GALA 2025 Review – Friends, Flags, & Farts in the Club:
GALA 2025 Review – Friends, Flags, & Farts in the Club: GALA is still a guaranteed fun weekend, even after 10 years 6 June 2025 By Caitlin Taylor GALA is a strangely comforting festival to me, as I’m sure it is to others who’ve spent a decent chunk of their lives walking distance from Peckham Rye Park. It attracts a loyal crowd – you’re going to encounter the same faces year after year, especially on a Saturday when most are off work. This was my first year not in a large group, which felt slightly alien, and I stand by that likely being the best way to enjoy yourself. Most people here are in eclectic, eccentric and impeccably dressed friend groups, but there’s also a growing movement of people finding new friends to go with. Sometimes people are hesitant about DJ-heavy, dance music festivals due to a fear of being the oldest there but users like Slaypril on TikTok are doing their best to dispel this anxiety. She started a group for those over 25 who aren’t yet ready to give up partying and recounts in one of her videos how she found a beautiful community of people feeling the same at GALA. The crowd we experienced was much more akin to one at The Cause than Ministry of Sound if that means anything to you. We walked in and were immediately met with Amaliah, a tiny figure on the enormous Main Stage. She captivated the growing crowd though, starting with a few early attendants sitting closely swaying along and finishing with a large audience almost spanning the entire length of the stage. Before we arrived, we’d been keen to spend time at the Pleasure Dome, a large geometric tent situated right at the centre of the site. The lineup here was very fun and very queer but unfortunately, after the first few hours there always seemed to be a large queue when we walked by – rightly so, but no less annoying. If we weren’t so keen to catch as much as we could we may have waited it out, and from what we heard inside it would’ve been worth it. DJ Fart in the Club was a highlight, as usual. It will never not be entertaining to see the confusion on people’s faces when one of their friends loudly announces that she’s playing. Her backdrop featured a Palestinian flag – like most festivals so far this year, GALA’s Pro-Palestine message was clear from flags on stage to scrawled messages on tents. dreamlike feminine quality. One key highlight was the Sunflower tent, offering a starkly different vibe to most of the rest of the festival with its sparkly balloons and vinyl DJs. Their lineup was announced partway through the day on a scrawled piece of A4, including two surprise sets by Floating Points and Giles Peterson – a regular name at UK festivals this year. We camped out here a few times, catching Mafalda’s B2B. It was a refreshing break in between heavier sets especially as the night went on. Avalon Emerson closed out, keeping her foot on the ball by featuring remixes of up-and-coming French darling Oklou. The crowd were captivated, a sea of grinning faces and bodies in motion. GALA 2025 was a lovely celebration of the 10-year anniversary of one of the best London festivals still going. It manages to feel fun and fresh, intimate and casual – a crowd-pleaser, and rightly so. We look forward to year eleven! You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
｡✰✯ New Single Release ✯✰ : Charla Green “Stainless”
｡✰✯ New Single Release ✯✰ : Charla Green “Stainless” Sheffield-based Drum and Bass/Jungle DJ, artist, and producer Charla Green’s latest release embarks on a tentative exploration, mirroring her deep connection with the city. 05.03.24 Words by Matilda Stokes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sof15y8xvVQ The North’s contribution to UK electronic dance music often feels footnoted, despite being the birthplace of iconic labels like WARP Records, which have fostered talents such as Aphex Twin, Flying Lotus, and Squarepusher. Green’s newest track—a fizzling, whirring, bassy, and crunchy 5-minute auditory experience—solidifies Sheffield’s status as an unsung pioneer in UK rave culture. Situated on the fringes of the Peak District, Sheffield embodies a striking amalgamation of natural landscapes and industrial heritage. Charla effortlessly fuses together elements of the natural world (utilizing vocal samples that are spliced and spacey, with lots of Echo, reminiscent of the vastness of the Peak District) with industrial sounds (the fading low pass filter on the heavy thud of the kick, the sharp crash of the snare, and the hi-hats). In a discussion with Charla Green about her track, she likened the production process to painting, with multiple overlapping layers and textures. Upon the first listen, one is immersed in a fluid, ever-changing sonic landscape where the layers seem to meld and detach from one another seamlessly. Green rightfully earns the title ‘Queen of Jungle’ and solidifies her position as one of Sheffield’s rising stars in the realm of DJs and artists. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Wub Club (@wubclub_official) You Might Also Like
｡✰New Single Review:✦❁: CLIPZ “The Touch (ft. Rose Gray)”
｡✰New Single Review:✦❁: CLIPZ “The Touch (ft. Rose Gray)” CLIPZ returns to drum and bass roots with alternative-pop artist, Rose Gray, in brand new single “The Touch”. 09.02.24 Words by Holly Turton https://youtu.be/VODOh2H1ebc After a decade mastering his craft as REDLIGHT, Hugh Pescod returns to jungle alias CLIPZ and teases a forthcoming drum and bass project for 2024. With a number of festival headlines and radios hottest records under his belt, CLIPZ begins 2024 with as much fervour as a 90s warehouse rave. Also introducing East London based singer, songwriter, and DJ, Rose Gray to the new track. Blending the most hedonistic club-pop with a sprinkle of trance and techno in what we should call, her very own genre – Rose Gray brings a new definition to alternative sound. New single “The Touch” provides a seamless blend between each of the artists own crafts, emotive vocals and slick drum and bass beats that make for an electrifying listening experience. Rose Gray’s ethereal vocals add a captivating layer of emotion to the track, marking her debut in the drum and bass genre with finesse. CLIPZ describes their seamless fusion of talents as an effortless creative process when working on the track together. Keeping the production of the song true to his roots and energy vibrant, the chemistry between the artists is evident throughout the tune. The track serves as an exciting preview of what’s to come in 2024 and leaves listeners eagerly anticipating more. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ☆*:. ｡Rose Gray ｡.:*☆ (@rosegray_) You Might Also Like
New Single Release: Nia Archives “Crowded Roomz”
New Single Release: Nia Archives “Crowded Roomz” 2023 breakout jungle star Nia Archives kicks off the new year alienated from the places that should feel like home. 19.01.24 Words by Scott Rudd https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMwzooIPbHw 2023 was a monumental year for Bradford’s junglist legend, Nia Archives. She released her EP ‘Sunrise Bang Ur Head Against Tha Wall,’ featuring the irresistibly addictive ‘Baianá’ and the emotionally charged ‘So Tell Me.’ The Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ remix of ‘Off Wiv Ya Headz’ added a banging twist to a nostalgic classic, while she closed the summer with the Reggae fusion vibes of ‘Bad Gyalz.’ Nia wrapped up the year with a global tour, spreading the revitalising energy of the junglist revival, much needed in our conflicted world. Her accomplishments didn’t go unnoticed by the industry; she earned a nomination for the Rising Star Award at the Brit Awards, though she ultimately lost to the R&B trio FLO. Nevertheless, it was an outstanding year and a well-deserved showcase of her talent. However, the beginning of 2024 is marked by feelings of alienation and detachment rather than joy and celebration for Nia Archives. ‘Crowded Roomz’ continues to blend jungle and neo-soul, a fusion Archives has aptly termed a “future classic.” The song opens with the poignant lyrics, “I feel so lonely, especially in crowded rooms; it’s a facade, my persona is a costume.” This perspective is uncanny for a genre that is typically, though not always, detached from negative emotions. Yet, dropping a realist dance tune at a time when we can openly discuss our feelings and emotions without stigma seems fitting. Why not create a pulsating dance track for those who feel isolated in such scenarios? It’s probably far more common than one might think. Nia Archives, in my view, can do no wrong when it comes to music. She is genuinely a remarkable DJ, producer, and songwriter who has carved her own path in the crowded landscape of the UK dance revival. On a more intriguing note, this feels like the beginning of a narrative that could hopefully be part of a full-length project in the near future. Come on, Nia, the people are ready for it! View this post on Instagram A post shared by nia archives (@archives.nia) You Might Also Like
OCTOBER FLASHBACK – Paper Dragon ‘Lost In a Moment’ ft. Jasmine Knight
OCTOBER FLASHBACK – Paper Dragon ‘Lost In a Moment’ ft. Jasmine Knight 06.11.23 Words by Ethan Riley What happens when the genius minds of Paper Dragon combine forces with the powerhouse vocals of Jasmine Knight? We truly get Lost In A Moment https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssfcHuEjhbo In the ever-evolving world of electronic music, a spectacular collaboration has emerged to captivate the hearts and minds of DnB aficionados. At a time when we were all yearning for a true auditory journey came the product of a true dynamic duo; the revolutionary musical collective Paper Dragon teamed up with the otherworldly talented Jasmine Knight to bring us Lost In A Moment. This track transports listeners to a realm of euphoria, where time stands still, and the music becomes a cosmic vessel for your soul. Imagine you’re standing at the edge of a dense, mysterious jungle, the air thick with anticipation. The distant rumble of a bassline is like a call, beckoning you into the heart of the musical wilderness. As you venture deeper into the track, a vibrant soundscape unfolds, filling you with hypnotic rhythms and ethereal melodies that gradually envelop you. The jungle becomes your playground, and you are truly Lost In A Moment. After taking a short hiatus, Paper Dragon set out to take it back to the old school by dedicating 2023 to a collection of jungle and breaks inspired music with their own special edge. Tracks like Holding On and Strawberries excited, enthralled and entranced us – and the collective show no signs of slowing down any time soon. Following the release of their epic EP Amplified Nostalgia, Pt. 1 earlier this year, Paper Dragon once again treat us to a true DnB delight with Lost In A Moment, spotlighting the otherworldly vocals of Jasmine Knight – an amazingly talented South London based singer/songwriter who has collaborated with some of the top dogs in the dance music scene. Her latest collaboration with Paper Dragon is a three-and-a-half minute blessing to the ears. The collective’s signature production skills blend seamlessly with Jasmine Knight’s ethereal vocals, resulting in an auditory experience that transcends time and space. The combination of their talents is nothing short of alchemical magic, creating a synergy that resonates with your very core. Jasmine Knight puts it best when she says on Instagram, “…you realise how beautiful life can be when you truly get lost in the moment, let go and surrender and enjoy your life as it is”. As an artist, she writes from a vulnerable place, and we feel it. Authenticity is of utmost important, and Jasmine Knight doesn’t shy away from letting us experience that rawness with her, evident in the way she expresses each word. Lost In A Moment bridges a gap, appealing to those who have grown up with classic DnB beats and newcomers eager to explore the genre’s rich history. It’s a sonic bridge between the past and the future of electronic music. The track’s fusion of nostalgia with contemporary production techniques creates a timeless experience that resonates with both seasoned ravers and fresh-faced enthusiasts. The DnB community has always been about unity, and Lost In A Moment embodies this spirit. It’s a track that unites people from all walks of life, regardless of their differences. The dance floor becomes a melting pot of individuals who have all succumbed to the enchantment of the music. Lost In A Moment is a testament to the power of music to bring people together in euphoria, transcending the barriers that often divide us. Get ready to lose yourself and find something greater in the captivating journey of Paper Dragon and Jasmine Knight’s masterpiece. You Might Also Like
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – PinkPantheress ‘Mosquito’
NEW SINGLE RELEASE – PinkPantheress ‘Mosquito’ 02.10.23 Words by Scott Rudd Glitz and glamour can only keep the London pop queen so happy in the lead single for her upcoming debut studio album To say that PinkPantheress has had a successful 2023 would be an understatement. She’s collaborated with the likes of Troy Sivan, Destroy Lonely, Skrillex, Trippie Redd, and Ice Spice, with whom she released her most successful song to date, “Boy’s A Liar Pt.2,” which not only peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 but also earned her her first platinum record in both the UK and America. While these collaborations have propelled her to stratospheric levels of success, she has remained true to her original sound, refusing to compromise for the sake of rapid success. This dedication to her unique style is evident in her latest single, “Mosquito.” Produced by Pantheress herself, alongside Mura Masa, who was also behind “Boy’s A Liar,” and heavyweight in the music world, Greg Kurstin, known for his work with artists like Lily Allen, Adele, Sia, and most recently Gorillaz. Even with these highly influential producers, the single maintains the trademark PinkPantheress sound, albeit slightly polished sonically. Accompanied by a music video featuring actresses Charithra Chandran, India Amarteifio, and Tara Shahidi, alongside Pantheress herself, shopping in for high-end fashion such as Valentino and Fendi. The song is a lyrically introspective piece about her relationship with wealth and materialism. It’s sung over a neatly crafted 90s drum and bass beat with R&B undertones, retaining all the nostalgic qualities that made her debut mixtape, “To Hell With It” (Parlophone), the critical success it was. Lyrically, the track implicitly uses money as a double entendre for love and obsession, with Pantheress singing on the refrain, “On a Monday, can I see you?, Can I check my numbers? ‘Cause I want to, I know it’s annoying how much I do, Spending you the day that I want, the day that I want, Another day then, maybe Tuesday?” The themes of obsession and wealth both carry a negative connotation with love, but the song employs this familiar and sometimes overt gimmick with elegance and just enough ambiguity that it doesn’t become grating. PinkPantheress’ bedroom pop sound appears to be consistently improving in quality with each new release, and considering her initial success with songs like “Pain” and “Just For Me,” which became overnight hits thanks to TikTok, it’s remarkable to see that she has transcended the TikTok artist label that many people might have initially associated her with. PinkPantheress seems poised to maintain her prominence within the music scene, and her debut album is highly anticipated, likely to solidify her position even further You Might Also Like Uncategorised
NEW SINGLE RELEASE: “High Grade” – Tomike
NEW SINGLE RELEASE: – Tomike ‘High Grade’ Tomike Unleashes Her Eclectic Sound with “High Grade”: A Fusion of Neo-Soul and Liquid Drum and Bass Words by Danni Gibbs 09.06.23 Alternative neo-soul singer, Tomike, has just dropped her new Liquid Drum and Bass track which incorporates a fusion of electronic dance and layered vocals to create a high energy musical composition which is “High Grade”. This upbeat edition to her sound invites an element of groove into her already heavily R&B and Soul based discography and we at The New Age Magazine are here for it. “High Grade” incorporates smooth, melodic elements as well as energetic beats of drum and bass. The track starts with a clean electronic beat that creates an immersive and inviting atmosphere before progressing into a crisp and upbeat backing track with a deep background bassline. The melodic elements of the track are enhanced by Tomike’s soulful vocals, gentle synth lines and fast tempoed beats. After releasing her first track “You Don’t Really Rate Me” she has gone on to play for audiences at Liverpool SoundCity 2021 and Primavera Sound Festival Barcelona 2022 blessing audiences with her unique sound and approach to music. Inspired by Sade and Erykah Badu and heavily influenced by Jazz, Tomike is making a name for herself within new wave music and we encourage you to listen to her new track and other new releases in our JUNE IN MUSIC Playlist on Spotify!