Since its debut in 2000, MUTEK Montreal has become a flagship for live electronic music and audiovisual experimentation. The 26th edition (!), taking place from August 19th to 24th, will once again attract audiences who are genuinely curious and eager to discover new sounds and creative forms. An open-minded crowd of this type fosters an environment where artists feel encouraged to push boundaries and explore uncharted sensory territories.
This culture of curiosity inspires performers to deliver more genuine and daring sets, resulting in performances that are often raw, heartfelt, and inventive. The festival’s deep commitment to experimentation and diversity continues to shape the future of digital art and electronic music at a global scale
Let’s dive into six key musical performances that are very likely to become highlights of MUTEK’s 26th edition, which features notable world premieres:
Kevin Saunderson & Dantiez present e-Dancer
One of Detroit’s most influential musical pioneers, Kevin Saunderson, is back with e-Dancer for its first original album in over 25 years, a visceral, groove-driven collection of techno designed to ignite dancefloors around the world. Co-created with his son Dantiez, who also played a key role in crafting the album, the performance at MUTEK will showcase a powerful blend of heritage and innovation.
Dantiez joins Kevin on stage, bringing his fresh, energetic approach into a hypnotic, deeply emotional, and electrifying live experience. Together, they channel Detroit’s underground spirit through propulsive rhythms and deep basslines that honor the city’s legendary sound.
An unmissable journey through the roots and future of Detroit techno and house music.
The Bionic Harpist & Techno Para Dos — fran·gere
For the first time, MUTEK will transform Lafontaine Park’s Théâtre de Verdure into an outdoor playground of sonic exploration. This free event features the world premiere of fran·gere, a collaboration between The Bionic Harpist and Techno Para Dos.
Alex Tibbitts, a pioneering electroacoustic artist from Montreal, and Raúl Villamil, an experimental sound designer from Mexico, merge ancient harp and modular synthesis into a unique contemplative soundscape. This spontaneous live exchange offers a space where natural sounds and digital textures intertwine, opening expansive sonic horizons.
LOIDIS
Loidis, the project of the Kansas raised Brian Leeds, blends minimal techno, dub textures, and microhouse to create intimate, reflective soundscapes. Known for his work as Huerco S. and Pendant, Leeds crafts hypnotic and emotionally resonant music. His recent double album One Day received praise for saturated melodies and tactile rhythms.
This show marks the Canadian premiere of his latest live performance, offering a rare chance to experience Loidis’ fragile, slow-burning, sensual, dreamlike universe in an immersive setting.
NICOLAS CRUZ
We could easily dedicate an entire article to Nicola Cruz’s impact on this festival, but we’ll try to keep it short (ish).
The Ecuadorian electronic musician is known for constantly reinventing himself. Recently, Cruz’s sets have become more abstract and immersive, filled with field recordings, modular textures, and layered soundscapes. Each performance feels like a spontaneous exchange, as he explores new sonorities and rhythms with a careful, almost conversational approach.
His recent collaboration with machìna, called Kaiwa, exemplifies this creative spirit. Premiering at MUTEK’s Nocturne series, The project is a dialogue between two distinct voices, with Cruz’s raw analog dubby sounds & rythms blending seamlessly with machìna’s crystalline vocals and jazz-inspired improvisations. Kaiwa’s live performance is a dynamic and unpredictable fusion that pushes musical boundaries while inspiring movement and reflection
Alongside Kaiwa, Nicolas Cruz will perform two more sets during the festival, a DJ set at Expérience 1 and a live performance at Metropolis 2.
And if that was not enough (!), Cruz and machìna will also lead a music production and creative process workshop at DASA
Where and where?
CASSY
After more than two decades as a dj resident at some of the world’s most iconic clubs, including Panorama Bar and DC-10, Cassy’s unwavering passion for music and her deep commitment to the sounds that fuel club culture have sparked a new creative chapter. She emerges more authentic and invigorated than ever before.
For her closing performance at Metropolis 2, Cassy promises a powerful and emotional journey. Renowned for her ability to forge an intimate connection with the dancefloor, she will guide the crowd through a raw, immersive experience rooted in the timeless soul of house music. Expect a set brimming with deep grooves, heartfelt melodies, and an energy that leaves dancers feeling inspired and transformed.
PRIORI
Francis Latreille, the Quebecois maestro and studio wizard, crafts intricate soundscapes that seamlessly blend organic and digital elements. His performances and recent album This but More showcase his mastery in creating immersive, contemplative worlds. Known for pushing sonic boundaries, Priori’s sets are a journey through detailed textures and hypnotic patterns.
In addition to being a world-class producer, he is also a highly impressive selector and DJ who knows how to create memorable dancefloor moments. Prepare for trippy, bouncy, dubby grooves and more during his genre defying performance at Piknic Électronik on the festival’s closing day.
A Future Built on Creativity and Responsibility
MUTEK offers a program crafted to listen, see, and experience differently. Every year, it offers a rare chance to experience the future of digital creativity, exploring new ways to see and hear the world around us. And beyond all the innovation, MUTEK is dedicated to doing things responsibly. Through efforts to reduce its environmental impact and support local communities, and the festival shows how art and technology can lead the way toward a more sustainable future. Join us at Mutek to experience these groundbreaking performances and be part of a community pushing the boundaries of digital creativity.
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