Halloween weekend is stereotypically one of the busiest weekends of the year for clubbers all over the country. 2016 was no different as Birmingham’s biggest Halloween party hit The Rainbow, Digbeth.

The Haunting, curated by two of Birmingham’s most popular party brands, 02:31 and Seedy  Sonics, saw an incredible immersive venue transformation, including the addition of a huge top-tent which essentially acted as a main stage, which I believe put the finishing touches on the evening feeling like a genuine party – not just ANOTHER Halloween night out. I was particularly impressed with the organisation of the event, as ticket buyers were moved in and out of the various venues on site quickly and effectively. Something that similar events do unfortunately fall short on.

Initially, the line-up didn’t really do much for me but with the emphasis on the occasion, it didn’t matter. Headlined by the likes of Wilkinson, DJ TARGET, Lee Walker and Sam Divine, there was still an element of electronic pedigree.

I was impressed with Toucán who played the 10pm slot in The Warehouse. A good mix of current weapons and lesser known material meant that ravers kept to the pace throughout the set. It was always nice to hear a fair bit of Patrick Topping dropped throughout the evening alongside Solardo’s new single ‘Tribesmen’, as the Manchester duo were playing only round the corner at Portal’s Halloween party.

However, I wasn’t that impressed with Sam Divine’s set. I expected a lot more from someone so experienced in her field. Those who attended may disagree with me, but I just didn’t rate it.

Again, Wilkinson showed why he’s now one of the biggest names in drum and bass as he and Ad-Apt performed a high octane set that appeased those watching on.

Matt Cooper
@mcooperwrites