MP3 TAKES: ARC Music Festival is Setting High Standards For Chicago

Introducing MP3 TAKES, our event review series where we dive deep into the exhilarating world of music festivals and live performances. In an era teeming with music events worldwide, our aim is to help you navigate through the noise and uncover the most captivating experiences. Join us on this adventure to highlight the backstage stories, memorable moments, and unique elements that make each event one-of-a-kind.

ARC Music Festival returned to the heart of Chicago this past weekend to host thousands of music lovers from across the globe, and we were lucky enough to experience the magic ourselves this year.

This was our first year attending ARC Music Festival and its clear as to why it has been has been getting so much attention since its initial launch in 2021.

From the top tier lineup curation to the perfectly executed stage designs and beyond, we’re here to give you a peak inside of what might have been one of the best events of the summer. Dive into everything that contributed to the success of ARC Music Festival 2024 below!

1. Production was on point

Stage curation is a key factor in making or breaking an event, and ARC did not play around when it came to production this year.

Each stage was carefully crafted and offered their own unique energy, which made ARC all the more interesting to explore. The Expansions stage brought us to a different world, boasting a unique and nature focused design that complimented the array of trees surrounding it. This stage was nestled in the shade on the edge of the festival grounds which offered attendees a chance to sit in the grass for a more laid back experience.

It definitely didn’t feel like we were in the middle of Chicago while at Expansions, but somewhere lost deep in the forest.

Then, there’s the Elrow Art stage — of course it’s no surprise that Elrow was magical. Anybody who’s experienced Elrow’s production knows that they’re in for a treat, and this time was no different.

Elrow stayed true to its playful and bright aesthetic with performers lurking the crowd, confetti constantly raining down, and bright lights accenting the stage. It was also a plus that this stage was under a tent which helped attendees escape from the sun during the day. 

Main stage, also known as The Grid, brought an industrial feel to the festival which was perfect for the vibe of ARC. The visual screens were accompanied by stacks of different colored shipping containers that perfectly complemented the view of Chicago’s skyline. The Grid was prepared with full production including perfectly scheduled pyro during the headliners sets.

2. Next level performances

ARC has proved itself to be a top tier event for people who want to experience multiple forms of both modern and classic house and techno music.

This year’s lineup showcased extremely unique sets that would attract any die hard house and techno fan. ARC specifically knew what they were doing when it came to B2B sets. The weekend showcased iconic collaborative sets from legends such as Green Velvet b2b Carl Cox, and one of our favorite sets from the weekend, Golfos (Pawsa b2b Dennis Cruz). 

It was hard to miss out on Gorgon City but Golfos made it hard to exit the Expansions stage. This set felt like we were being transported to another world as the pair brought fans on a journey through minimal house as the sun was setting on Saturday night.

Despite the conflict with one of the biggest names on the lineup they had the stage packed with people dancing throughout the whole set, and especially during the rinse of Pawsa’s iconic track ‘Too Cool To Be Careless.

3. Art installations complimented the festival 

Throughout the festival there were art installations that made the walk (or run) to each stage an enjoyable journey.

ARC had a clear and well thought out vision for the art that they brought in, with all of the installations complementing one another with their mirror-like material. As we maneuvered from Expansions to The Grid we were able to walk under a pathway of mirror arches that lit up with neon lights after the sun went down.

Another piece in particular that stood out was the hangout area at the back of the main stage. This massive structure was raised up by a large platform that allowed for guests to take a break and sit down while simultaneously having one of the best views of the stage. 

The bottom line

ARC blew all of our expectations out of the water.

This is the place to be when it comes to experiencing a well rounded house and techno event, and there are few things in the United States that come close to what they’re showcasing. This festival is something that we have typically only seen in places like Miami, but ARC is bringing the magic right to the birthplace of house music.

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