Electronic music plays a vital role in the lives of Beirut’s residents, as Lebanese people are known to work hard during the weekdays and play harder during the weekend. With the emergence of techno in Beirut, the urge to have a grungy and raw experience became more popular than the high tables and champagne bottle popping. Forget about big stages with DJs 30 feet away from the crowd, it’s now about the intimate vibes, good music and sweat (if this article found its way to you, then you probably know what i’m talking about). Venues like The Grand Factory were a game changer to how people perceive and experience music.
The Grand Factory is closing its doors for the season. This time, they’re collaborating with one of the entities that thrives to push the scene forward: Red Bull Music. They’re bringing back Souq Festival on May 12, all the way from Paris, after its huge success last year in Beirut. Headlining the festival will be a staple of the downtempo sound, Viken Arman, in collaboration with the Lebanese Philharmonic Orchestra, who will be debuting a special re-interpretation of Viken’s tracks in the main room, which will be turned into a small after movie. The magic doesn’t end here. Setting the tone for him will be the Lebanese DJ Vanclod, and none other than the man behind The Grand Factory who has been known for constantly pushing of the electronic music scene in Beirut - Jade. The magic does not end here, as the back room will be trembling to the beats of the French duo that is infatuated with Arabic music, Acid Arab. Joining them behind the decks will be the Lebanese first lady of techno Rita, joined by Tala, Wass and Zed.
The event will be broadcasted courtesy of Clubbing TV to celebrate the launch of the channel in the Middle East.
For more info check the event page here.
For reservations call 03703371.
