So you survived SXSW, now rest up for Nocturnal Festival II.

I'm fully aware that I promised to keep an updated feed of SXSW events, but between attending the MTVu Woodies Awards, meeting Hanson at the Grammy Block Party and jamming out to De La Soul at the Red Bull Party, life was pretty hectic.

Although SXSW was great, I'm glad it's over. For me, it's time to relax and prepare for Nocturnal Festival: Texas 2011.

Nocturnal Festival is the ultimate, two-day electronica festival presented by V Productions TX! and Los Angeles-based Insomniac. It will take place at the grassy fields of Apache Pass in Rockdale, Texas on April 29 and 30.

Insomniac has been shaking hips in California since 1993, but it wasn't until the weekend of Labor Day 2010 that Nocturnal hit Texas. I happened to attend, and let me be the first to say, "You had to be there."

This happens to be a very accurate representation of the first Nocturnal festival in Texas: one huge dance party filled with heavy bass and fast beats.

This year, Nocturnal provides a promising lineup with an array of electronica giants, spanning many sub-genres. I'll introduce you to some of the acts I am anticipating...

Dubstep genius, Bassnectar (AKA Lorin Ashton), will make his second appearance at the festival. Ashton defines the concept of "bass in your face." If you're not a fan of dubstep, then you probably will become one after listening to a few (or even just one) of his masterpieces. In case you haven't noticed, I'm a huge fan. You can even read me gush on about his last EP here.

Bassnectar - Magical World feat. Nelly Furtado (FREE DOWNLOAD) by Bassnectar

Also scheduled to perform is Austin's own Ghostland Observatory. This rock/funk/electro duo consists of vocalist/guitarist, Aaron Behrens and producer/beats-machine, Thomas turner. Ghostland is primarily known for their outstanding live performances (complete with a mind-blowing light show, of course).

As for the dance realm, I am ecstatic to see Kaskade. Ryan Raddon creates upbeat, dreamy tracks that take house fans to another world.


Deadmau5 & Kaskade - I Remember ( Original Extended Mix ) by Noches Tracks

So go ahead - buy your tickets, plan your carpool strategy and get ready for round two of the best dance party of your life.