November 18th 2023

In the recent landscape of nostalgia-infused package festivals, where the allure of bygone eras and iconic genres is meticulously curated, Darker Waves emerged as a distinctive player in the summer concert scene. Much like its predecessor Cruel World, Darker Waves transported music enthusiasts into the heart of a new wave and goth utopia just beyond the reaches of LA.

The festival’s inaugural lineup, echoing the sentiments of Cruel World’s original outing, read like a who’s who of ’80s music royalty, boasting names such as OMD, the Human League, the Psychedelic Furs, Soft Cell, Devo, Echo & The Bunnymen, the B-52s, and the headlining juggernauts, New Order and Tears For Fears.

From the onset, Darker Waves proved itself a force to be reckoned with. As the gates swung open, the festival grounds, adorned with charming ’80s aesthetics, immediately drew in a diverse crowd. Amongst suburban grandparents and SoCal goths, the air buzzed with anticipation. A quirky tent housing vintage arcade games added a nostalgic touch, accentuating the festival’s unique charm.

Navigating the festival’s bustling schedule required strategic planning, given the relentless pace and packed lineup. The clash of titans was unavoidable, with OMD competing against X, Devo facing off with the Cardigans, Psychedelic Furs challenging Echo & The Bunnymen, and the B-52s squaring up against the Human League.

The early hours unfolded with a sense of urgency, with daytime acts like Drab Majesty kicking off a musical journey that would span a multitude of sounds. The main stages, strategically positioned a short walk apart on the sandy shores, witnessed a seamless five-minute transition between acts, maintaining a relentless tempo that mirrored the festival’s spirit.

One of the standout performances of the afternoon came from Devo, a band defying the passage of time with an overwhelming energy that left the competition in the dust. Tracks like “Uncontrollable Urge” and “Mongoloid” felt like controlled chaos, resonating with a crowd that reveled in the band’s timeless eccentricity.

As the festival progressed, Psychedelic Furs’ delayed entrance, contrasted with the prompt efficiency of Darker Waves, only heightened the sense of anticipation. However, once unleashed, hits like “Heaven” and “The Ghost In You” flowed seamlessly, leaving an indelible mark.

The evening unfolded with grandeur as New Order took the stage, dispelling any reservations about their live performance. With a setlist featuring classics like “Bizarre Love Triangle” and “Temptation,” the band exuded a newfound verve that enraptured the jubilant beachfront audience.

Closing the night, Tears For Fears continued the sonic journey with a majestic set that seamlessly blended new material with classic hits. The duo’s finesse in commanding the stage, coupled with timeless tracks like “Shout” and “Head Over Heels,” brought Darker Waves’ inaugural year to a triumphant close.

Amidst the vibrations of satisfied festival-goers, a realization dawned — Darker Waves had not merely succeeded as a one-time event but had carved a niche in the realm of nostalgia-driven festivals. As the echoes of “Shout” lingered, a diverse community of music lovers strolled along the beach, having shared in a day-long celebration of their cherished ’80s classics.