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Review Mon Sep 28 2015

Mad Decent Block Party in Review

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Mad Decent Block Party 2015 (photos by Rena Naltsas)

"PROHIBITED ITEMS: Pacifiers; Unsealed tampons; Kandi bracelets; Masks of any kind; Stuffed animals or dolls; Laser pointers; Frisbees and/or any other projectile." Security guidelines for the touring Mad Decent Block Party in Cicero on Saturday were as strict an EDM version of airport TSA. Guests were patted down, clothes and bags were intensely searched, and shoes were sniffed out by a K-9 unit to prevent any illegal substances (or opened feminine products) to be snuck into the desolate parking lot of the Hawthorne Race Track. We've compiled a photo diary of the day, allowing you to take part in the electric energy present at Mad Decent Block Party.

The 45-minute wait to pass security didn't completely destroy the crowd's fervent energy, as EDM fans from across Chicagoland relentlessly shimmied, hula hooped and gyrated throughout the entire 9-hour Diplo dance party, with Bud Light's unique festival can art to match the kaleidoscopic ambiance.

French duo Klingande soundtracked the sunset with tropical house and a live warbling saxophone over glossy, skating melodies. Grandtheft sampled familiar hip-hop choruses including multiple Drake remixes to a dizzying degree of haunting synth trap. Martin Solveig showcased his nu disco dupstep soundscape, amping the audience with his poppy remix "Hello." Diplo led the end-of-the-summer blowout to an explosive smash with his trio Major Lazer, featuring Jillionaire and Walshy Fire. The group pushed their fascination with global dance music to the fullest while honoring their newfound pop tracks such as "Lean On," while jumping off of banisters and surfing the crowd in a giant human hamster ball.

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Mad Decent Block Party 2015 (photos by Rena Naltsas)

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Mad Decent Block Party 2015 (photos by Rena Naltsas)

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Mad Decent Block Party 2015 (photos by Rena Naltsas)

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Mad Decent Block Party 2015 (photos by Rena Naltsas)

 
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Feature Thu Dec 31 2015

Our Final Transmission Days

By The Gapers Block Transmission Staff

Transmission staffers share their most cherished memories and moments while writing for Gapers Block.

Read this feature »

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Transmission is the music section of Gapers Block. It aims to highlight Chicago music in its many varied forms, as well as cover touring acts performing in the city. More...
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