Ampere Open Air

On August 25th, Antwerp based collective and sustainable creative space, Ampere, will celebrate their 5th year of existence with the launch of the inaugural Ampere Open Air. Located at the Middenvijver, in the outskirts of Antwerp, the festival will feature more than 50 international and local artists divided over 5 thoughtfully curated stages and will be teaming up with the infamous Boiler Room as a stage host and live-streaming partner.

So far, Ampere has announced some of the most influential artists from different corners of the electronic music landscape. Techno purists are in for a treat, with Detroit legend Jeff Mills, joining Berghain Berlin resident Len Faki, Ostgut's crown jewel Marcel Dettmann and Recondite who will be performing live. House music will be represented as well, with performances by legend of the genre and co-founder of Innervisions Dixon and the Miami-based owner of the infamous Life and Death label DJ Tennis. For those who like their sounds more stripped back, Romanian stalwarts Raresh & Praslea will perform as the revered Praslesh duo.

Ampere Open Air is also giving festival-goers the chance to discover Valentin Tszin's unique performance: the Russian-born artist and dance researcher has made a name exploring the worlds of architecture, film, contemporary art, theatre and new media, and has been producing his most recent works in collaboration with various techno musicians. A rare opportunity for the crowd to witness a beautiful, innovative and out of the box evolution of arts and electronic music.

Another highlight of the festival will be an hommage to nightlife pioneer and originator of the famous sound of Belgium Yves Deruyter. Deruyter had a significant impact on the development of electronic music in our country and beyond, producing an impressive amount of classic tunes released on the legendary Bonzai record label. He was a resident at iconic clubs such as Cherry Moon, Globe and Barocci, and a regular guest at memorable raves like May Day and Love Parade.

Complementing the headliners, Ampere has curated a forward thinking line-up showcasing a range of rising and established underground talent from house, techno, ambient to future jazz. Amongst the announced names, are talents such as Ben Hayes, Synkro, and Dekmantel's Betonkust & Palmbomen II. In addition, Donna Leake, Dan Shake, Stellar Om Source, David Vunk and rising talent Gabriella Vergilov represent a selection of musicians with creative and broad inspirations, sure to nurture the soul and ears of a receptive crowd.

Joining the line-up as well, the minimal golden child Ion Ludwig will perform live, while the mystical Lost Desert is expected to deliver one of his characteristic eery DJ sets. Straight from Berlin, the young and talented Emily Jeanne will return to her homeland to show what she's been up to.

Besides a strong international selection, are some of Antwerp's highest calibre local talents. Ampere Open Air endeavours to give many undiscovered gems a well-deserved platform to showcase their artistry and musical creativity. Accordingly, the lineup favours a strong focus on locals such as composer and live performer Hiele, the rising star Lola Haro, and the illustrious Borokov Borokov Live.

When it comes to festivals, Belgium's offering is amongst the most dense in Europe. As such, Ampere Open Air has distinguished itself as a unique offering with a diverse line up, whilst remaining affordable for everyone. Ampere Open Air presents an accessible event with a wide spectrum of musical diversity and opportunities for local sustainable initiatives. Attendees will be given a worthwhile experience, where music, culture and creativity collide to create something inspiring and renewing.