DEMF 2008 was without a doubt, one of the music highlights of my life. Only a city such as Detroit can host an inexpensive, diverse festival where it really is about the music. There’s a certain sound to the motor city you don’t find anywhere else. You may have heard Kevin Saunderson spin in Berlin or NYC, but you ain’t heard nothing until you witness the man lay it down in Detroit.
Thank the lord for the internet. The Paxahua website hosts an audio archive of DEMF 2006-2008. In 2008, DJs at the Beatport tent – my favorite! – jacked the mixer up too high, so Paxahua did not release those distorted recordings. However, I uploaded my most memorable sets.
Terrence Parker and Stacey Pullen spun back to back on Day 1 at the Real Detroit Stage, a dark, smokey cave which was literally underground. Terrence Parker set the scene, using a telephone as a headphone, and was generous with the powerful house vocals. Stacey Pullen was pure hometown techno. No one has ever looked happier throwing down records.
Mp3: Terrence Parker @ Real Detroit Stage DEMF 5.24.08
Mp3: Stacey Pullen @ Real Detroit Stage DEMF 5.24.08
On Day 2, Mark Farina performed at the Main Stage, a concrete amphitheater basking in sunlight. I have seen Mark Farina spin more than any other DJ, and a second listen confirms this is my favorite set of his. Turn it up and pretend you are dancing outside with hundreds of your closest friends.
Mp3: Mark Farina @ Main Stage DEMF 5.25.08
You just have to be there. Whether you’re a virgin or veteran, make the pilgrimage in 2010 – the Ten Year Anniversary – for which Carl Craig has been announced as Creative Director.
