The dj line up is great, in quality. But we (I, Simon) have failed dismally in staying true to the goal of having a truly diverse representation of artists. This line up is heavily white male skewed. So no offence but it would be great if more of my dj friends were not white, not men, and not straight. Clearly this says something about me and invites further contemplation.

 

It’s a sign of the times, that this is a key issue in 2020. When I started putting on events 25 years ago, it didn’t rate a mention. Even 3 years ago it was only just being understood as an issue.

 

Now we see diversity in electronic music as being reflective of the much broader politics of patriarchy, colonialism and capitalist neo-liberalism. These issues get to the heart of the matter when it comes to the establishment of ecological consciousness. Which is what this party is all about. So in saying I’ve failed to create a truly diverse artist line up, I’m saying, I feel I’ve really fucked up.

 

That said, the assembly of artists for Dharma and Simon Presents events has always privileged friendship over all else, so in that regard, this line up is an accurate reflection of, well, our friendship group. Hmmm, still problematic.

 

There are some new additions: Firas, El Scorcho, Angela, Jedidiah, Acid Smakt. As always each year we like to have some new faces and so, the friendship circle widens. Welcome!

 

As I write this there is some wriggle room in the line up for a couple more inclusions. If you or someone you know would love to play and will add some depth to our diversity spectrum, please email us at: dharma_and_simon@simonslieker.com.