Wire is a large-scale indoor techno dance event with over ten years of history. Organized by renowned Japanese composer and music producer Takkyu Ishino, the concept behind enjoying yourself at Wire is simple – just dance. The event takes place in Yokohama Arena – a venue that’s well known for its acoustics – and because it’s indoors, there’s no need to fret about the weather. However, if you're hoping for a mix of different music genres then you’ll be sorely disappointed, because Wire maintains a strict techno music policy. On the other hand, if you're a techno fan, then you’re in for a treat, because Wire offers a chance to experience a broad range of techno music played by a first-rate line up of performers – ranging from some of the latest names in techno to some of the most influential and seasoned artists in the industry. Since it first began back in 1999, Wire has stayed true to its ‘techno only’ policy –one of the reasons why it’s become such a popular and well-respected techno event.
Performing at this year’s Wire are prominent techno artists from across the globe. Jeff Mills is scheduled to perform live at the event as the closing act on the main floor. Originally a radio DJ in Detroit during the 80s, Jeff soon became known for his technical brilliance under the pseudonym ‘The Wizard’, and went on to play an important role in developing Detroit’s techno music scene during the early 90s. Now a leading figure in techno with an unconventional DJ mix style which still retains the essence of the techniques he developed as The Wizard, his forté is hard minimal techno. As the grand finale at this year’s Wire, his performance is certain to be one that will leave techno fans breathless.
Other particularly well-known artists scheduled to play at this year’s event include an artist whom fans will recognize through his techno and tech-house-oriented sets, Radio Slave (scheduled to play on the main floor directly before Jeff Mills), Roman Flügel from Germany, Ellen Allien, Dominik Eulberg, Frank Müller, Hell, Monika Kruse and Gregor Tresher. Plus 2000 And One, a veteran Amsterdam techno DJ who gave a highly- anticipated and very well received performance at last year’s event, and
a spectacular artist from Venice named Hard Ton – a man with a huge build, a shaven head and a beard, who appears on stage dressed in bondage gear, sings with an unbelievably high falsetto voice and never fails to give what can only be described as a truly unforgettable electro disco performance with a hell of an impact.
Furthermore, in addition to various high profile techno acts from overseas, the line-up at Wire also boasts a number of first-rate Japanese techno acts, including Ken Ishii, Fumiya Tanaka, DJ Tasaka and of course, the event’s leading organizer himself – Takkyu Ishino – who will be playing a number of tracks from his first new album in six years, ‘Cruise’. Another album well worth a mention is the event’s official compilation album, entitled ‘Wire 10 Compilation’, which includes tracks by all of this year’s performers – perfect for anyone looking to familiarize themselves with this year’s various artists before they attend, or for anyone who simply wants to hear some of what this incredible line-up of techno artists have to offer.
No outdoor clothing or equipment required – all you need bring along is an interest in techno.