Upclose, Awakenings’ most intimate festival, strips everything back to its core, crafting a space where music dictates the experience. After a sold-out first edition that set a new standard for underground festivals, Upclose 2025 returns, delving deeper into techno’s progressive and boundary-pushing sounds. This year’s lineup reflects that ethos, balancing precision and spontaneity. From hypnotic deep cuts to high-intensity peak-time sets, the curation is designed for those who value the craft of DJing and live performance. Upclose 2025 brings together a mix of underground staples, forward-thinking collaborations, and rare back-to-back sets that push artists outside their usual approach.

Donato Dozzy and Jane Fitz join forces for the first time, blending deep, rolling rhythms with an atmospheric touch. Jeff Mills returns with his signature futurism, while KI/KI, known for her high-energy selections, is set to take the crowd on an unpredictable ride. Ben Klock and Ignez merge Berlin’s weighty groove with Dutch minimalism, and Marrøn joins Rødhåd for a deep, driving exploration of techno’s more textured side.

Live performances take a central role this year. 999999999, known for their relentless acid sound, bring a special set that’s expected to push intensity levels to the limit. Stigmata revives early 2000s techno with a sharp, industrial edge, while Luigi Tozzi delivers his signature hypnotic soundscapes. Atsuo the Pineapple Donkey makes his Dutch debut with a hardware-driven set full of improvisation. Traumer, known for his sleek minimalism, presents an exclusive live performance, and Cristian Varela and Marco Bailey face off in a high-intensity six-deck battle.