Arizona's Getting a New Festival - True Music Festival

From the folks that bring you amazing productions like Camp Bisco, Lights all Night, and Counterpoint Music Festival, comes a one day show which the lineup alone will be bringing people from all around the Copper State to Scottsdale in December.

It's called True Music Festival, and the folks behind it are none other than MCP. The festival grounds are situated on a 140-acre site, Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, also known as the Major League Baseball spring training facility home for the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies. Although not much info has been released on the one day show, when the Internet first got wind that Arizona would be holding a winter festival, it was known to be focused strongly on the music. Two days ago the first round of performers were announced, and they weren't kidding when they said multi-genre, and it is a beautiful thing.

To wet your whistles MCP has officially announced:  Bassnectar, The Flaming Lips, Wiz Khalifa, Capital Cities and Lord Huron. That's right, you have the beholder of EDM, Grammy winners and ultimate showmen The Flaming Lips, hip hop game changer Wiz Khalifa, and then throw some different styles of rock in there and already there is serious potential for an incredible show. I've learned over many shows that by mixing genres that flow into one another, that have grown through influence of the other, brings a whole new dimension to the festival itself.

Wiz Khalifa (XXL Mag)

During a Flaming Lips Show (Lost In The Sound)

Being an MCP production, there is also sure to be live art installations, awesome vendors, as well as plenty of surprises. That is from their side, let's not forget ourselves, the festival goers. There is never a shortage of entertainment at these shows! These guys really care about the events they do. They have even included a section on their website called 'Be True!' giving the basics on how to insure you have a great time. It's a simple read, and very true.

Buy your tickets now before prices start going up! It's still in the Early-bird stages, so save yourself some cash! There are also VIP tickets available, more details will be released on them soon.

Visit www.truemusicfestival.com for the most up to date information. Stay connected on Twitter at @truemusicfest and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TrueMusicFestival.

Camp Bisco 12: A Festy Overview

For twelve years now, The Disco Biscuits have been leaving us with our jaws in the mud with nothing on our lips but the word, "wow". Each year gets bigger, and with it's increased popularity, Camp Bisco is a place for an eclectic group of young adults to get together and rage.

With so many years doing this gig, the folks over at MCP have put in an abundance of thought on how to run the show. Not only who's coming out to drop massive bass attacks and smooth riffs, but also to insure a safe diverse playground for all festival goers. One massive change this year was the layout of the camp grounds. Things felt much easier to get to (minus the Silent Bisco stage) and it felt as if camping itself was more organized. This is important when putting up tents for tens of thousands of people, not including RVs, car parking, vendors, stages, room for emergency vehicles, and easy trekking for all those on foot. All of the main stages (2 main stages, the label tent, and the B.I.G. Tent) were in the same area, along with a large majority of the food and craft vendors. This was a good thing because walking to this area was not a pain in the ass and it was pretty much central to everything on the map.

Now, let's get into all the festival goodies. In my opinion, there are two factors to any festival that will make it the best time. One is that the festival itself is not just a place to be, but a place to be a part of. The second factor is that the people attending the festival are there to be a part of the festival. It is literally a community popping up for close to a week. Where you live and who your neighbors can really make a difference in your weekend. In Camp Bisco's case, both these factors were met at high standards. There were plenty of activities to be a part of, both scheduled and found adventures. From the amazing art installations to the variety of workshops, there was almost always something to do... even if it wasn't planned. There are so many skilled artists that attend this festival, and many of whom share pieces of themselves at camp. Which brings up the second factor.

The people are unbelievably awesome. It felt as though everyone was happy all the time. The overall energy is leaning towards movement and party, and the people contributing the energy are from all different backgrounds. Some are there from states as far as California, and different countries as well. There's a mix of artists, spiritualists, political activists, ragers, dancers, cooks, poets, accountants, entrepreneurs... pretty much anyone you can think of. This diversity really makes up for a large part of Camp. The chances of anyone making a walk around the camp site not finding something to be a part of is... none.

The festival itself boasts a huge ferris wheel, tons of food and general vendors, hundreds of lasers, epic art installations, and great performances. A few memorable sets from the weekend included Bassnectar, Space Jesus, Schlang, Lotus, Break Science, Destroid, and the final set for the Disco Biscuits. These are just a few personal favorites, but trust the list goes on. All the night time and indoor sets included some wild visuals, including projections and dancers in wild costumes.

All in all, Camp Bisco has been an amazing experience for us here at Electric Ghost Punk. All the events that MCP puts on are very professional and 9.5-10 guaranteed good times, just leave your drama at home. Keep your eyes out for more of MCP's events as they pop up all over the country.

Photos/Videos:

Electric Ghost Punk Full Album
Day One Pictorial Walkthough
Day Two Pictorial Walkthrough
Day Three Pictorial Walkthrough

Essential Music Festival Packing List: Camp Bisco 12

Summer has officially started, and with that the music festival tours are heating up!! Here at EGP we have toured around to different festivals over the years, learning what to expect and how to 'survive' for the weekend in the rough. So we are here today to help share our knowledge on what to pack up to ensure you are comfortable, happy, and enjoying the festival to the fullest extent.

Firstly, do yourself a favor and check the website of whatever festival you are planning on going to. The next thing to keep in mind is that the following camping list is aimed at those who are looking for the essentials, aka the short list. Being that the next festival we are covering will be Camp Bisco 12, this list will include essential tips specifically for this year's Camp Bisco at Indian Lookout Country Club.

DON'T FORGET! Click around the festival's main website for very specific information for this or any event. No one will tell you the rules and what's happening there better than the event coordinators. The folks at MCP are pros, so heed their words of advice and their rules.

1. Bring your TICKET.

Sounds almost silly right? You bought your ticket and it came in the mail, don't forget it at home! It can cause an unnecessary headache for you. There are way too many times we've heard of someone forgetting their tickets at home. That's just...forgetful. It does happen though, so to help you prove you bought that ticket and sort out the damage...

2. Bring your WALLET.

Really, there are only three things you will potentially need in there. Your ID, cash, and a debit/credit card for more money if you have one. There will be bars there with booze, and they will ID you. How much money you want to bring is up to you.  We can't make you any promises of the people you connect with, but don't be surprised to trade your own beers or food for that dope collectible pin or wrap. Money is needed though, so make sure to have some.

3. Bring something to SLEEP IN.

No, not sleep in past day break, sleep inside of. We're talking a tent, or maybe a hammock. Think about how many people are staying in your tent. It's always fun to have a slumber party with your buddies, or maybe you prefer to have a small establishment of tents. Whatever you decide to do, make sure it makes sense. Not every festy will have a spot to sleep dangling in the hammock. Don't forget a blanket (or more than one, some places get cold at night), a pillow, and tarps in case of rain. Some festivals allow for car camping as well, but it usually costs extra!! For Camp Bisco 12 there are still tickets left for that, but they are limited. Get car camping tickets HERE.

Potential Dirt... Be Prepared

4. Bring CLOTHING.

Or just some. For Bisco we'll be in New York... so no public lewdness AKA nudity (read the law speak HERE). Being that it's summer and very hot, you'll want t-shirts and shorts. At least one shirt and underwear per day, and a pair of shorts for daytime and a pair of pants and a sweatshirt for night. For shoes, an old pair of sneakers or sandals with backs work wonders, and absolutely a pair of galoshes. Basically, anything you don't mind getting dirty. If you bring your nice shoes, they will get ruined. There is lots of dirt, which turns into mud if it rains. Also, bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun and keep you a little cooler. Bring a bandanna or two as well. Any of the above can be bought at the festival, but you will pay for it, sometimes a lot more than the store.

5. Bring FOOD.

Don't go crazy. A small cooler of fruit, granola bars, maybe some canned food too. Make sure anything that can melt or go bad stays in the cooler! You can bring a grill if you wanted to. You can bring a small single burner propane grill, or a larger Coleman griddle, but keep in mind keeping the grill clean, gas, wooden spatula/spoon, space for packing, keeping food fresh...it's a hassle. They sell food on premise, but it will sometimes run on the expensive side. Correlate money and food brought with your fellow camping friends to figure out how to keep your bellies full.

6. WATER.

Either factory sealed bottles or an empty container to carry. They have water stations throughout the festival where you can refill your bottle. Feeling sketched out by public water flows? Get a bottle with a filter. Do that, save money, and stay thirsty my friends!

7. ALL THAT EXTRA SH*T.
Here's some other stuff you should bring.

- Toiletries: tooth brush, tooth paste, towel, toilet paper, soap, small shampoo.
There are porta-potties and even public showers available (both inside and out). Expect lines when the music is pumping and everybody is awake.

- FLASHLIGHT
It's really dark at night.

- Trash bags
KEEP YOUR AREA CLEAN DURING AND AFTER THE FESTIVAL. You are an adult, clean up after yourself.

- Folding chair/blanket
It's nice to take a seat in front of a stage or by your campsite.

- Sun screen
Protect against cancer and burns!!

- Bug spray
Protect against pests!!

- Travel cart
If you packed all this, and everything else we didn't tell you to bring, it might be a good idea to make sure you have a cart to carry all that. You will be making long trips from parking to camping.

- Small extras: small knife, extra rope, rain jacket, sunglasses, skill toys (gloves, poi, hula hoop, etc), pen/paper, art supplies, music gear, first aid kit, lighter, ear plugs, camera, zip lock bags, small lock.
These things will help you out and are small enough to not take up too much space. As far as keeping your possessions safe (ie: cell phone, credit card, camera, etc) it's your responsibility. Lock your possessions, keep electronics in plastic bags, and keep your stuff safe.

***Most importantly above all things, BRING YOURSELF.

YOU are special in your own ways.
YOU will connect with like minded people and people that find you interesting.
YOU love having fun and getting along with people.

Open your mind a little bit. Listen to music you wouldn't normally. Check out all the vendors and the different workshops, get involved with clean up and other fun stuff like Color War. Say hi to everyone. Ask if you don't know. Being at a festival is like being part of a community that is super energetic and constantly moving. Participate with everyone and you will be rewarded a hundred times over.


OFFICIAL CAMP BISCO 12 PACKING LISTS AND INFO<---- Click the link!!

Music Festival Watch 2012: CounterPoint: Whatever Fitz - by Fitz

What's up guys, it's Fitz. We're a few days away from hitting up CounterPoint Music Festival in Atlanta, GA, this weekend and we're super excited to say the least. I've been passing the time listening to some new music and starting to plan out my weekend, because when you go to a festival with a lineup as crazy as this one you're going to need some prep-time if you want to miss as little as possible.

Click For Links To All Artists!

Thusday is a smaller day when looking at the rest of the festival, but of course CounterPoint cant let you have an easy time choosing between ten acts on two stages. Personally I plan on starting the day off with Nobody Beats The Drum at 6:15 in the evening, followed by Adventure Club at 7:15. My prediction is after that set my night is going to have alot of running cause I want to catch all of the following sets. 8:45 gives you the choice between Run Dmt's heavy hitting psychedelic dub or Beats Antique's unique mix of world music and electronica. The real choice is between Colorado's best saxophone infused electronica with Big Gigantic, or check out Up Until Now, who brings a jamband sensibility to the world of electronic music, and are playing with STS9's David Murphy. Then I'm going to try and split time wisely there, but I wouldn't doubt Dom and Jeremy trapping me over at the beat tent.

Pretty Lights

Adventure Club

Friday is when the festival really starts to come alive as 32 acts come on the four stages. The day looks like its starting with Dr. Fameus, who you may remember as the drummer from the Disco Biscuits at 2:45 in the afternoon on the Blackbeat Stage. ill probably then make my way over to new york rapper Theophilous London before chilling out with chillwave artist Washed Out. after that things seem to be getting a little tight as im trying to catch Mimosa, Tokimonsta and Atmosphere all within an hour and a half, before turning down Crystal Castles and heading over to Archnemesis, which is quickly becoming one of my most anticipated sets and a good way to start off the craziness of friday night. 7:30 youll find me at Feed Me, rocking out to his high energy electro before letting Excision drop one of the most agressive sets of the weekend, with his signiture brand of  heavy metal influenced dubstep, but be wary because youre going to need your energy to make it back over to the point stage for the king of festival dubstep, Bassnectar then I hope I have enough energy to make it to R3hab and A-trak afterwards before preparing for Saturday's non-stop party

Com Truise starts things off early in the afternoon at 12:30, but come 1:15 your going to have  to choose between jam and electronica heavyweights Zoogma, the heavy hitting deathstep duo Mantis, and trap superstar and ATL native Herobust. Whatever time you have after, enjoy, that because your going to be hard pressed to find time to stand still after 3:30 because saturdays lineup is packed. 3:45 brings you Paper Diamond followed by 12th Planet at the Beat Stage, while Toro Y Moi rocks the Counterpoint Main Stage. Emancipator will tear it up at 5 at the Blackbeat and half of ATL's own outkast, Big Boi on the Point Stage. Conspirator starts at 6, and though I'll be jamming hard for the first half hour, im going to have to move over to the Blackbeat for the Pretty Lights Music showcase (minus Elliot Lipp and Break Science) and Paul Basic at 6:15 and will probably stay there through Supervision, Michal Menert and Gramatik. though you may want to go check out such massive names as Steve Angello, Zeds Dead, Lotus, or Skrillex, i dont think i can turn down six hours of pretty lights music, because come 10:15 Pretty Lights brings counterpoint to its climax. Seeing 20,000+ people groove to such funky futuristic bass mixed with just about any style of music you can think of at summer camp and electric zoo are some of my favorite memories of the summer and I can't wait to be there again. If pretty lights isnt your scene, Porter Robinson and The M Machine are on call at the other end of the park to keep you moving until the late night sets start, but no matter what makes you move, you'll find something Saturday night. Ghostland Observatory and Laidback Luke keep things grooving on the beat stage while Alvin Risk and Zedd end the weekend with a bang of high energy electrohouse.

So that's what my music schedule is looking like two days before the festi. There's sure to so much to do on the festival grounds. I can't even begin to cover all the vendors, the forest, and the potential surprises around every corner. Make your schedule, get a good nights rest and come say hi in Georgia. You can follow us a little moar on Twitter/Facebook @EGPunkOfficial/ElectricGhostPunk!!

USEFUL COUNTERPOINT MUSIC FESTIVAL LINKS:
Main Website
Buy Tickets
Lineups/Artist Schedules