Desert Hearts Festival has long been defined by a feeling of belonging and solidarity on its universally celebrated dancefloor. It’s a place where self-discoveries are realized, lifelong family is found, and the boundary between artist and reveler evaporates with ease. This year, Desert Hearts has sought a return to its roots, teaming up with its longtime allies at Walter Productions to reinvigorate their foundational ethos at the beautiful Playa Ponderosa in Northern Arizona, July 4-8.
In tune with this mission, Desert Hearts has enlisted artists close to the beating heart of its 12-year journey to raise a flag of unity in its brand new location. Each selector represents a different chapter in the Desert Hearts saga, a patchwork of longtime family members, Desert Hearts Records mainstays, and those who have inspired the sonic tastes of the founding group since their humble beginnings.
In the words of Desert Hearts Co-Founder Mikey Lion, “The festival industry is in a make-or-break moment of time as it grapples with rising costs, market saturation, and a stalling economy. Independent festivals and the communities that grow around them are the heart and soul of the music world, but they are struggling to survive. While many festivals focus on recycling the same trending headliners to compete with festival giants, Desert Hearts is taking a different approach. This year our festival is focused on building up our community, showcasing label friends and family, talented local DJs, and a number of our favorite international touring artists. Desert Hearts Festival is “One Stage, One Vibe” playing nonstop House & Techno all weekend long. We’re essentially programming a 72-hour DJ set with the right artists playing the right music at the right time. Everything Desert Hearts Festival does is geared towards creating the best possible vibe, and on July 4th weekend, we’re going to throw the best party in the world.”
Returning attendees will be no stranger to the returning favorites who have soundtracked unforgettable memories on DH dancefloors past including the likes of veteran production duo Walker & Royce fresh off their sophomore album, Berlin techno veteran Anja Schneider, historic clubland favorite Doc Martin, and Los Angeles mainstay VNSSA.
Plenty of world-class international talent will also be scattered among the bill, from Soundgarden founder Nick Warren, to, Kater Blau resident Mira, Shanti Radio label head Gorje Hewek, and the unique stylising of Coco & Breezy. Additional acts to discover include the unpredictable expertise of Atish, Andhera label boss Ky William, Burning Man staple Tara Brooks, sister DJ duo Lisbona Sisters, the smooth styling sounds of Life On Planets, the hypnotic sounds of Öona Dahl, cinematic techno producer Rinzen, four to the floor favorites like Kevin Knapp and Gettoblaster, and the party-starting Ardalan – each artist arrives with their own unique story to tell at Playa Ponderosa.
Everything you need to know about Desert Hearts here