DGTL festival: a revolution !

---

Still in afterglow from an incredible Easter weekend at the historical NDSM docklands in Amsterdam, we are going through OUR PICTURES and can’t even decide which ones to select for you – there were so many moments-to-eternalize squeezed into this three-days lasting joyride. Not surprisingly, this fourth edition of DGTL festival Amsterdam was definitely a success. The festival was sold out weeks in advance.

A look at the line-up is enough to understand the high level of the musical quality; no need to amplify that. Each stage having its own look-and-feel, it’s difficult to pick a favorite. Sound quality was impeccable everywhere. It really depends on what mood you’re in at the moment. But during this cold and windy Easter weekend, we found the Audio stage the most special during daylight time. It was a huge transparent tent showing the clouds, the sun, and all other weather conditions – yes, we got the four seasons in one weekend. Don’t worry, no need to teach the Dutch how to cope with bad weather. As easily as they grow Mediterranean veggies in greenhouses, they create a tropical day-time party in Amsterdam. Sunday afternoon, for instance, it was pouring rain. &ME, being all smiles, radiated his friendly vibe over the crowd and turned this ‚greenhouse‘ into a happy beach party. We actually saw people growing in there; maybe that’s why the Dutch are so tall.

Greenhouses are not eco-friendly, I hear you thinking? On the contrary, at DGTL, the Audio stage is 100% solar powered. Next to the stage there is a huge solar battery standing, providing all the electricity needed for sound and light. No generators, no fossil fuels, just clean energy. And this eco-friendly philosophy is well implemented in every step of the production. We really loved the fact that there is a deposit for the reusable cups: no waste on the ground, resulting in a much better dancing experience compared to dance floors littered with empty disposable cups.

A little note to the organizers: your audience is becoming more and more international. Music-lovers from all over the world travel to Amsterdam for DGTL. They might want to understand how to find the ‘nooduitgang’. Maybe it’s time to seek for English-speaking M.C.’s for the announcements in between shows. We spoke to people from Finland, Israel, Argentina, Sri Lanka, California, the U.K., France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, and Spain. A few witnesses:

Ele (Buenos Aires, Argentina): “I have no words to describe the general ambiance, such a good organization. Both to get into the parties and to go out, it was always very calm (or maybe there was the mood that made me feel that). I was quite sceptical about the system of credits to buy food and drinks but it was fast and I loved the food offer (good quality & veggie!). I really enjoy festivals where you have so many tents (6 this time), my favorites Analog and the big transparent one, Audio – to party in daylight, great idea! I really loved the experience, happy cool people everywhere!”

Veronika (Hamburg, Germany): “DGTL is a great festival. Especially the floor in the crane totally thrilled me. I have no idea who played there, but the vibe, view and location were amazing.”

Davy (Belgium): “Great festival with great line-up. The organization was top except for sometimes long queues at the drink stands and a very long queue to get into the after parties. It is a shame that the Ellum tent was leaking on Sunday, though.”

Jasmin (Helsinki, Finland): “For an area with big warehouses and a lot of people I found it surprisingly cozy and the overall atmosphere was warm and friendly. Catching eye contact with a stranger passing by created an instant smile on both our faces and from that moment we weren’t strangers anymore but fellow party-goers sharing a memorable experience.”

David (Scotland): “Very impressed by the line-up and the eclectic mix of acts that were playing live demonstrated an orchestrated approach to set list. The venue is one of the most impressive I’ve experienced due to the location. The stages and venue are engulfed by a raw back-set of industrialized Amsterdam and as you take in the atmosphere you can’t help but feel optimistic about this once deprived area. The bar and food area were very well stocked and served, the quality was excellent and a standard above a normal festival of this nature. However, I feel it was slightly expensive for the quantity of beer and food you received for your money. But overall, other than the slightly confusing bar pricing (extra deposit for the cups) and the edging on overpriced beer I regard this festival as a must attend in my social calendar and will return for my third time next year as it is definitely one of the best!” 

Michelle (California): “DGTL was such a great start to festival season from the yummy veggie options, sparkly toilets, and of course aural bliss. The only draw back is trying to get a refund for my credits on my wristband. As an American I don’t have an IBAN account number which is required to process the refund. Overall though, it was a stellar weekend!” 

For more pictures, have a look at our DGTL photo album at www.facebook.com/HennesyDelPradoOfficial.

For sure we will be back next year for another amazing musical experience! Thank you DGTL!