For the past 30 years, Pias has been gathering together all sorts of artists, record labels and music genres. Their wide selection of performers always results in a diverse line-up, attracting a very eclectic audience. Previous editions brought have brought us the British band Editors, the Norwegian tunes of Royksopp, the beats of the Canadian DJ Tiga and the angelic voice of Flemish singer An Pierlé. It’s a excellent opportunity to discover something entirely new.
The line-up for the 30th birthday is, again, very promising. The first night finds gigs by the Scottish post-rock band Mogwai, an exclusive solo concert by Editors' lead singer and guitarist Tom Smith, the Flemish rocker Daan, the Danish singer-songwriter Agnes Obel and the popular American indie rock singer/guitarist Joan As Police Woman.
Overnight, the concert spaces get a makeover, so it’s ready for a proper DJ-led 30th birthday bash on Friday. This is one giant international party, featuring performances by the Parisian electro band The Toxic Avenger, Berlin’s Modeselektor and Flanders’ bestknown DJ duo 2manydjs. If you can, save some energy for France’s electronic hero Etienne de Crécy.
There’s an equally tempting party going on in the other room, with, amongst others, a live set by M83!, followed by none other than the French techno producer Laurent Garnier, with his new group LBS. It all starts at 20.00, and Garnier will be finishing up his set at about 5.30. Tickets are €37.50 or €63 for both nights.
Oh decisions, decisions. We would be remiss if we didn’t tell you about another birthday bash on the same weekend: Untitled!, Europe’s biggest indoor dubstep party, turns five this month. On 17 February, UK spin-masters Distance and Cookie Monsta will kick off the celebration weekend with dupstep’s biggest label, Deep Medi. The next day, Gemini (UK), Kastor & Dice (Antwerp) and record label Numbers are gearing up for another night of bass on the dance floor. It all happens at Trix in Antwerp, from 21.00 until some time the next morning. Tickets are €12.50 to €32 from Free Record Shop or online.
Flanders Today is a 
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