Now entering its second year, Echoes Festival returns to California’s Sequoia National Forest over Labor Day weekend (August 29th – September 1st), continuing its mission to explore the deeper ends of house, techno and leftfield dance music in a remote, open-air setting.
Set against the backdrop of the Kern River and held on a private hot springs resort, Echoes is a boutique three-day gathering set in one of California’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. It’s run by the teams behind Midnight Lovers, Sunday Sessions and Upside, all key players in LA’s underground uniting to create a community focused gathering.
The project has quickly found a footing with those seeking something significantly considered in both setting and sound, focusing on a more pensive palate of music. This year sees the return of multiple stages, with a line-up of over 40 international and local artists, as well as detailed wellness programming, shaded chill out areas and upgraded infrastructure, including cabins, RV hookups and camping options.
Headliners this year zoom into the beloved Giegling collective, inviting the founder Konstantin and one of the most prolific producers, Leafar Legov. Both artists are known for their delicate take on club music and their previous Kettenkarussell project, balacing fragile textures with minimal house and techno rhythms. It’s the kind of subtle, emotive music that comes to life on a nice sound system and particularly against the backdrop of natural beauty.
Konstantin’s record collection is full of surprises, unearthing lost gems from the 90s, as well as playing many unreleased tracks from the extended Giegling collective. Leafar Legov will bring his infamous live set, effortlessly weaving through the most intricate shades of house music. You can picture the kind of sunset or star-filled skies bubbling in the backdrop of his romantic soundtrack. He’s often playing three hour live sets which gives an indication to how much music he’s sitting on, constantly evolving the show to fit each environment.
Another prolific producer and enigmatic DJ, Afriqua joins the bill. His unique sound blurring the lines between house and funk is always a fresh addition to the line-up. Minimal don Direkt also features, alongside Ardalan, Leisan, Life On Plaets and Lubelski.
The programming leans very much toward subtlety and immersion, favouring selectors known for building evolving moods over long sets rather than headline moments. and late-night sets under star-filled skies.
For anyone drawn to outdoor festivals rooted in intimacy, aesthetic care and left-of-centre sounds, Echoes offers a strong West Coast alternative this summer. The curation is designed not to overwhelm, but to allow space for deep listening and connection to nature.
Second release tickets are on sale now starting from $306, with PayPal’s ‘Pay Later’ option available for those looking to spread the cost.
Buy tickets for Echoes Festival here.
More info on Echoes Festival
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