Electric Zoo ’13 Artist Spotlight: Audien to make Big Apple home at Zoo debut
The newly legal, 21-year-old Nate Rathbun is set to wrap up festival season in the New York area with his Electric Zoo debut. Ready to man the Main Stage West at Randall’s Island Park, he finds himself not far from his roots, just over 100 miles from his hometown of Mystic, Connecticut where the phenom known as Audien was born. Experimenting with sounds since the age of 17, he’s now delivered a polished product within the tri-state area; but his Governors Island showcase earlier this summer will prove to be just a taste of the festival-ready artist.
His sound resonated with fans as an initial breed of progressive trance, unique in its own regard and heavily influenced by melodic chord play. Only a year ago he was riding the waves of his trance persona as Anjunabeats hosted an initial two-track EP before unleashing “Wayfarer” as his breakthrough hit back in January. Then, of course, there was “Leaving You,” his immediate return to the release circuit to flaunt the latter end of his talent while the spotlight remained brightest. With progressive-trance capabilities proven, Audien pulled out all the stops for the melodic gem with vocals from Michael S. With the appeal of a top 40 record, without jeopardizing his signature sound, Nate found his stride.
Audien ft. Michael S – Leaving You (Original Mix)
Months later the rising star has even more original works and remixes for the likes of Bruno Mars under his belt, quickly building up the repertoire that’s landed him in New York’s most treasured DJ booth. On the first day of Electric Zoo’s fifth anniversary celebration, fans will be greeted with a welcome back set from Audien amidst the likes of Deniz Koyu, Dannic, and Showtek during the peak hours of the afternoon.
Expect a set reflective of his roots, evolving sound, and preferences in between. Mixing up a wide array of sounds equipped with records ranging from Above & Beyond to Knife Party, Audien’s New York offering will either fit your preferences or lead you to a new appreciation. The neophyte filled up Tomorrowland’s Main Stage grounds during its earliest hours and impressed throughout its entirety; and that was thousands of miles from his comfort zone. At Randall’s Island, however, Audien will gain an immediate appreciation from the crowd, extending his home territory across the tri-state and claiming a piece of the Big Apple for Labor Day Weekend and beyond.
Categories: Music