We spent 10 days on the island from September 8th to 18th, and it was an unforgettable experience. The weather was warm and sunny. The beaches were breathtaking. The music scene was vibrant, though it was occasionally lacking in quality.
The Music
We hit up some of the best clubs and beach bars on the island. But, we were not so impressed by the lineup of DJs. We danced the day and night away to sets from artists like Craig Richards, Elli Acula, Cassy and Sven Vath. The energy was incredible, and the crowds were amazing.
We attended a Defected event at Ushuaïa for a house night, which was a memorable experience. The iconic venue, with its open-air setting, provided the perfect backdrop for a silly night of dancing and revelry. The energetic crowd, dressed in stylish? outfits and radiating positive vibes, added to the vibrant atmosphere.
But Armand Van Helden’s mixing was poorly suited to the house music selection. The jarring EDM-style interruptions in the set clashed with the steady rhythm, creating a fragmented and disjointed listening experience. House music typically requires longer tracks and smoother transitions to maintain a continuous flow and build a cohesive atmosphere. The EDM-inspired breaks and drops disrupted the groove, creating a jarring contrast that detracted from the overall listening experience. The music itself was somewhat enjoyable when it wasn’t interrupted. However, the mixing was a significant flaw. It overshadowed the positive aspects of the event.
Additionally, the English girls’ fast fashion/Botox lips style was fabulously clownish, adding a delightful, louche campiness to the event. Their exaggerated makeup and outlandish outfits created a sense of playful extravagance. This perfectly complemented the VIP pretentiousness of the venue.
Fabric25 x Pyramid at Amnesia was an epic event that brought together the best of London and Ibiza’s clubbing scenes. The lineup was at times incredible, the music was pumping, and the atmosphere was electric. Craig Richards and Elli Acula, the highlights, where terrific and totally different vibes.
Craig Richards primarily played deep house and techno. He is known for his ability to blend these genres seamlessly, creating a sophisticated, cohesive and immersive listening experience. His sets often feature a mix of classic tracks and contemporary releases, showcasing his deep knowledge of electronic music.
Elli Acula’s set was a high-energy performance of techno, with pounding beats and pulsating synths. Her mixing skills need work, but her track selection is pretty cool. She has a talent for curating a playlist that is both energetic and diverse, keeping the crowd engaged. Unfortunately, the flow of the set was interrupted by abrupt transitions. The music stopped, and there was a lack of smooth mixing between tracks.
We found Ricardo Villalobos’s set a little disappointing. We hear he is great when he is spot on. But, he didn’t seem to be at his best. Sara Landry was very popular for the youngsters but we were not at all impressed. She has a cool stage presence but her music isn’t very artistic.
Sven Väth at Las Dalias: A Mixed Bag. The overall atmosphere at Las Dalias was magical. However, Sven Väth’s set left something to be desired for those seeking a purely techno experience. His eclectic style is certainly a hallmark of his performances. However, the set felt somewhat scattered. It jumped between various genres and tempos.
Playa Soleil has a stunning beachfront location. Its relaxed ambiance makes it a popular destination. It attracts those seeking a taste of Ibiza’s overpriced pretentious pseudo-bohemian spirit. The venue’s atmosphere is at times uptight and also laid-back. Its stunning views and decor create an enchanting setting for enjoying live music. It’s perfect for socializing.
The overall experience at Playa Soleil was enjoyable. Cassy’s set was great. Unfortunately, Guy Gerber’s set couldn’t captivate us. We found ourselves somewhat underwhelmed. While Gerber is supposed to be a talented DJ, his set lacked energy. It also lacked the intensity we are used to.
The Vibe
Ibiza has such a unique and special vibe. It’s a place where people of all ages come to let loose, have fun, and connect with others. We met so many amazing and beautiful people from all over the world, and we made some lifelong memories.
For example Cala Benirrás is a secluded cove on the north coast of Ibiza. It is renowned for its stunning sunsets. The enchanting tradition of sunset drumming adds to its charm. Every day except Sunday, drummers from the local community gather on the beach. They create a mesmerizing symphony of percussion.
The drumming ritual begins slowly. The sun starts its descent. It casts the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. Drummers of various backgrounds join together, their rhythms intertwining to form a harmonious tapestry of sound. The energy is infectious, and the atmosphere is filled with a sense of peace and tranquility.
But the serene ambiance of Cala Benirrás is disrupted by the influx of a massive horde of Instagram influencers. These “I was there” influencers flock to the beach to capture the perfect sunset photo. They do it for their social media feeds. They only stay for a short time before disappearing. Their presence, while not overwhelming, is absurd and can detract from the authentic atmosphere of the event.
Highlights
Here are some of our favorite highlights from the trip:
- Watching the sunset over the ocean from Sa Trinxa – Playa de Ses Salines, Cala Benirrás and Cala Comte
- Dancing all day and night long at fabric25 x Pyramid: Amnesia, Akasha – Las, Dalias, Playa Soleil
Overall, our trip to Ibiza was another absolute dream come true. We can’t wait to go back and experience it all again.