Bonnaroo's Infinity Stage: Pioneering the Future of Festival Soundscapes
Introduction
Music possesses a unique power to unite individuals, transcending boundaries and fostering a profound sense of community. In the ever-evolving landscape of music festivals, innovation continues to redefine how we experience sound. This year, the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival is set to revolutionize auditory experiences with the debut of its Infinity Stage, the world's largest 360° spatial audio platform. This groundbreaking development not only promises an immersive experience for attendees but also sets a new standard for festival designs worldwide.
A New Dimension in Sound
The Infinity Stage, designed in collaboration with UK-based Polygon Productions, is poised to make its North American debut at Bonnaroo 2025. This open-air stage features an intricate setup of 90 speakers positioned in 26 unique locations, enveloping the audience in a fully immersive sound environment. Brad Parker, Bonnaroo's festival director, describes the experience as "surround sound on steroids," emphasizing that the audio, rather than visuals, drives this innovative platform. As attendees step into the dome, they are greeted with soundscapes that move fluidly around them, creating an unparalleled sensory journey.
Artist Spotlight: Belters Only
Hailing from Dublin, Ireland, Belters Only is the powerhouse duo of Bissett and Robbie G, known for their infectious house beats and uplifting melodies. Their breakout single, Make Me Feel Good featuring Jazzy, skyrocketed to No. 1 on the Irish Singles Chart and became a platinum hit in both Ireland and the UK. Blending 90s house nostalgia with modern production, their sound is deeply rooted in soulful vocals and driving basslines, reminiscent of classic influences like Robin S and Love Inc.
Since their debut, Belters Only has continued to dominate the house scene with energetic performances and fresh releases, including their rework of I Will Survive. With a growing international fanbase and a highly anticipated debut album in the works, the duo is cementing their legacy as one of the most exciting names in modern house music.
This Week in Orlando: Must-See EDM Events
Here’s what’s happening from Friday to Thursday at our city’s premier venues:
Friday, February 28, 2025
Black V Neck - Celine Orlando - 10:00 PM
Trivecta - The Vanguard - Time: To Be Announced
Bunker Afters Orlando 2.28 - Mood Orlando - Time: To Be Announced
Saturday, March 1, 2025
Manic Focus - The Abbey - Time: To Be Announced
Sunday, March 2, 2025
Victor Calderone - Elixir - Time: To Be Announced
Note: Event details are subject to change. Please check the official event pages for the most current information.
Connecting with Orlando’s EDM community is easier than you think. Start by attending smaller, local shows where you can meet other fans and discover hidden gems in the scene. Follow venues like The Beacham and The Social on social media for updates, and don’t forget to network with fellow attendees—it’s a great way to find future events and build friendships.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to explore the venue, secure the best spot near the DJ, and soak in the full experience.
Challenge: Explore smaller venues like Haven Orlando to catch intimate performances and uncover rising stars.
How to Engage with Orlando’s EDM Community
Engage with the Scene: Connecting to the Funk-Infused House Community
To fully embrace and contribute to this dynamic musical movement:
Attend Local Events: Participate in live performances and DJ sets that celebrate the fusion of funk, disco, and house music.
Explore New Music: Dive into playlists and albums that highlight this genre blend, supporting both established and emerging artists.
Join Online Communities: Engage with forums, social media groups, and local meetups dedicated to EDM enthusiasts to share experiences and discover new music.
Support Local Venues: Frequent clubs and event spaces that host nights dedicated to these genres, fostering a vibrant local music scene.
By immersing yourself in these activities, you not only enrich your personal musical journey but also contribute to the thriving community that keeps this genre alive and evolving.