Camp Bisco XI: Paus3 - Looking Back at the Biggest Year Yet

There's something about turning around to 15,000 people with their hands in the air.

It's already a month later, and I still wake up longing for the intense summer heat to hit my tent and motivate me to get up after a few hours of sleep to walk through the dust, get some grub, water, and have another full day of Camp Bisco XI.

Crowd Jumping to Zed's Dead

Camp Bisco 11. The largest and most organized Camp Bisco to date, brought to you by MCP Presents. It wasn't even two years ago that there were under 10,000 people in attendance. This years' numbers sore well over 20,000. Between everyone working the event, vendors, media, and all of the guests, the camp grounds were alive for every moment (waking or not) we were there. This was my first major music festival (read about the first small one HERE [disclaimer/spoiler the event gets broken up]) and it was way bigger and more intense than I could have ever imagined it to be. I could talk about it for days on end, but for the sake of your attention spans, I'll break it all down in three sections. The Camp/The People/The Music.

THE CAMP:

Last year the physical coming into Camp Bisco was a long experience for most. Waiting for hours in a line of cars blocking countless resident's driveways, some people relieving themselves on said lawns, garbage all over, noise levels... the kind folk who live in Mariaville were not too happy with all the neo-hippies coming into their territory and turning it upside down. This year things ran much differently thanks to the joining of hands with MCP Presents and the town. The line still existed, but the amount of cars in it were toned down a lot. They had shuttles running back and forth from the ski lodge to allow more space for parking off-site and more camping on-site.

Straight Chillin

Making Dogs!

There were so many tents everywhere! The grounds allowed for 20 different camping spots. The majority of which were the open fields, a couple were in wooded areas, VIP had their own sections as well, and there were the RV camping spot as well. Since you are not allowed to bring vehicles onto the grounds to get around, walking was the mode of transportation for most. To be able to walk to entire circumference of the camp grounds would take you close to an hour, that's how enormous it is!

2D Cut Outs

Power Crystals

One of my favorite parts about camp was how interactive it was. No matter where you headed to, there was always something to check out. Many of the sights to see were artistic installations. For example, in the middle on the field past the audio tent for the main stages, there was a garden of 2D statues featuring some very recognizable characters and imagery. A short walk away were a series of power crystals; Tall reflective pyramids that pointed up into the sky, these power crystals also created a circumference around the crowd at the main stage, focusing energy together. My favorite piece of art was the light tunnel. At night this walk was like walking through a tunnel of Christmas lights, but my favorite part was it's interactiveness. This was an area that clever people could come and charge cell phones or camera batteries. Beautiful, relative and a resource, those lights were good to many people.

Certain Carpoolers Won Free VIP Upgrades!

RV Art

Of course there were showers, fresh drinking water in huge tanks, mobile bathrooms, and the VIP's had it nicest with these amenities. You should get those tickets early, or get active in your favorite website and win tickets, but VIP means close access, star treatment, and being next to the stars. Of course there's the perks (which are totally worth it) but just being able to be at Camp Bisco is rewarding in of itself, a big thanks to that comes from the people that attend the event.

THE PEOPLE:

So I have done a little research [#HeadstashHistoryLesson], trying to see what the past Camps were like. Dating as latest as three festivals ago, there were [only] ten thousand people in attendance. Three years later and it's just about triple that number. The thing I find most interesting about this exponential increase, even just from Camp Bisco I - II, is that with the more extreme jumps in numbers meant many more diverse people, and from more places. Some will argue that they don't want the dubheads and bros to come in and "ruin" the vibes, but I found that the mix of people made for an awesome time, one where everyone was vibing to everything. I saw very few aggravated people trying to start fights or just being douche-bags, most people were having the times of their lives.

Henna!

While walking around the camp sites you could meet people from anywhere, it's as easy as walking up and saying hi, and you may make friends for life. While partying in the dance tents with thousands of other people brings such energy to everyone, seldom are people sitting when the treble is high and the bass is dropping hard and nasty beats fill the air. Or after the music stopped playing and you find yourself searching for more, and in the RV sections DJs are set up and 45-60 people are dancing and still having a great time until all hours of the morning. And there is a time to chill to the music and enjoy a conversation, people all over are just really friendly. Like at Silent Disco, or in the shade, maybe on the line to get some tasty treats. And there were the people who at first were not as open to meeting someone new, but once the smile comes out it's always a pleasure. Whether people's love was for Skrillex or the long time and new fans of The Disco Biscuits, everyone seemed to get along very well. There were many people I met that were so down to earth and shared a lot of ideas and interested with each other, it was so great to be able to make those connections.

Thanks to all the amazing people I met, I have new appreciations for wide brimmed fitted hats (Grassroots California), a new appreciation for Monster Java, pins, crystal wrapping, as well as several DJs and producers I have never heard of before Camp Bisco, and now can't stop raving about them.

THE MUSIC:

[lol] Where to begin... first word(s) that comes to mind is non-stop. As mentioned before, there is always music somewhere. There are of course the stages, which are easy to walk to when going from one to the next. There were two main stages next to one another, a smaller label tent down the dusty road from there, and then through a small walkway with a circle and wooded ceiling was the main dance tent, aka the B.I.G. tent. In between and across the fields from this line of musical talent was the Showcase/Silent Bisco stage. Here were the lesser known artists whose skills on their instruments were worthy of being and lucky to be performing at an event such as Camp Bisco.

Jake Dukes at Silent Bisco

Zed's Dead

Being this was my first legitimate festival, I was more than excited to be able to run through the pit (small area in front of stage between performers and VIP. The first set I got to shoot photos there was for Zed's Dead. As soon as they dropped their first song, the crowd was on their toes. The energy flowing through all the people could be felt as it rippled through the mass of bodies. All I kept thinking was, "finally", as my memory was brought back to December sitting on Facebook talking to Jake Dukes about wanting to check out this festival in NY, and then he showed me a video and each time the crowd rose my heart fell and shiver went through my entire body. I had to be there... and there I was. The set was amazing, and it felt like the hour set rushed right on by. This was the beginning of my musical journey on Thursday. Later in the day included Crystal Castles, Skrillex, and The Disco Biscuits.

Skrillex Set

Disco Biscuits Nighttime Set

Visuals in the Label Tent

The Biscuits first set was amazing. I have never before seen them live, so to be entertained by them in their house was pretty incredible. From the lights and the music, listening to them play was a great way to watch the crowd come together. Their music and love of the fans is what started this festival, and it is apparent why it's been so successful. Throughout the weekend, The Biscuits would play six sets in total, both during the day time and at night. For the ones I went to, I fell more in love with their music. It is good to step away from the dubstep and harder genres... until you get to the dance tents.

That's Mr. Z! Zodd

Laser, Lights and Energy! B.I.G. Tent was always popping.

Waiting....

First night I also caught Kill The Noise, Zedd, and Porter Robinson. Throughout the weekend we caught Killabits, Break Science, Big Boi, Lotus, Fikus, Jake Dukes and Mad Panda, Mimosa, Alpha Data, Minnesota, Codes, Holy Fuck, Bassnectar, Dillon Francis, A-trak, and Gramatik. The sets always blew me away... Zedd and Minnesota's sets were two that will always stick out in my memory. Part of it were their amazing performances mixed together with their stage presence and visuals, and the other part were their audience. To be able to feel that surge of energy while listening to some of the most amazing productions you've heard up close and share that with thousands of other people is just incredible.

CONCLUSIONS:

After attending the rave scene for so many months, my views on the scene have been diluted in the empty warehouses' dirty floors. The people have always been awesome (mostly) but that greater feeling of togetherness is hard to come by. Going to Camp Bisco and experiencing the emotion of "PLURR" ten fold than I've ever felt it has brought my faith back into the community. Leaving Bisco was the last thing I wanted to do. Not knowing what time it was, to always having something to do and someone to talk to... just living with everyone, for that I have to say "Thank You!" to The Disco Biscuits and everyone that made this festival happen.

See You Around!!! <3 WishPaus3

 PS: I could talk for days about Camp Bisco XI, but now I want to hear your stories! Hit me up in the comments, electricghostpunk@gmail.com, or on FACEbook.

PHOTOS/VIDEO:

EGPunk Official:
Photos - SET (everyday!) // SOLEY SET
Video - Pictorical Walkthrough 1 // 2 // 3 // 4
Video - Triple Threat Productions - HERE

vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv

OFFICIAL Camp Bisco XI: DAY1//DAY2//DAY3 // Dave Vann Highlights

 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Atothe Photography: SET
Calder Wilson: DAY1//DAY2//DAY3
ZT Photo: SET 
Megalo Mandee Photography: ARTIST SET//FESTIVAL SET
EDMlounge.com: SET
Chris Brooks: SET
Jas Davis Media: VIDEO

Camp Bisco 11: Day 1 Pictorial Walkthrough

When I first began taking photos with Reptar Photography back in December, I never thought I would be shooting an event like Camp Bisco. Well, this site has grown a lot since then, and Bisco did indeed happen in all of it's glory. These Pictorial Walkthroughs serve not only to show you all of my shots from a set, but also to show my progression as a photographer, as well as tell a story of who I met, what I saw... I hope you enjoy!

What To Bring to Camp Bisco XI 2012

So, now that Bisco is a few days away, I am getting myself ready to go on this epic adventure. I've been camping before, but nothing like this. Camp Bisco has become so enormous that it cannot be contained. There are some essentials that you should bring with you to the campgrounds. One thing to remember! You can do this camping experience on the bear minimal, however, you can make your stay a little more comfortable by being prepared. After all, there will be plenty of folk there to give you a hand I'm sure. Get your packing list together!!

• Towel
• Backpack
• Clean Clothing (water proof stuff for sure as well!)
• Sneakers (rain/mud boots)
• Tent
• Sleeping Bag/Blanket/Pillow
• Flashlight
• Reusabel Water Bottle (I got a Nalgene, also check out Brita)
• Hygiene Supplies (DEODORANT)
• Money
• Pen/Paper 
• Balloon/Flag (something to help identify your tent)

Storm Passing By: Dan Dagler

Honestly, if you take that stuff, you could go on adventure after adventure, meeting tons of new people and really getting a feel for what's happening all around you. I feel like the more you surround yourself with stuff, you might have a comfort zone, but you'll also be tying yourself down. Now, in my opinion that's the bear minimum. I'd take a little more with me just to be safe (and not smelly).

• Air mattress (don't forget your pump!)
• Camping chairs
• Tarp/canopy tent
• string/ scissors
• first aid kit (neosporin, bandages, peroxide)
• trash bags
• Food (I'd do canned and non perishables. There will be affordable food sold as well)
• Small propane grill (camping area only)
• Utensils
• Camera
• Ear plugs
• Sun Screen/Bug Spray
• Hat/Umbrella
• Extra toilet paper
• Any card games, toys (frisbee, nerf, etc)
• Dance and glow toys (hoola hoops, gloves, poi) <- Electrik Graffiti will be vending, so if you want to pick up a pair of gloves (or anything furry!), they got you!

WHAT THE FESTIVAL WILL HAVE: AMENITIES

• Showers 
• Drinking Water
• Wash Stations
• Portable Toilets & Indoor Toilettes
• Food & Crafts Vendors
• Pay Phones
• ATMs
• Beer will be available to purchase in case form on site.

RESTRICTIONS 

• NO Glass Containers of any kind!!!
• NO Weapons of any kind
• NO Fireworks
• NO Illegal Substances
• NO Open Fires
• NO Vending without permit allowed
• NO Bicycles scooters or go carts, ATVs
• NO Glass Containers or jars!!!
• NO Professional Photo or Video Equipment
• NO Pets, leave your pets at home
• NO Coolers allowed in Concert Area
• NO Box Trucks
• NO KEGS or excessive cases of beer!
• NO Glass Containers!!!

Here's an idea of what it will look like:

Dear Readers and Camp Bisco Followers

It's almost here! Just about a month away now! Camp Bisco will be my first "official" festival ever, so I'm going to update ya'll on how I'm preparing, what we're going to do while there, and of course have awesome video and photos for you! But before we get into final month madness, a message from Frank Potter, the owner of Indian Lookout Country Club, your Camp Bisco destination.

Just...WOW!

XXXXXXXXXXX

To our Camp Bisco Friends,

We at ILCC have grown to love hosting all of Camp Bisco's fans, after all these years. We have found all of you to be cooperative in many ways and passionate about the music that draws you here each Summer.

As the weather continues to get nicer, up here in Mariaville, we know that many of you are already making your plans to join us again. This year I'm asking all of you for a little help with my neighbors. I ask that you show them the same respect you've shown us, by not blocking their driveways, not going to the bathroom on their lawns and not throwing your trash on their property. Remember, they help to make Camp Bisco possible- please help us to keep the right to assemble year after year possible.

Thank you for your cooperation and help in respecting the neighbors and property, while you are here at Camp Bisco.

Frank Potter
Owner, ILCC

XXXXXXXXXXX

Mr. Potter is a straight shooter folks, and after opening his land this many years and moving forward, take heed to his word. This will be a wonderful event, and you can help make it great for everyone. Even if they are within a few miles radius! There will be tons of traffic too, which is why they are opening gates earlier! Here's what they posted on the site:

"Beginning at 9pm on Wednesday, July 11, Camp Bisco will officially open the gates to ILCC. Come in, pick your camping spot, get set up and ready for the festivities on Thursday. In addition to opening the gates a day early, we are introducing a few other things to help expedite the entry process, including adding a new gate and doubling our search and ticket lines. Plan on arriving as early as possible to get the best camping spot and ensure you are set up in time to catch all the music! See you in July!"

I can't wait to see this all go down, it's so huge!! With lots more to come, this is the road to Bisco!!

Interview: Camp Bisco 11 2012

As the summer time approaches, there is more and more talk of Camp Bisco (July 12-14). I've spoken to so many people that are going for their first times to Bisco this year, and for many, it will be their first festival ever. This year is going to be bigger than any year before, and I was able to get a closer look into what's in store for Bisco now and moving forward! Festival Coordinator Brett Keber of MCP Presents answered some questions I had about Camp Bisco:

Snoop-a-loop!!

[Paus3] Was Camp Bisco created with the intention of being the huge music festival it is today, when it was first started back in 1999?

[Brett Keber] I think the goal of anyone's life or project should be growth. If you always aim to be better than you were the day before incredible things can happen. Camp Bisco, 11 years later, is a perfect example of that. 

[P] How is this year going to be different from previous Camps?

[BK] We are upping the ante with all aspects of the event. Our site infrastructure, stage production, art installations, level of talent and our production skills are all being raised to the next level. We are also shifting a few things around to make the experience more enjoyable for all attendees, including adding an extra entrance to the event and different camping options all with the goal of increased safety and faster entry into the festival.  Overall this will be the best Camp Bisco yet, which we say and hold true to each year. 

Project SF at Camp Bisco 9 (2010)

Project SF at Camp Bisco 9 (2010)

Project SF: See more Super Friends' Pictures

[P] There are hundreds of performing artists throughout the weekend, but is all the entertainment music? What are some events that take place outside of dancing?

[BK] First and foremost, our yearly "Color Wars" have become a staple of Camp Bisco and something that many patrons look forward to year in and year out. Shpongle is bring his "Masquerade Party" Production to the festival, for which we plan on getting as many participants as possible dressed up in masquerade costumes to incorporate some themed elements through out the site. In addition, CB11 will have numerous art displays for the patrons to enjoy, live painting and a few more surprises up our sleeves. 

[P] How many stages are set up and how are they different from each other?

[BK] There are 2 side by side main stages, which allows us to transition between artists seamlessly and keep the music going all day and night. Then the two dance tents, one will have some of the best production in the country and the other equipped with stereo sound throughout the tent providing completely different experiences between the two. We do our best to match the music to fit the environment to provide an overall world class experience for every type of music and music fan.

Hill Stage

Main Stage

[P] With all the cars and amount of people coming in it seems like you would get to meet a lot of new friends. 

[BK] That is one of the greatest things about Camp Bisco! Camping and dancing next to strangers has a funny way of forming long lasting friendships in one weekend. We have heard stories about groups of friends and even marriages that started at Camp. This element is one of the most fun components of the event.

[P] We've seen artists such as Snoop Dogg and Wiz Kalifa at previous Camps. Can we look forward to other "obscure" electronic sets?

[BK] Obscure is a word we hold as a badge of honor. We do our best to book talent that isn't being booked everywhere else, and that not everyone is listening to. We try to stay ahead of the curve, and if you look back at our past lineups you will see names that were there years ago that are just blowing up now. Bassnectar at Camp 6 is a perfect example. He was barely known at the time and played our "Local Stage" in front of about 700 people. Porter Robinson played our Silent Disco last year and look at him now. I can say this, if you see a name on our lineup that you don't know... you should check them out. They are there for a reason! 

[P] There were rumors of the band breaking up. If this did happen, would there still be a Camp Bisco?

[BK] Rumors and opinions are everywhere and neither carry much weight.  None of us plan on stopping this upward path of success.

[P] Are there any potential surprises in store for the festival goers?

[BK] You will just have to come and see.

 XXXX

All this makes me even more excited for this year's event! If you haven't done so yet, go and grab your tickets before they all sell out!

CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS. [duh]

 Special thanks to Caren West PR and MCP Presents for making this interview a possibility!