BOARDMASTERS REVEAL NIA ARCHIVES IN 2026 STAGE SPLITS ANNOUNCEMENT

NIA ARCHIVES WILL DEBUT HER NEW LIVE SHOW AND SASHA KEABLE, GIRLS DON’T SYNC, THE GUEST LIST, JACK CULLEN, CLIFFORDS AND MORE JOIN THE BILL, WITH BOARDMASTERS ANNOUNCING ITS 2026 STAGE SPLITS.

Stage splits have been revealed for Boardmasters 2026, with Nia Archives joining the Saturday lineup ahead of Lily Allen’s headline performance on Saturday as she teases new music and a new live show that will debut at the festival. Sasha Keable, Girls Don’t Sync, Cliffords, The Guest List, Jack Cullen, The North, Cornwall Rock Choir and more are also among more names added to the festival bill.

They join an already stacked lineup featuring headliners Fatboy Slim, Lily Allen and Kasabian, as well as highly anticipated performances from The Kooks, Loyle Carner, Rudimental, REN, Tash Sultana, Joy Crookes, The Darkness, BRITs Critics’ Choice winner Jacob Alon, Rose Gray, Lambrini Girls, Window Kid, Example, Tinie Tempah, Hamdi, Ewan McVicar, 4AM Kru, Goldie LIVE, Saint Ludo, and more.

The newly revealed stage splits give festival-goers a first glimpse of how performances will be shaped across the weekend, set against the dramatic Cornish coastline with iconic clifftop views. With multiple arenas and curated spaces, attendees can plan their weekend around favourite acts, explore emerging talent and experience Boardmasters’ signature blend of music, surf and coastal culture.

One of the UK’s most exciting electronic voices, Nia Archives has quickly become a defining figure in jungle’s new wave. Back for 2026 with new music, her “emotional junglism” sound blends classic breakbeats with soulful vocals promising one of the standout performances of the weekend as she debuts a new live show at Boardmasters. Since self-releasing her debut single “Sober Feels” in 2020, she has earned critical acclaim with tracks including “Forbidden Feelingz”, “Mash Up the Dance”, “Baianá”, “Get Loose” and “Off Wiv Ya Headz”, alongside her 2024 album ‘Silence is Loud’ and 2025 release ‘Emotional Junglist’. She has also delivered official remixes for PinkPantheress and Fred Again.

A trailblazer both musically and culturally, Nia Archives helped prompt the MOBO Awards to introduce a dedicated electronic/dance category, becoming its first winner. She also made history with the first jungle album nominated for the Mercury Prize in 20 years, supported Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour, and became the first jungle artist to earn three BRIT Award nominations. Now, she brings a never-seen-before live show to the Cornish cliffs, soundtracking the festival with her signature sound and energy.

Beyond the music, festival-goers can experience the WSL Men’s, Women’s Pro surf competitions and the Junior Open at Fistral Beach, try yoga and wellness sessions with sea views, or dive into immersive creative experiences. Skate, comedy, late-night performances, talks and hands-on workshops complement the live music programme, offering a balanced mix of energy, exploration and connection by the sea. The elevated Cliff Top will house street food alongside craft bars and alcohol-free options, family programming and hands on art and creative sessions, with more to be revealed in the coming months.

With hundreds of performances across multiple stages, world-class surf competitions and a full programme of wellness, creative and community, Boardmasters 2026 promises a weekend where feel-good music meets vibrant coastal culture. From clifftop sunsets to daily activities and unforgettable performances, there’s something for everyone to explore, discover and enjoy. Tickets are now on general sale at boardmasters.com - secure your place at the edge of the world.

Tickets including weekend camping, day tickets and coach bundle options are now on sale at boardmasters.com. 

See you at the edge of the world!

D-EDGE CELEBRATES 26 YEARS WITH LANDMARK SÃO PAULO AND RIO DE JANEIRO EVENTS THIS APRIL

Carl Craig b2b Moodymann, KiNK, Daria Kolosova, Len Faki, Nastia, DJ Marky and more all play across two events in Rio and Sao Paolo 

The most influential club in Brazil, D-EDGE, marks its 26th anniversary with two major events across its São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro venues this April and reaffirms its status as a global benchmark for underground electronic music culture. 

Taking place on April 2nd at its São Paulo home and April 4th at its Rio de Janeiro outpost, the celebrations bring together world-class artists, residents and collaborators for a multi-layered programme that reflects the club’s legacy and forward-thinking vision.

Founded by Renato Ratier, D-EDGE has spent over two decades shaping Brazil’s nightlife landscape through consistently refined programming, boundary-pushing production and its influential label arm. Universally recognised for its innovative concept, the club was a pioneer in integrating LED technology and immersive light design into the dancefloor experience, creating a unique balance between sound, light and architecture. Since its move to São Paulo’s Barra Funda district in 2003, D-EDGE has played a central role in transforming the area into a hub for electronic music, while continuing to nurture both local and international talent.

D-EDGE São Paulo - April 2nd | A multi-room celebration of global club culture

The flagship anniversary event unfolds across multiple rooms, each reflecting a distinct strand of D-EDGE’s musical identity.

Pista Defected brings a house-driven focus with standout sets from Carl Craig b2b Moodymann, alongside KiNK, Beltran, Aline Rocha, Coppola, Nocapz and Ratier himself.

Pista Nave dives into deeper, driving techno territory with names including Len Faki, Daria Kolosova and Nastia, joined by Anderson Noise b2b DJ Murphy and more.

Elsewhere, the Indie Dance floor features Gui Boratto alongside a series of back-to-back sets, while Pista Marky & Friends celebrates drum & bass culture with DJ Marky and special guests including Makoto and L-Side. A dedicated D-EDGERS space rounds out the experience, spotlighting residents and long-time collaborators in an extended programme of back-to-back performances.

D-EDGE Rio - April 4th | A new chapter on the coast

Following the launch of its Rio de Janeiro cultural centre in late 2023, D-EDGE expands its anniversary into a second major event in the “Cidade Maravilhosa.” Bringing together generations and scenes on one dancefloor, the Rio edition features a headline b2b from Carl Craig and Moodymann, alongside KiNK, Ratier and key Brazilian names including Leo Janeiro, Simo (all night long) and Vivi Seixas. Designed as a fully immersive journey, the event reflects D-EDGE’s ethos of connection, storytelling and musical depth from first track to last.

Across both cities, the 26th anniversary stands as a testament to D-EDGE’s enduring influence. From its origins in Campo Grande to its global reputation today, the club has remained committed to pushing boundaries - musically, visually and culturally - while maintaining a clear identity rooted in quality and innovation. With two nights, two cities and a lineup that bridges heritage and future, D-EDGE once again defines what a modern club experience can be.

Lineup (São Paulo – April 2nd)

Pista Defected
Aline Rocha
Beltran
Carl Craig b2b Moodymann
Coppola
KiNK
Nocapz
Ratier

Pista Nave
Acid Asian
Anderson Noise b2b DJ Murphy
Bervon b2b HNGT
Daria Kolosova
Len Faki
Nastia
Opener DJ Contest: ARBR

Pista Indie Dance

Guss b2b Lion
Adria b2b Perote
Ed Lopes b2b Waltervelt
Gui Boratto
Mishell b2b Cour T
Yamagucci

Pista Marky & Friends
DJ Andy
DJ Marky
Fabz
L-Side
Makoto
Nastia

D-EDGERS
Adnan Sharif b2b N.A.S.S.I
Bapp b2b Spuri
Cactunes b2b Fel C
Diogo Accioly b2b Sheldon
DJ Mau Mau b2b Glaucia + Max
From House To Disco b2b Leo Janeiro

Junior C b2b Julio Torres
Marcio S b2b Rodrigo Ferrari
Ratier b2b Lu.Cian
Simas b2b Marian

Lineup (Rio – April 4th)
Carl Craig b2b Moodymann
Ratier
KiNK
Leo Janeiro
Simo Not Simon
Vivi Seixas

ARMIN VAN BUUREN AND APPLE MUSIC EXPLORE THE FUTURE OF DANCE MUSIC IN KEYNOTE PANEL AT WINTER MUSIC CONFERENCE IN MIAMI

On March 25, Dutch trance pioneer Armin van Buuren joined Apple Music’s Stephen Campbell (Global Head of Dance, Electronic & DJ Mixes Apple Music), and Tim Sweeney (Lead DJ & Curator, Dance & Electronic, Apple Music / Host of Beats In Space) for a conversation on the evolving role of DJ mixes, the resurgence of trance, and the ways immersive audio is reshaping music experiences. Armin reflected on his career, the enduring power of trance, and how Spatial Audio gives both DJs and listeners new ways to connect with music.

The discussion also explored the growing significance of properly licensed DJ mixes, and how Apple Music is preserving archival sets that might otherwise be lost, while curating discovery through experts embedded in global club culture. Armin shared insights from his recent projects, including his piano acoustic album and an exclusive classical DJ mix for Apple Music, demonstrating how new technology can expand creative expression across genres.

This conversation underscores Apple Music’s ongoing commitment to celebrating the artistry of DJs and producers, while pushing the boundaries of how audiences experience music in immersive, Spatial Audio formats.

Assets available here.

Armin van Buuren on AI

“At this Winter Music Conference, there have been lots of talks about it, and let’s face it: we’re entering a new era. Nobody can fully predict what it will mean. I know a few things, though. I read a book about AI because I was skeptical—and honestly, a little scared for my own job. Now, with all the tools online, you can prompt, ‘Make me a track like Armin van Buuren,’ and you get outcomes. I understand the fears; I share them with many of you.

But let’s look at the facts. One important thing to realize: the AI we’re using right now is the worst AI we will ever use. Think about that—it can only get better. Second, if you ignore it, you’ll fall behind. And third, it reminds me of the discussion back in the late ’80s, when Pro Tools and digital recording started replacing 24-track tape.”

Armin van Buuren on Trance “being cool again.”

“But, as they say, you should always stop at a peak—and that was a peak moment for me. By 2011, I seriously considered quitting, but I just felt the music. Trance isn’t a dirty word anymore—techno artists have embraced melodies again. For a long time, we were seen as the ‘EDM whatever,’ not the cool guys. And suddenly, it’s like an old sweater you’ve worn for 25 years becomes fashionable again.

I think it proves that if you believe in something, in a sound—whether it’s trance, techno, whatever touches your soul—stick with it. There were really hard times in trance; for a long time, it wasn’t the most popular genre. But when I hear a trance record, I feel it. It’s me. The music belongs to me; it’s closest to my heart. If I were to play anything else, it wouldn’t feel authentic or real.”

Armin van Buuren on how to be make it as a DJ in the industry

“If you make a track that other DJs play, boom—you’re on the map. There are tons of examples of that still happening. But also, do something no other DJ has done before. Study the DJs you admire, analyze their sets—that’s great—but don’t copy them. Find your uniqueness. Make something that makes people ask: why should I go out on a Friday night instead of staying home? Give them a reason to come to your show. If you can answer that in two or three sentences, you’ve got their attention. Now think about your set. If you’re an aspiring DJ, why would people pay to see you instead of DJ X, Y, or Z? There are so many DJs out there. But if you have a solid plan and a unique approach, dare to be different—that’s what makes you an artist.”

Armin van Buuren on mixing his Piano album in Spatial Audio

“I was really intrigued about mixing the piano acoustic album in Spatial Audio. And I never knew how difficult that was because I didn't really understand Spatial Audio. But now I get. I mean, what we're trying to do with dance music right now is we're trying to cram all these Serum Diva synths, everything through an LFO, like making space in a mix to breathe. But Spatial Audio simply gives you more headroom, so your ears will bleed less, and that sound will sound pretty good.”

Armin van Buuren on creating a classical DJ Mix for Apple Music

“I did something really crazy—a midlife thing—and created a piano album. When I showed Apple the Spatial Audio versions, they jumped on it. There are no drops, no snare rolls, nothing—just classical music, something I’ve always wanted to create. Then Apple asked me to make a classical DJ mix. I remember thinking, ‘Classical DJ mix? How the hell am I supposed to do that?’ So I went online and searched for high-quality files—no MP3s, just WAVs—and opened a Pandora’s box of beautiful classical music. I got completely absorbed in my favorite pieces, and thanks to you guys, it’s been received really well. I never would have done it without that push—it’s all classical music, mixing keys and flow, and it’s only on Apple Music. So thank you for the support.”

Stephen Campbell on what properly licensing DJ mixes unlocks

“When you ask what properly licensing mixes unlocks, the answer is everything. A huge part of what we do is going back into the archives to rescue recordings that were lost to digital obscurity—mixes that were incredibly important to my life growing up in London, like Fabric or The Box tapes. Working with Horse, may he rest in peace, from K7 to get those mixes onto Apple Music—that’s something that simply wasn’t possible before.”

Stephen Campbell on keeping discovery feeling intentional, not just endless

“We have experts around the world who are in the clubs. They are friends with DJs – they are a part of the culture. And I think that's the only way you can really understand what's going on, if you are actually a part of the culture as it manifests. So it's really on our editors around the world and the broader editorial team.”