Simply put, Wire is the most awesome techno event in Japan.
Twelve hours are filled with sets by 13 DJs, 11 live performances and a constantly metamorphosing video show at Yokohama Arena, making Wire something of a Mecca for the nation's techno-lovers — about 15,000 of whose gyrating bodies will Saturday create a sea of electrified and reverberating energy.
For the past nine years, technoite youths have made their pilgrimage to the event, which hosts techno's biggest international superstars — with past DJs including Jeff Mills, Richie Hawtin and Ellen Allien to name a few — and this year is no exception.
"Dave Clarke is finally appearing at Wire," organizer Kaichiro Shirai says of the legendary hard techno DJ. "This year we also have lots of new DJs from around the world."
Among several world-renowned artists on the night's agenda are bumpin' funky minimal DJ Jesse Rose from London, making his Japan debut; DJ Koze of Hamburg, blending dreamspace vocals and clicky melodies; and Dero, bringing his "electrosamba" sounds of Latin percussion all the way from Buenos Aires.
Local talent includes Okinawan techno duo Ryukyudisko, beatbox trio Afra & Incredible Beatbox Band and a live set by veteran DJ Ken Ishii.
"There is no other event like ours in Japan," Shirai says. "Since 1999 our event has been pure techno. No other music has appeared at this event, which makes it authentic. It's the equivalent to other famous parties like Mayday in Germany.
"The VJs digitally control lights to make different scenes throughout the night, the soundsystems are totally blasting and the euphoric crowd never stops dancing."
Yokohama Arena is a 5-minute walk from Shin-Yokohama Station. Tickets cost ¥10,500 in advance. See www.wire07.com for more ticket and event information.
