Under the vast expanse of Scottsdale’s star-studded sky, an otherworldly phenomenon descended upon Westworld. It wasn’t a cosmic event or a desert hallucination, but the return of Super Unnatural 2024: a house music festival that transcended reality and transported attendees into a realm of pure euphoria.
On November 1st and 2nd, the ordinary faded into oblivion as the festival emerged from the shadows of its successful debut in 2023. It leveled up in every conceivable way.
Day one greeted us with a sun that blazed like a spotlight, illuminating the anticipation etched on every face. The atmosphere crackled with energy as the gates swung open, unveiling a soundscape that promised to be anything but ordinary.
Dombresky took to the stage, his beats weaving an intricate tapestry that ensnared the senses. Each rhythm was a heartbeat, syncing the crowd into a singular pulse. His performance was more than a set—it was a journey through sound that laid the groundwork for the night.
Night 1
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Eric Prydz emerged like a maestro commanding an orchestra of electrons. His energetic and upbeat performance was a masterclass in immersion, each track building upon the last in a crescendo that left the crowd breathless. The visuals hypnotized onlookers with a kaleidoscope of light that danced in tandem with the music. Chris Lake rounded out the evening, his set a fusion of fresh tracks and fan favorites that kept the momentum surging forward.
The upgraded sound system didn’t just deliver music — it unleashed a tidal wave of bass that coursed through our veins. The vibrations were tangible, a physical force that connected everyone in an unspoken bond. The night didn’t end when the main stages dimmed; the after-party at Maya Dayclub with Chris Lake opened a new chapter, offering a fresh set that ignited a renewed fervor for what lay ahead.
Night 2
Night two arrived with a twist: A gentle rain kissed the desert, a rare and unexpected surprised guest. But Super Unnatural was prepared. The festival transformed the potential dampener into an element of enchantment, as the dome sheltered us beneath a canopy of sound and light. The rain became a backdrop, its rhythm complementing the beats that resonated within.
The evening’s lineup was a testament to the festival organizers’ prowess in curating an unforgettable experience. Fatboy Slim, a legend whose influence spans generations, graced the stage with a set that was both nostalgic and exhilarating. His humorous visuals and iconic remixes reignited the spark in every soul present.
But the night’s crown jewel was the back-to-back set from Mochakk and The Martinez Brothers. It was my first encounter with both, and they shattered every expectation. Their chemistry was electric, a seamless fusion that culminated in the drop of “Rizzla.” The crowd erupted in a collective surge of energy as we found ourselves surrounded by friends old and new, all singing and dancing in unison.
Patrick Topping and Lilly Palmer added their unique flavors to the mix, each delivering performances that were as dynamic as they were captivating. The stage setup itself was a marvel. The expansion from last year was evident. A grand VIP platform offered panoramic views, while performers in elaborate, ethereal costumes danced along a central walkway, blurring the lines between spectacle and immersion.
he festival’s layout was a breath of fresh air, spacious and thoughtfully organized. There was room to dance with abandon, to lose oneself in the music without feeling overwhelmed. Vendors lined the paths, offering everything from artisanal crafts to mouthwatering delicacies, turning the grounds into a bustling bazaar that catered to every whim.
Halloween’s spirit lingered, adding a layer of mystique. Attendees donned costumes that ranged from the beautifully intricate to the wildly imaginative. It was a celebration of creativity and self-expression, turning the festival into a living canvas painted with the hues of individuality.
But beyond the music, the lights, and the costumes, what truly set Super Unnatural apart was the sense of community. The love for house music was a unifying force, drawing people from all walks of life into a shared experience that felt intimate despite the crowd’s magnitude.
Serendipitous encounters were the norm, friends lost and found in the throng, new connections forged over shared moments of bliss. There was magic in the spontaneity, in the random hugs and high-fives, in the collective realization that we were part of something extraordinary.
As the final notes echoed into the night and the festival drew to a close, there was a lingering sensation that we had all been part of a transformational experience. Super Unnatural 2024 didn’t just raise the bar — it redefined it. The fusion of upgraded sound, mesmerizing visuals, and standout performances created an atmosphere that was both otherworldly and welcoming.
For those who have yet to step into this enchanted world, consider this your invitation. Super Unnatural isn’t just a festival; it’s a pilgrimage for the soul, a place where music transcends boundaries and strangers become family. Mark your calendars for next year, because this is an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your heart and beckon you back time and time again.
Photos by Alexander Peet
