Skrillex Shakes Up Seattle with a Surprise B2B Set

After a lengthy hiatus from the Seattle music scene, Skrillex returned this past weekend for an electrifying performance that music fans will not soon forget. Having last graced the city at Bumbershoot in 2012, Skrillex was joined by fellow artists Porter Robinson and Ninajirachi for a rare back-to-back (b2b) set at the Gas Works Day Party. This event was part of Showbox Presents, taking place at Gas Works Park, a National Register-listed site where a former gasification plant overlooks the picturesque waters of Lake Union.

The b2b set deviated from the traditional swapping of artists, favoring a continuous and high-energy showcase filled with innovative sounds. The set commenced with Skrillex's iconic track 'First Of The Year', smoothly transitioning into Ninajirachi’s edit of 'Angel Music'. The festivities continued as the trio dropped Skrillex and Virtual Riot’s collaborative piece, 'WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING', followed by Skrillex’s much-loved remix of Avicii's classic 'Levels', alongside ISOxo’s edit of the same track. A highlight of the performance was the track 'WannaCry', a collaboration between Robinson and Ninajirachi that made waves after its surprise debut during Ninajirachi’s set at Coachella earlier this year. Following months of extensive touring, the track was officially released this summer, adding to the momentum of the performance.

What makes this event particularly noteworthy is the rarity of audio and visual documentation. Recording was reportedly prohibited at the venue, resulting in a mere 20-minute clip that has circulated online, providing fans with an exclusive glimpse of the spontaneous energy of a set that was never intended to be recorded. This footage captures a unique moment, blending skillful artistry and audience engagement, presenting a profound sense of community among electronic music enthusiasts.

For many fans, Skrillex’s in-person return marks a significant occasion within the electronic dance music community. The collaborative efforts of the three artists at such a storied venue made for a remarkable celebration of the genre. As they energized the crowd with their masterful blend of tracks, it became evident that the synergy among them transcended the boundaries of a single performance. This remarkable reunion will surely leave an indelible mark in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to witness it and raise expectations for future appearances in the Pacific Northwest region.