In the later part of the 2010's, one of North American's largest and most prominent Industrial music festivals expanded to Los Angeles along with showcases in New York and San Francisco. While nothing comes close to replicating Cold Waves' home plate at The Metro in Chicago, the west coast gets a big bite with a carefully curated condensed version.

Photo by Gerardo Yepiz 

Known for having a diverse lineup, the annual fest not only brings in LA's devoted dark alternative audience, but also music fans from all over the world and provides a history lesson on Industrial with pioneers in the genre like Front 242, Nitzer Ebb, Meat Beat Manifesto, Test Dept, Front Line Assembly, Revolting Cocks, and Severed Heads. At the same time, Cold Waves ensures a spotlight on a newer up and coming voices in the scene like Sierra, Kite, Author & Punisher, Ms Boan, Haex, and Puerta Negra.

It's also important to note Cracknation booking, (who founded and continually assembles these yearly multi city festivals) also created Darkest Before Dawn.  A non-profit which helps "provide mental health resources, support, and community for the live-music, restaurant and service industry community, who's late hours and isolated commutes leave them susceptible to depression, addiction and suicide." This year's edition has already been announced for October 13th and tickets are currently on sale HERE. The lineup includes IAMX, Beborn Beton, KITE, Patriarchy, Houses of Heaven, Puerta Negra, and Ms Boan with DJs Rev John and Baby Magick. 

DAVID CHRISTIAN - AUGUST 26, 2024