Electronic Music’s Roots and the Innovative Spirit of Big Ears Festival 2025
If you appreciate modern electronic music, Big Ears Festival should definitely be on your radar. This festival is particularly valuable for those whose musical tastes have evolved over time.
Electronic music extends beyond DJs and dancefloors. Before the emergence of disco—and its enduring influence on today’s EDM scenes—artists were delving into more avant-garde and experimental realms. Some of these pioneers have continued their explorations, and Big Ears serves as an ideal venue for these innovators, featuring talents alongside notable figures such as Béla Fleck, Sun Ra Arkestra, and Les Claypool’s Bastard Jazz.
If you’re weary of the repetitive nature of mainstream electronic music, attending Big Ears Festival 2025 offers a refreshing perspective on the genre. Below, we highlight five acts to check out at this year’s festival in Knoxville, Tennessee, from March 27-30.
An Electronic Music Fan’s Guide to the Big Ears Festival 2025 Lineup:
Darkside
Darkside is an electronic music duo made up of Dave Harrington and Nicolas Jaar. Jaar is renowned among enthusiasts of sophisticated electronic music, especially after his iconic 2011 debut album, Space Is Only Noise. His partnership with Harrington in Darkside has produced equally compelling work, including their acclaimed 2013 debut album, Psychic, which earned a notable 9.0 rating from Pitchfork.
Steve Roach
A pioneer in the realm of ambient music, Steve Roach released his debut album, Now, back in 1982. His innovative use of various instruments—from synthesizers to traditional sounds—has shaped the landscape of electronic music since then. For a taste of his recent work, check out his October 2024 album, Crossing the Bridge – Live in Boulder.
Michael Rother
Michael Rother was a founding member of the iconic German electronic music group Kraftwerk, starting back in 1971. However, he is perhaps more widely recognized for his work with the bands Neu! and Harmonia, both of which produced landmark records in German pop culture. His recent solo effort, Dreaming, released in 2020, marked his first new music in 16 years.
Anti Pop Consortium
Combining elements of hip-hop and experimental electronic music, Anti Pop Consortium has been at the forefront of genre innovation since their debut in 2000 with Tragic Epilogue. Their distinctive sound merges improvisational live performances with thought-provoking lyrics, often rich with social insights. Influential in their own right, they have inspired artists like Run The Jewels, Death Grips, and Moor Mother.
Immersion
Immersion is a collaboration between Colin Newman of Wire and Malka Spigel from Minimal Compact. Their work is expansive and unrestricted, blending elements of rock and indie music while often venturing into experimental soundscapes that defy simple categorization. Tracks like “State of Motion,” “Riding the Wave,” and “Cross Pollination” showcase the diverse creativity present in their performances.
