Headstash

Headstash on the Road: Sonic Bloom Day 1

Photo Credit: Tabor Bonde

While Thursday arrival was an optional addition to the general admission Sonic Bloom three-day pass, over half of the expected attendees arrived early to snag the limited on-site parking and call dibs on primo camping spots.

After a successful pass through security, campsites were quickly being thrown up in every direction and the main venue camping area quickly filled up around 8:00 p.m.

After staking out our spot within tent city, we ventured out into the intimate venue of Shadows Ranch, checking out all the nooks and crannies full of artistic installations and visual performers.

Photo Credit: Tabor Bonde

Once the sun went down, the art really began to shine as colored lights were creatively angled to bring out their best qualities. In particular, there was a glass-mirrored, full-sized replica of a woman relaxing in the grass. Her presence was truly captivating.

With the conclusion of the 2012 opening ceremony on the Bloom Stage, Boulder natives DYNOHUNTER kicked things off. Bringing a flavor that resembled another Boulder-based group currently making waves in the national EDM scene and beyond, this young trio of artists got the party started right.

A refreshing blend of livetronica featuring the soulful sounds of saxophonist Clark Smith had the audience grooving. Don't be surprised if you see these guys at a lot more festivals and clubs in the coming year.

After a set from dubstep producers Future Simple Project, melodic jam-rockers The Malah took the stage. Similar in sound and style to Lotus and "Interplanetary Escape Vehicle”-era STS9, the recent Colorado transplants held their own on the Main Stage and at times showed flashes of brilliance. 

Photo Credit: Tabor Bonde

The final set on the Main Stage saw a packed house, as the 1,500 or so festivalgoers who opted for the early-arrival party waited in eager anticipation before UK super-producer Bonobo took to the decks.

Although at times seeming a bit “ADD” as one attendee remarked, Mr. Green's set delivered a soothing mix of tunes that flowed between his usual chilled-out trip-hop remixes including one of fellow Sonic Bloomer, Emancipator. Much to the chagrin of a few but the glee of many, he incorporated a little moombahton.

The visuals were fantastic during Bonobo’s set and all evening for that matter. For a festival as intimate as Sonic Bloom, the production looks top-notch. 

All in all, it was an exciting and successful start to the weekend’s festivities. The sun was shining bright this morning, but a cool breeze kept things comfortable.

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Today we are looking forward to yoga, energy workshops and lots of music. Karsh Kale and Janover, ESKMO and PANTyRAiD will be holding down the Bloom Stage while Phutureprimitive, Stephan Jacobs, Minnestota and Random Rab will keep the party going well into Saturday's sunrise.

Stay tuned for more live coverage from Sonic Bloom on our homepage via Instagram and Twitter.

Photo Credit: Tabor Bonde

Photo Credit: Tabor Bonde

Photo Credit: Tabor Bonde

Photo Credit: Tabor Bonde

Photo Credit: Tabor Bonde