Photo: Bass Coast
MERRITT, BRITISH COLUMBIA — Bass Coast Festival is an independent international exhibition of electronic music and art. Founded in 2009 by Andrea Graham and Liz Thomson, the artist owned and operated event is a distinguished platform for Canadian artists and a springboard for innovative international talent.
The natural beauty of British Columbia is a quintessential element of the Bass Coast experience. The festival site, located outside the city of Merritt, in the picturesque Nicola Valley invites attendees to be present with nature. Bass Coast prides itself in being an inclusive gathering that brings together people from diverse backgrounds and inspires them to participate to the fullest. Soon, the sold out 9th edition of Bass Coast Festival will take place July 7-10th, 2017. Without any further ado, here are five acts you absolutely can’t miss!
1. BASSOS RANCHEROS
There’s nothing quite like dancing through the night until sunrise and finally heading off to bed after filling up on a hearty breakfast served fresh on the dance floor. Wait, what? Bassos Rancheros will make sure you get your fill of some tasty Latin beats served with a side of huevos and sunshine. If you’re still confused just make sure you catch his 5am sunrise set Saturday night and your hunger will be satisfied.
2. OAKK
Cole Edwards, known as OAKK, has been taking off in his hometown of Calgary, AB. Not only do his bass heavy sets attract a dedicated crowd every time he plays, but he’s also become an integral member of the emerging Calgary music scene. Cole stays busy, hosting a bi-weekly residency New Wave at Hifi and cofounding a new project, Gradients, which brings artists from all genres and backgrounds together in Calgary to discuss and collaborate once a month. Catch his afternoon set on Friday at 3:45pm.
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3. SHINY THINGS
Don’t get too distracted when you see Shiny Things on the dance floor. This guy is a DJ but he doesn’t only reside on the stage. Shiny Things is just as strange as you would expect. Hailing from the birthplace of all things weird and wonderful, Nelson BC, comes a sparkly human with a talent for taking you on his psychedelic journey. Its a little bit hyphy, a little bit futuristic and a whole lot of good vibes. Shiny Things follows up Oakk on Friday at 5pm.
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4. LONGWALKSHORTDOCK
If you’ve ever seen Dave King play, you know its a show not to be missed. LWSD has been a staple of the Bass Coast artist line-up for years. His sound is utterly unique. If I could describe it I would say it was almost like a computer fell in love with a hair metal band and had virtual babies. I have no idea. It’s hard to capture in words. At Bass Coast, however, Dave likes to show us exactly how much of an artist he is by pushing the boundaries of what we’ve come to expect from him. You never know what kind of set you’re going to find LWSD throwing down at Bass Coast, but you can bet it will be one you shouldn’t miss. Catch the set at 2am Friday.
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5. THE LIBRARIAN
The irony isn’t lost on me that this is a librarian who actually likes sounds. In fact, she likes them LOUD. Andrea Graham is one half of the brains behind Bass Coast and she also happens to be one of my favorite acts, no matter where I catch her playing. But watching this festival veteran throw down at her own festival can’t be topped. If you’re lucky enough to have early entry, don’t miss her playing alongside Mat the Alien on Thursday night. The sly smile she wears on her face is enough to get anyone moving. Combined with her futuristic, vibey sounds this Librarian will make sure you left your books at home. Don’t miss her Sunday night set on the main stage at 11pm.
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General Admission + VIP have sold out! Visit the official Bass Coast website (link) for more information.
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Written by: Bree Zimmerman
