(by Dawn Reed) "Say hello to the future." Five years after their first release, Aussie electro duo Empire of the Sun are about to put out their second LP Ice on the Dune in July and have just released this video for the first single "Alive."  Starting this May, they will be on the world-wide Fest circuit (and at the moment that's all it looks like as far as touring for this album. <Bummer!!! because I can't stand festivals.>)

In typical EOTS fashion, this video is full of gorgeous visuals of elaborate costumes and a range of landscapes combined with sci-fi atmospheric effects. Prepare yourself for the feel good chant of the summer in this chorus "Loving every minute cause you make me feel so alive."

Sydney Austrailia's synth duo The Presets are out on tour right now in support of their latest album Pacifica. Not to mention long awaited! Their last album Apocalypso went #1 via ARIA (Australian Recording Industry Association) back in 2008 and garnered them the first electronic act to win Album of the Year.  Their 2005 debut Beams put them on the worldwide tour circuit, and I was lucky enough to catch them back then.  These guys definitely get crowds going- not a dry forehead in the house.  And joining them on this part of the tour is Classixx!!  (Edit- Dragonette is not part of this date in the tour as mentioned earlier this week on the blog.)

DC's awesome 9:30 Club wants to make sure you Scene Trekkers don't miss out on this tour as they come to DC on Sat. May 4, so they are giving away 2 free passes!  All you have to do is email us by 3 PM on 4/23 and tell us your favorite Presets or Classixx song.  Please include your first and last name for guest list requirements. The winner will be emailed back. Don't want to risk missing out? There is still time to get tix right here.

(by Dawn Reed) Get ready to trip out on some Spanish folktronica with this unexpected use of goddess Kali-like effects and kaleidoscoped eyes video for Crystal Fighters first single "Separator" from their next release Cave Rave due out May 27. Breathe. Currently based out of London England, Crystal Fighters wrote this track whilst in the Basque hills of Spain and France. The tie to nature and the universe is abundant not only in the lyrics, but the video- so click play and become a part of the sounds all around you.   

Crystal Fighters will begin a world tour in May, just in time for the fest circuit, and will stay on the road til practically the end of 2013! Check here for dates.