Lovefest 2024: A sonic paradise in the heart of Serbia

Ph: Ervin Kovac

Lovefest 2024 was more than just a festival—it was a celebration of unity, culture, and the transformative power of music. Held in the picturesque setting of Vrnjacka Banja, Serbia, Lovefest has long been a beacon for electronic music lovers, and this year’s edition only solidified its reputation as one of Europe’s must-visit music festivals.

From its humble beginnings, Lovefest has grown into a vibrant cultural phenomenon, attracting a diverse crowd of music enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. The festival’s ethos—centered around love, connection, and a shared passion for music—was palpable throughout the event. “Since its inception, Lovefest has been driven by a passion for quality electronic music. After all these years, it remains a space where hearts connect through music. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this year special!” said Zoran Stanojevic, the owner of the festival.

Ph: Benny Gasi

The Fire stage at Lovefest stood as a monumental centerpiece, blending vibrant visuals with colorful pyrotechnics. At night, the stage transformed into a fiery spectacle, with flames illuminating the sky, underscoring the intense energy that Lovefest is known for. It was not just a platform for music—it was a symbol of the festival’s dynamic energy and its ability to bring people together through the universal language of sound.

In the words of Nikola Vemic, the booking manager, “This year we managed to raise the standards and provide the audience with an unforgettable experience. We would like to thank all the performers and fans for making Lovefest a place where music really brings people together.”

Ph: Benny Gasi

Ilija Djokovic had the honor of kicking off Lovefest 2024 on the Fire Stage, setting the tone for what would become an unforgettable weekend of music. As the first DJ to take the stage, Djokovic faced the challenge of warming up the crowd, a task he handled with the precision and skill that has made him one of Serbia’s standout techno talents. With a mix of original tracks and carefully selected bangers, Djokovic created an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement, laying down the groundwork for the intense energy that would follow.

By the time he handed over the decks to Adam Beyer, the Fire Stage was fully alive, buzzing with the energy of a crowd that was now fully engrossed in the festival spirit. Djokovic’s opening set was not just a warm-up; it was a statement, proving that he is a force to be reckoned with in the techno scene. His performance was the perfect start to the festival, setting a high bar for the incredible acts that would follow.

Ph: Aleksandra Pesic

Adam Beyer, a giant in the techno world, took the Fire stage to its absolute peak. As the founder of Drumcode, Beyer’s reputation for delivering powerful, no-nonsense techno precedes him, and he more than lived up to it. Beyer’s ability to manipulate the energy of the crowd was on full display, as he seamlessly transitioned from pounding, industrial beats to more melodic, atmospheric tracks. The synergy between Beyer and the audience was palpable, as each transition and bass drop elicited waves of euphoria from the thousands gathered.

Adam Beyer’s set was a testament to his enduring relevance in the techno world. His ability to adapt his sound while staying true to the core of what makes techno so compelling was evident throughout his performance. It was a set that not only pleased long-time fans but also captivated those new to his sound, solidifying his status as a true techno maestro.

Ph: Matija Borbelj

Shlomo’s sunrise set at the Fire Stage was a testament to the juxtaposition of the raw power of hard techno with the natural beauty of a new day breaking over the horizon. As he took to the stage, the festival grounds were still cloaked in darkness, with the pounding beats and eerie synths creating an intense, almost surreal atmosphere. As the night gave way to the first light of dawn, Shlomo’s set took on an even more epic dimension. The transition from darkness to light was mirrored in his music, with the relentless, driving beats continuing to pulse through the crowd as the sky gradually lightened.

One of the standout moments of his set was when he dropped a hard techno version of what had arguably become the anthem of the summer: Adam Port & Stryv’s "Move." The track, already a festival favorite, took on a new, electrifying dimension in Shlomo’s hands. The hard techno version added a gritty, industrial edge that fit perfectly with the mood of the morning.

Ph: Aleksandra Pesic

The second night on the Fire Stage marked a significant shift in energy, with the focus turning to the infectious grooves of house music. Traumer played a pivotal role in this transition, guiding the crowd from the intense techno of the previous night into a world of deeper, more melodic sounds. Known for his intricate percussion and deep, rolling basslines, Traumer’s set was a journey into the more refined side of electronic music.

He started off with smooth, rhythmic tracks that gradually drew the crowd into his world, each beat carefully crafted to build the perfect vibe. As his set built towards its climax, Traumer began to introduce more driving elements, pushing the tempo and intensity just enough to keep the energy high without losing the subtlety that defined his performance. By the end of his set, the crowd was fully immersed, ready for the next act but also deeply appreciative of the musical journey Traumer had taken them on.

Ph: Benny Gasi

As one of the emerging talents in the underground house scene, Chris Stussy has quickly made a name for himself with his impeccable taste and ability to craft sets that are both soulful and infectious. At Lovefest, he brought his signature sound to life, delivering a set that perfectly balanced smooth, melodic elements with a punchy, danceable groove. He has a knack for creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and broad, and this was evident from the moment his first track dropped.

As the set progressed, Stussy seamlessly blended classic house vibes with more modern, tech-infused beats, keeping the crowd locked in a groove that was both uplifting and irresistible. His ability to read the crowd and respond with the perfect track was on full display, as he moved effortlessly between deeper, more soulful cuts and tracks that brought a more driving, energetic feel to the mix. The result was a dynamic set that kept the crowd moving from start to finish.

Ph: Aleksandra Pesic

In contrast to the grandeur of the Fire stage, the Energy stage offered a more intimate experience, tucked away within the lush forests of Vrnjacka Banja. This smaller, cozier setting was perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with the music. The Energy stage was graced by none other than the legendary Laurent Garnier, whose presence added an extra layer of excitement to the lineup. The Energy stage felt almost like a secret hideaway, where festival-goers could engulf themselves in the soundscapes of some of the most respected names in the scene

Ph: Ervin Kovac

DJ Nobu’s set on the Energy Stage was a journey into the deeper, more experimental realms of techno, showcasing his reputation as one of the most innovative and respected figures in the global underground scene. Known for his eclectic and boundary-pushing selections, Nobu brought an intensity and depth to his performance that resonated deeply with the crowd. His sound is often described as abstract and otherworldly, and this was fully on display as he explored the more esoteric corners of techno.

What set Nobu’s performance apart was his ability to maintain a cohesive flow while navigating a wide range of sonic textures. From deep, throbbing basslines to sharp, percussive elements, every track was chosen with precision, contributing to the overall narrative of the set. The Energy Stage, smaller and more intimate, nestled within the forest, provided the perfect environment for Nobu’s deep, immersive sound. DJ Nobu’s set was not just a performance but a deep dive into the art of DJing—an exploration of mood, atmosphere, and rhythm that captivated everyone present.

Ph: Benny Gasi

Danilo Plessow, known for his work as Motor City Drum Ensemble, brought his signature blend of deep house, disco, and jazz-infused beats to the intimate, forested venue. Now performing under his own name, Plessow showcased the same impeccable taste and deep musical knowledge that has made him a respected figure in the global house music scene. His transitions were smooth and effortless, reflecting his deep understanding of how to build and sustain energy over the course of a set. The rich, soulful selections were interspersed with more uplifting, disco-infused cuts, creating a dynamic flow that felt both nostalgic and fresh.

Plessow’s ability to blend the old with the new created a set that was both familiar and innovative, keeping the Energy stage crowd dancing and smiling well into the night. It was a perfect example of how house and disco can still captivate and move a crowd, even in a setting dominated by more modern electronic genres.

Lovefest 2024’s diverse lineup extended beyond the Fire and Energy stages, offering unique musical experiences across three other distinctive stages.

Ph: Ervin Kovac

Raw Stage: The New Frontier of Hard Techno

The Raw stage at Lovefest 2024 made a powerful debut, leaving a lasting impression with its striking industrial design and reflective booth. Encased in a vast, geometric structure of scaffolding, the stage created a mesmerizing tunnel effect, drawing festival-goers into its pulsating heart. The metal framework, illuminated by bright lights, contrasted sharply with the natural surroundings, while a massive disco ball hung at the center, reflecting the energy of the crowd below.

Artists like Basswell and Lee Ann Roberts unleashed relentless hard techno that reverberated through the steel structure, amplifying the raw power of the music. The Raw stage also served as a platform for emerging local talents like Asarri b2b Deeda, proving that the future of hard techno is in capable hands.

Ph: Ervin Kovac

99 Stage: A Circus of Underground Sounds

The 99 stage, housed in a small circus tent, was an intimate space dedicated to cutting-edge house and techno music. The stage’s cozy, quirky atmosphere made it the perfect venue for boundary-pushing artists like Roman Flügel and Jaden Thompson. The 99 stage also highlighted fresh talent with a b2b2b set from Luka Cikic, Mekhu, and Machado, showcasing the next generation of electronic music innovators.

Ph: Aleksandra Pesic

H2O Stage: Daytime Vibes at the Olympic Pool

For those looking to keep the party going during the day, the H2O stage at the Olympic pool in Vrnjacka Banja was the place to be. This stage offered a sun-soaked oasis where festival-goers could dance and cool off simultaneously. The poolside vibes were elevated by sets from DJ Deep b2b Traumer and William Djoko, whose smooth, groove-laden selections perfectly matched the laid-back, yet energetic atmosphere.

Ph: Matija Borbelj

Lovefest 2024 was an exhilarating experience that left festival-goers buzzing long after the final beats faded away. Each stage brought something unique to the table, but it was the Fire, Energy, and Raw stages that truly defined this year’s edition. Whether you were there for the mainstage madness, the high-octane thrills, or the underground vibes, Lovefest had something to offer every electronic music lover. The festival’s seamless blend of incredible music, stunning visuals, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-attend for anyone looking to engulf themselves in the world of electronic music.

What truly sets this festival apart is its unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of community and connection. Every corner of the festival grounds buzzed with positive and inclusive energy, from the vibrant art installations to the interactive workshops and activities that brought people together in new and unexpected ways. Lovefest truly lived up to its name, it was a reminder that festivals are not just about the music—they’re about the people who come together to celebrate life, love, and the power of shared experiences. If 2024 is any indication, Lovefest’s flame is only burning brighter.