd with his electrifying basslines and renowned collaborations.

Romy

Romy is a one-woman powerhouse of urgency and energy. The Australian artist, producer, songwriter, and DJ is currently based in Los Angeles, where she makes dark, drivign electronic music with definite pop undertones. She also fronts an all girl post-punk group, AGENDER, and has worked on past projects including Noise Addict and Macromantics. Her electronic music can leave you with a feeling of collective frenzy, an homage to her desire to make emotional music that her listeners can dance to. Romy openly celebrates her sexuality in her lyrics and is keen to lift those around her, employing only female and non-binary artists to work on the remix package for “Lifetime,” who also were her favorite artists at the moment.

The Avalanches

On their groundbreaking debut, Since I Left You, The Avalanches presented the world with a totally unique sound, crafted by meticulously combining over 3,500 vinyl samples. This approach set a precedent for dance music, inspiring a whole generation of musicians adn producers. Released in 2000 and surpassing two decades, the album achieved many accolades and remains a modern classic. Following the release and subsequent tour, The Avalanches went radio silent for 16 years before once again topping charts with their sophomore album, Wildflower. They have been more consistent with releases in recent years, including their third album release in 2020, so it is incredibly exciting that they are also touring again. They will be bringing a special DJ SET to CRSSD, so you definitely do not want to miss it!

AC Slater

Known for his signature Night Bass sound, AC Slater has developed a massive following over his career, fusing the most infectious elements of house music with the dirty basslines of UK garage and sprinkles of old-school rave synths and breaks. He has grown Night Bass from a party into a record label and global brand known for being a breeding grown for like-minded producers who are pioneering a new wave of bass-heavy dance music. He has stuck to his guns throughout the years and lets his music do the talking in an ever-evolving industry that continues to grow and expand. AC Slater complements his the underground vibes of his sets with his infectious energy, giving listeners something memorable to groove to.

With the massive talent you can find at CRSSD this weekend, it’s hard to go wrong with really any artist. There is an abundance of talent to be found and enjoyed, so make the most of the weekend and follow the vibes to where you want to dance.