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Electronic festival back in Detroit

This year's event to showcase local talent, bigger acts

May 26, 2006

At the beginning of every summer, the city of Detroit transforms into an electronic playground.

Large tents and stages are constructed housing gigantic speakers, whirling neon lights and boisterous DJs scratching warm wax.

If it's May, it must be "Movement" — Detroit's own nationally celebrated electronic music festival.

In a carnival that lasts three days and nights, children of all ages will come from across the nation to dance to the sharp rhythms of dope DJs and nod to the slick voices of smooth emcees.

MSU international relations senior and first-time festival-goer Ashleigh Burgess expressed her excitement about going to this year's electronic romp.

"I am incredibly excited," Burgess said. "I expect to see a lot of really, really good Detroit techno. There are a lot of artists performing that I'm really into."

Coordinators hope to keep the festival fresh with new acts, merchandise and events.

However, it's the crowd and culture that is the scene's true pulse.

"We're looking forward to an amazing experience," said festival spokeswoman Shannon McCarthy. "We've got a great lineup this year, and the sponsors have been incredible."

This year, the festival is focusing a lot of attention on exposing the local scene by adding a new booth called "Detroit Row."

McCarthy said the exhibit is there to feature local talent.

"Detroit Row is basically a showcase of Detroit record labels, Detroit emerging artists, Detroit vendors and Detroit apparel," she said. "There are going to be 11 Detroit record labels in the Detroit Row area. They'll be selling cool things like vinyls, CDs and apparel."

While there will be numerous events and showcases to attend during the three-day party, Detroit Electronic Music Festival is and continues to be all about the artists.

Local Detroit-area musician, DJ Minx is one artist hopeful to make an impact at this year's festival. She talked about what it means to be invited to the festival, and what she expects to unleash during her performance.

"It should be a live one," Minx said. "My set is going to feature Diviniti, who will perform a few songs from my record label. I'm really looking forward to it."

Minx will be performing on the main stage at 1 p.m. Saturday.

In addition to the premier venue, the festival will feature four other stages, including the Underground, Pyramid, Real Detroit and Beatport stages.

Nationally recognized icons like Robert Hood, Tortured Soul and Richie Hawtin will ignite the dance floors with unique styles and quality music.

"It's going to be fabulous," Burgess said. "I think it's going to be a really good time and will showcase what Detroit can do."

Movement will take place May 27-29 at Hart Plaza, located at Jefferson Avenue at the Riverfront, in Detroit.

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