On Saturday, May 9, we returned to scenic Eugene, Oregon, for the fourth consecutive year for Red Cube’s renowned Foam Wonderland. This vibrant festival has become a beloved cornerstone of the Oregon rave scene, showcasing some of the most significant names in electronic dance music (EDM) at the Cuthbert outdoor amphitheatre. Foam Wonderland is not just a party; it’s a rite of passage for many young adults, offering their first taste of the electrifying world of EDM. This year, the lineup attracted a diverse crowd, from first-time festival-goers to seasoned veterans and even some residents reminiscent of the early rave days.
This year’s edition offered an impressive upgrade in amenities. With the incorporation of electronic payment systems and a broader selection of food and drink options, attendees enjoyed shorter wait times. The event saw faster entry and service, allowing everyone more time to partake in the fun rather than standing in long lines. In contrast to previous years, it seems that the organizers had opted for a modest reduction in ticket sales, but attendees welcomed this change as it greatly enhanced the overall experience. Once we slipped through the gates, the excitement in the air was palpable, and we quickly found a prime spot for the exhilarating performances ahead.
The lineup this year was the most eclectic to date, featuring a rich tapestry of genres including house, hip-hop, mumbaton, heavy bass, and dubstep. As the sun beamed down and fans eagerly poured into the amphitheatre, Kansas City artist Veng took the stage and set the tone with a lively multi-genre mix. His mashups, which blended house beats and wubby bass, resonated through the crowd, igniting the energy and getting everyone warmed up for the day.
Credit: Rachel Whitcomb
With each pulse of the beat, the crowd swelled, attracting the fashionably late as Tampa-based DJ Machaki took over. Machaki cranked up the energy with heavy-bass remixes of classic hip-hop tracks and nostalgic hits from the 2010s, keeping the vibe electric and the audience moving.
Next, bass music powerhouse Jon Casey graced the decks, delivering a crash course in international bass music styles. Casey, known for his unique blend of percussive rhythms and vibrant bass lines, captivated the audience with tracks from his established career, including tunes from his latest EP, Happy To Be Here. His set struck a chord with an audience that loves the deeper nuances of bass music.
As the sun dipped below the horizon and the night unfolded, Effin took the stage, beginning his captivating set with the haunting notes of the Ink Spots classic, I Don’t Want to Set the World on Fire. Effin’s innovative style marries early 20th-century sounds with contemporary EDM, whisking the crowd on an auditory journey that was both nostalgic and refreshing. The visuals danced along with the foam, creating a fully immersive experience that left attendees in awe.
Credit: Rachel Whitcomb
Finally, the night reached its zenith with heavyweights Ray Volpe and Kai Wachi headlining the event. Their exhilarating set melded high-energy tracks with mesmerizing visuals, perfectly encapsulating the essence of Foam Wonderland. Both artists brought their A-game, flawlessly transitioning between their latest work and crowd favorites, including Ray Volpe’s renowned 2022 hit, Laserbeam, alongside fresh tracks from Kai Wachi’s latest album, Nekrosis.
Credit: Rachel Whitcomb
Even as the main festival concluded, the energy was far from over. We headed to the McDonald Theatre for the Foam Wonderland Afterparty, where ravers arrived via an endless stream of Ubers and rideshares. Inside, local DJ Abaddon provided a vibrant mix of multi-genre classics, keeping the good vibes flowing. As the night progressed, prominent producer Tisoki took the stage, revving up the crowd with tracks from his two-decade-long career. In a thrilling surprise, both Ray Volpe and Kai Wachi joined him, propelling the energy to exhilarating heights during the final half of his set.
To cap off the night, the talented Jkyl & Hyde brought a whirlwind of nostalgia and creativity with his unique brand of experimental bass and dubstep. His set featured spellbinding remixes of Fanagram’s When I’m Small and Julia Wolfe’s In My Room, alongside his original compositions like Sensory Sessions from his latest album, Second Self.
Credit: Rachel Whitcomb
As we left Eugene, our hearts were full of joy and the memories of another fantastic year of Foam Wonderland. With countless new experiences, music, and friends, we eagerly counted the days until we reunite in this picturesque location for another round of unforgettable fun, family, and foam—courtesy of Red Cube and Disco Presents.
