Reloaded, July 31st – August 3rd, Monte Gelato, Rome, Italy
The Festival we have all come to know and love as ‘Sonica’ is re-born this year with a new name and team ‘Reloaded’. The name has obvious connotations behind it, a new concept, new location (and WHAT a location!), taking place in a protected area filled with waterfalls, trees and a river – this venue is one of Italy’s most outstanding natural areas. Give me this place over the Isle of Wight any day. So the whole ethos of the event has changed. Inspired by ecology and the green world, Reloaded brings is three massive enviromentally-inspired dance floors; Solar, Lunar and Gala – now I always related Gala to my local bingo club but I don’t think you’ll be shouting house here. Instead it’s Psychedelic, Techno, Progressive, Electro, Chilled grooves and World Music with an amazing line up. From the live sector we have the likes of Etnica, GMS, System 7, Kox Box, Broken Toy, Laughing Buddah, Fearsome Engine, EVP, M-Theory and Eat Static whilst taking to the decks people like Shane Gobi, Rinkadink, Gino, Riktam & Bansi, D-Nox, Tom Real, M-45 and Max Lanfranconi. Of course there are the usual festival attractions, your fireworks, acrobats, open air cinema, weirdos walking about talking nonsense… but Reloaded will also be bringing us bio-installments, workshops, healing practises, massasge, meditation, healthy food instead of a greasy burger and the best bit, swimming in the waterfalls. I am digging my Speedo’s out as I write. Monte Gelato is situated 45km outside of Rome and is 30km from the historic village of Clacata, an historic village built on historic cliffs that was once overtaken by Italian hippies and artists in the 60s who set about restoring the ancient town making it a truly inspired visit today. Camping at the festival is available which should be amazing under the Italian stars and sunshine. A great newish addition to what is going to be the busiest summer festival wise, grab an early bird ticket quickly and book a flight. To me, this is the equivalent of the UK’s Secret Garden Party…
www.re-loaded.org/en/
