‘Mechanical Advantage’ on a quest to elevate Rwanda's electronic music culture

Volcano Fest is bringing back its popular event, Mechanical Advantage, with a “Hydraulic Flavored” episode on Saturday, August 10 at Mundi Center. Multiple artists from the region are set to light up the stages. Launched in March, Mechanical Advantage is a collaboration between Volcano Fest, Urban Gorilla, Mundi, and Nyege Nyege Festival to introduce Rwandans to electronic dance music. ALSO READ: Thrills, vibes of Volkano Fest: What to expect this year “We’re flying talents from East Africa and Reunion Island to spice up the sonic mix with bangers never heard on these hills,” said Eric Soul, founder of Afrogroov and communication manager at Volcano Fest, in an interview with The New Times. Mechanical Advantage serves as a platform for Rwandan electronic music DJs, featuring both regional and globally recognized DJs. It was created to fill a gap in Rwanda's music scene by celebrating African electronic music, which is new but rapidly gaining attention. The inaugural event attracted over 400 attendees, and subsequent editions of its counterpart, Volkano Fest, have drawn thousands of revelers. ALSO READ: The making of Electronic Dance Music genre in Rwanda “We’re hosting talent from Kenya (SoulFud), Réunion Island (Jon Boz), and DR Congo (DJ Chrisman, returning). Uganda will be represented by DJs Creed and Rooney, while Rwanda’s own Shell Queen will showcase her skills,” Soul added. Mechanical Advantage episodes have often highlighted female DJs at the forefront of the East African electronic music movement. “Artists are selected by a team of our curators and creative directors who have good experience and a wide network in the region and globally within the electronic music scene and culture,” explained Team Volcano Fest. ALSO READ: Mellow Fest delivers pure Rwandan rap vibes “Expect innovative sounds that push boundaries and offer a fresh experience on the dance floors of Kigali. The venue itself is a big part of the experience – a large, open-air space with multiple zones, including a dynamic dancefloor equipped with a booming sound system, screens, and an impressive light show. Guests can also enjoy our open-air garden, BBQ, cocktail bar, and VIP section. We have partnered with top-tier providers to ensure exceptional service for drinks and food all night long.” Looking ahead, organizers plan to invite top international electronic music artists to perform in Rwanda, including James Hype, Da Capo, and the Keinemusik crew, among others. With ongoing support, they aim to develop Mechanical Advantage into the ultimate destination for cutting-edge club culture in Rwanda, attracting enthusiasts from across the region and the continent. Tickets are on sale for Rwf7,000 for early birds and Rwf10,000 at the door. In previous editions, Volcano Fest has identified other musical genres that need a spotlight, such as jazz. “The Jazz event is another event we are trying to create for a unique experience,” said Team Volcano Fest. When asked about their upcoming events, the Volcano Festival, held annually in Musanze, is scheduled for October 4 to 6, 2024. The festival will feature a three-day music stage with a well-curated lineup of artists from Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, DR Congo, and European guest artists. In addition, the festival will include a film program, wellness activities, pop-up experiences, and a newly added tropical stage.

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‘Mechanical Advantage’ on a quest to elevate Rwanda's electronic music culture