CRSSD Fest made its highly anticipated return to San Diego’s Waterfront Park for the Fall 2024 edition, reaffirming its status as a premier destination for house and techno enthusiasts. Although the festival was bustling, the meticulous attention to detail and impeccable production raised the experience for all attendees. From unforgettable performances to top-notch amenities, CRSSD Fest proved its position as one of the foremost electronic music festivals on the West Coast.
Unforgettable Sets from Iconic Artists
The music remained the heart of CRSSD Fall 2024. Gesaffelstein captivated attendees with a mysterious and intense set, transforming the Oceanview stage into an immersive experience filled with dark techno and moody visuals that mesmerized the audience. The relentless energy of Klangkuenstler at the City Steps stage solidified his status as a crowd favorite with electrifying beats and seamless transitions. Additionally, Hi-Lo and Boris Brechja showcased their renowned sounds on different stages, reinforcing their influential presence in the electronic music scene.
Nora En Pure took over for TOKiMONSTA and left a lasting impression with an extended set. Her melodic deep house style perfectly resonated with the festival atmosphere, guiding festival-goers through a memorable sunset filled with rhythmic melodies.
Festival Favorites
In addition, Idris Elba delivered one of the standout sets of the weekend at The Palms stage, showcasing his exceptional crowd control. Transitioning effortlessly between upbeat commercial house tracks and deeper, underground sounds, he kept the audience captivated throughout his performance. Having also delivered an intimate underground set at Oxford House in San Diego, it was evident that he adeptly caters to both large festival crowds and smaller, selective audiences. Both performances were among my top picks of the weekend, with his festival set ultimately taking precedence due to the electrifying energy he brought.
BLOND:ISH embraced a different strategy during her performance. Her festival set highlighted Afrohouse rhythms, creating a lively and danceable atmosphere, while her after-party set at The Rail ventured into more profound explorations. Maintaining Afrohouse as her foundation, she infused underground beats to craft an enthralling musical experience that surprised and delighted attendees.
Production & Vibes On Point
While CRSSD has the potential to become crowded, festival organizers ensured top-notch logistics. An adequate number of restrooms, particularly the standing urinal area, resulted in shorter lines, allowing fans to return to the music quickly. Although upgraded restrooms would enhance the festival experience, CRSSD’s commitment to equality by not establishing VIP areas is a significant highlight. This choice facilitates a shared experience among all attendees who seek to dance and revel in the music.
The stage production truly stood out this year, with Soulwax, Tinlicker, and Disclosure utilizing mesmerizing visuals at the Oceanview stage, creating a multi-sensory experience that perfectly complemented their performances. BICEP showcased their stunning Chroma AV set, fusing their distinctive sound with captivating visuals to deliver an immersive audiovisual experience. Meanwhile, Gorgon City energized The Palms stage with their infectious house beats, keeping the crowd moving with tracks from their latest albums ‘Reverie’ and ‘Salvation’.
Afrohouse & The After-Party Magic
No festival weekend is complete without a proper after-party. BLOND:ISH’s performance at The Rail with Desiree was nothing short of spiritual, transforming the tight venue into a jungle-themed dance haven infused with Afrohouse vibes. Despite the closeness of the crowd, the energy remained overwhelmingly positive, leaving me feeling uplifted and satisfied—quite the difference from the frustration that often accompanies crowded spaces.
Looking Ahead to Proper NYE
Adam Beyer may not have closed the festival, but his prime-time set at City Steps around 6:15 captured the crowd with his signature techno sound. His forceful, no-nonsense approach left families mesmerized. As the final beats reverberated through the park, it was evident that CRSSD Fest consistently delivers unique and unforgettable experiences. Excitement is already brewing for Proper NYE at Petco Park. If this weekend was any indication, we can expect another wave of unmissable performances to usher in the new year. In conclusion, see you in December!
