Antimatter Music Festival
Icon, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
Starting the Night with DJ Strawstone
The festival kicked off with me spotting DJ Strawstone setting the stage, creating an electrifying atmosphere that resonated throughout the venue. As an attendee, I had the pleasure of picking up my pre-ordered hoodie directly from DJ Strawstone, a memento that added to the excitement of the evening. He is also one of the pillars of Nice Enough Ent. who are responsible for a good majority of our local shows.
A Family Affair
My father, affectionately known as Pops, was by my side, assisting me in setting up the merchandise. It was heartwarming to see the crowd adorned in our merchandise representing various artists such as Gorilla Pimp/Louie Fontana, Shock Value, Enlightened Ones, Rogues Nation, and GQ Jesus. This visual representation of support highlighted the tight-knit community fostered by the festival.
Stellar Lineup
The festival featured an array of artists including Nikko McFadden, Shock Value, Gorilla Pimp/Louie Fontana, Aundre Myles, Macomb Marshal, Kia Hood LXS Zion, Otis Julius, Enlightened Ones, Rogues Nation, Seagull Hazard, GQ Jesus, Reviver (celebrating their EP release), GP, Dustin Warbear, Waste, By the Thousands, Iced Wrist, The Failsafe, Lilac Jam, and Red Maker. Each performance brought its unique flavor, contributing to an unforgettable night of music.
Special Spotlight: Otis Julius
One of the most anticipated performances was that of Otis Julius. Known for his unique blend of Hip Hop and Punk Rock, Otis Julius (formerly Big O) hails from Caldwell, Idaho, and has redefined music with his positive, progressive, real, and creative approach.
Journey of Otis Julius
Otis Julius's journey in music has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the course of five years, under the moniker 'Big O', he released four EPs, toured extensively across the United States and Western Canada, and even graced a major festival in Indonesia and a show in Singapore. His decision to rebrand as Otis Julius marks a new chapter in his already illustrious career.
The Fusion of Hip Hop and Punk
After the disbandment of his punk/hardcore band, Otis was on the verge of leaving music behind. However, his enduring love for Hip Hop pulled him back, leading to an experimental fusion of Hip Hop with the live energy of punk. His philosophy that music should be an experience rather than just a listening activity is evident in his high-octane live performances. Otis Julius aims to involve everyone in the audience, making each show a memorable experience.
The Motivation Behind the Music
Otis Julius creates music for three primary reasons: personal enjoyment, the opportunity to travel, and the desire to express himself artistically. His music reflects these motivations, resonating with authenticity and passion.
Conclusion
The Anti Matter Music Festival was more than just a series of performances; it was a testament to the power of music in bringing people together. The festival's success was not just in its lineup but in the shared experience it offered to both the artists and the audience. As we left the venue, the echoes of the night's music lingered, a reminder of the unforgettable experience that the Anti Matter Music Festival provided.