Time to dust off your dancing shoes, TranceFamily! January is over, and February starts with Liberation London at Fabric, celebrating its 25th year.
This day event was stacked full of amazing artists, from the likes of Giuseppe Ottaviani, John O’Callaghan, Trance Wax, Stoneface & Terminal, Fred Baker, and Heart & Hawk, to name a few.
Upon entry, a projector beams the club’s name as you descend down the staircase to the dance floor. A mezzanine balcony (along with toilets and a bar) is here, giving a great view over the main room. Head further downstairs and the raver is presented with the main bar, the sound booth, Room 1, as well as access to both Rooms 2 and (upstairs) 3.
Photo Credit: Adam Kehoe
Sadly I missed Nick van Kukaj, Antithet and Trance Wax, but I was able to catch Giuseppe Ottaviani in Room 1. From the first beat, he showcased why he is considered a grand maestro of trance. The energy inside Fabric was bouncing as Ottaviani seamlessly blended his cutting-edge tracks with his latest style, creating an atmosphere that felt forward-thinking and energetic.
Photo Credit: Adam Kehoe
As the night progressed, the anticipation for John O’Callaghan’s debut of brand-new music reached a fever pitch. The Irish trance icon did not disappoint, treating the audience to set crammed full of ID’s that even I could not keep up with.
Photo Credit: Adam Kehoe
Fan favourites, such as Riverside, Power of Now and Lostly’s Saudade, were thrown in, peak uplifting trance to keep the crowd going strong. O’Callaghan’s ability to craft a set that weaves together emotion and intensity was on full display, and the unreleased tracks showcased his evolution as an artist.
Photo Credit: Adam Kehoe
Closing the night was the brilliant Sam Mitcham, who delivered an outstanding closing set to end the event. I was expecting the harder styles of trance which generally isn’t my jam, but no, Sam smashed out some unreal tunes, many I hadn’t heard before. A true masterclass in reading the room, he skillfully curated a journey that allowed the audience to copulate from the trance-induced euphoria.
Photo Credit: Adam Kehoe
The production quality at Fabric, combined with the lighting, visuals, and sound system all contributed to the overall atmosphere, elevating the event to a level of sonic bliss rarely experienced. A perfect way to kick off 2024!
We look forward to next year’s 10th anniversary, but until then, thanks to all the Liberation London team for putting on a brilliant show, to all the DJs, friends, and you, the TranceFamily for reading this article. See you on the dancefloor!
Photo Credit: Adam Kehoe