Australian DJ Dom Dolla returns to Aspen Saturday to headline the Up in the Sky Music Festival that happens at Buttermilk Friday and Saturday.Jason Charme/Aspen Daily News
A Celebration of Music in the Heart of Aspen
The picturesque mountains of Aspen are set to come alive with the rhythm of music as the Up in the Sky Music Festival takes center stage at Buttermilk this coming weekend. With a diverse lineup featuring both renowned headliners and rising stars, the festival promises to be a feast for music lovers of all genres.
A Vibrant Atmosphere
Festival organizers David and Danny Goldberg have shared their vision for the event, emphasizing the intent to create not just a concert but an experience. “Our main goal is to make sure that we capture a good vibe for being outside in the summer in the mountains,” David explained. This ethos is reflected in their decision to choose two electronic headliners to close out each night, allowing attendees to dance under the stars and celebrate the beauty of summer in Aspen.
Embracing Diversity in Music
Danny pitched in about the festival’s lineup, stating, “When you’re trying to build an overall lineup, you try to have diversity.” Their careful curation exemplifies this commitment, featuring a blend of artists who are both well-known and emerging talents. This year, festival-goers will enjoy a plethora of dance-leaning live music, indie sounds, and electronic vibes, creating a rich sonic landscape throughout the weekend.
One highlight of the festival is the inclusion of Leon Thomas, a three-time Grammy Award-winning R&B artist. “We wanted to bring in a different genre,” David remarked. His presence not only adds variety but contributes to the overall atmosphere—Leon is currently celebrated for winning accolades for Best R&B Album and Best Traditional R&B Performance.
The Musical Journey
The Goldbergs have emphasized that both days will showcase live bands, specifically focusing on indie, alternative, and electro-pop genres. This structure allows for a natural transition from the day’s performances building up to the headlining acts, creating a musical arc that enhances the festival’s overall experience. Interestingly, only a minority of performers are strict electronic acts, promoting an atmosphere where live music can thrive.
Aspen: A Year-Round Destination
The Up in the Sky Festival aligns with Belly Up’s initiative to position Aspen as a premier destination for large-scale festivals anchored in electronic music. “Everyone knows how beautiful Aspen is,” Danny noted. While winter often steals the spotlight, this festival aims to showcase the area’s summer allure, drawing people to appreciate the unmatched landscape and community spirit.
Memories in the Making
As anticipation builds, David expressed a heartfelt sentiment about what he hopes attendees will take away from the festival: “We want people to take away memories with people they love in special surroundings. That’s what we’re after—great experiences, great performances in as beautiful a setting as it gets.” The focus on creating unforgettable moments amidst the natural beauty of Aspen resonates with the festival’s core mission, aiming to unite music enthusiasts in a celebration of art, culture, and community.
With Dom Dolla headlining and a stellar lineup of diverse performances on the horizon, the Up in the Sky Music Festival is poised to be an unforgettable event, capturing the essence of summer and the magic of live music in the mountains.
