Underground Party Scenes in Tbilisi
In the heart of the Caucasus, Tbilisi, Georgia's capital, is witnessing a surge in the drum and bass (D&B) scene. This burgeoning movement, driven by a collective of passionate individuals, is adding a new beat to the city's already thriving electronic music landscape.
Rustam from Magnetude, a heavy-weight duo with releases on RAM Records and their own label, Evolution Chamber, has proposed a multi-genre music event to further open Georgian eyes and ears to the D&B scene. This idea follows Baba, one of the founders of DNB Georgia, who was inspired by his time raving in London and returned home to find no place for D&B in Georgia.
DNB Georgia, a collective organising D&B events, setting up a record label, and hosting podcasts for aspiring local DJs, is at the forefront of this movement. They have started releasing tracks under their official label, with some accompanied by lyrics in Georgian to attract local listeners.
The scene is not limited to Tbilisi. Collaborative events with music communities from neighbouring cities like Yerevan showcase cross-regional engagement and a shared interest in D&B. Venues such as Phloxy Club host dedicated D&B nights, blending international acts with Georgia's local bass culture.
Tbilisi's nightlife scene, with legendary status in the techno scene and world-class nightclubs like Bassiani, is providing a fertile ground for the D&B scene to grow. Bassiani, an enormous venue found in a former Olympic swimming pool beneath the country's national football stadium, has already hosted D&B events.
The Machete Boyz, local DJs in Georgia, believe the country has the potential to become a significant rave destination for D&B and bass music artists. Baba from DNB Georgia agrees, but believes the scene needs to grow at a steady pace due to economic factors. They receive many messages from artists who want to come to Georgia and hold a gig but face funding issues.
The war in Ukraine and Georgia's digital nomad visa have further boosted interest in the D&B scene. In 2022, Georgia attracted 5.4 million tourists, drawn by the country's stunning mountainous scenery, ski resorts, historical and cultural mix, and increasingly lively nightlife scene.
DNB Georgia has plans to collaborate with internationally recognised D&B artists and large labels, as well as festivals in other countries. They are also recording audio and video podcasts by residents on their label, along with guest performances, to help spread the word on social media.
With the careful nurturing by a dedicated and passionate group like DNB Georgia, the conditions look positive for the D&B scene to blossom in the future. The seed is firmly planted in Georgian soil, and the beat of the drum & bass is resonating louder with each passing day.
- The multi-genre music event proposed by Rustam from Magnetude, coupled with the collaborative efforts of DNB Georgia and other music communities, could potentially make Tbilisi a significant travel destination for drum and bass music lovers, enhancing the city's entertainment lifestyle.
- As DNB Georgia collaborates with internationally recognized D&B artists, travelers seeking an immersive lifestyle experience might find themselves intrigued by the unique blend of drum and bass music with Georgia's rich travel experiences and cultural heritage.
