Bringing an inspired DJ set to the Pacific Northwest’s Deschutes County Fairgrounds, indie-electronic favorites Passion Pit joined Disclosure, Sylvan Esso, TroyBoi, Big Gigantic, Chromeo (DJ Set) and others for the storied Cascade Equinox festival. Passion Pit front man Michael Angelakos also joined up with hyperpop/dubstep artist Tracey Brakes for an epic b2b during the set.

With its stunning high elevation surroundings as the backdrop, Cascade Equinox featured a wide range of offerings, including a “vendor marketplace, kids zones, a roller rink, workshops, culinary commons, a healing sanctuary, yoga, beer and wine tastings, interactive art installations, and live art.” To add to the mix, live acts included High Step Society, Moon Hooch, New Constellations, Pink Talking Fish, and White Denim.

Special thanks to Jennifer “Sage” Hylwa and Jason Meyers for the images.

How does Passion Pit’s DJ set at Cascade Equinox challenge or expand upon audience expectations of the band’s typical performance style?

Passion Pit’s Rare DJ Set captures the Essence of Cascade Equinox Through a Photo Essay

The Unexpected setlist & Atmosphere

Passion Pit, known for their vibrant synth-pop and Michael Angelakos’ distinctive vocals, surprised fans with a rare DJ set at the Cascade equinox festival on September 22nd, 2025. this wasn’t a typical concert; it was an immersive experience, a curated sonic journey through the band’s discography and influences, reimagined for the dance floor. The setlist, a closely guarded secret beforehand, leaned heavily into remixes, extended versions, and B-sides, offering a fresh viewpoint on familiar tracks.

Attendees described the atmosphere as electric. the Cascade Equinox festival, renowned for its stunning visual displays and focus on electronic music and indie dance, provided the perfect backdrop. The set wasn’t about performing hits; it was about deconstructing and rebuilding them, creating a unique energy that resonated with the crowd. Key elements included:

* Extended Instrumental Breaks: Tracks like “Sleepyhead” and “Take a Walk” were stripped down to their core synth elements, allowing for extended instrumental breaks perfect for dancing.

* Genre Blending: Angelakos seamlessly blended Passion Pit’s signature sound with elements of house, techno, and even ambient electronica.

* Visual Synchronization: The DJ set was perfectly synchronized with the festival’s visual projections, creating a truly immersive experience.

Decoding the Musical Choices: Influences & Inspirations

The set wasn’t simply random selections. A closer look reveals a clear narrative woven through the musical choices, hinting at the influences that shaped Passion Pit’s sound.

Early Influences: 80s Synth-Pop & New Wave

Angelakos has frequently cited artists like New Order, Depeche Mode, and The cure as formative influences. These echoes were present in the set through the inclusion of remixes that incorporated classic synth sounds and driving basslines. The use of gated reverb and atmospheric pads paid homage to the 80s new wave aesthetic.

The Rise of Indie Dance & Nu-Disco

The set also showcased a clear appreciation for the indie dance and nu-disco movements. Tracks from artists like Justice, LCD Soundsystem, and Hot Chip were subtly woven into the mix, demonstrating a shared sensibility for energetic rhythms and melodic hooks. This connection highlights Passion Pit’s place within the broader landscape of contemporary electronic music.

Exploring B-Sides & rarities: A Fan’s Delight

Perhaps the most appreciated aspect of the set was the inclusion of rare B-sides and unreleased material. These tracks, often unavailable on streaming platforms, offered a glimpse into the band’s creative process and provided a special treat for longtime fans. This curated selection demonstrated a deep respect for the band’s own history and a willingness to share hidden gems with their audience.

Photo Essay: Moments from Cascade Equinox

(Note: As this is a text-only response, I will describe the types of photos that would be included in a photo essay.On archyde.com, these would be actual images.)

* Wide Shot of the Stage: Capturing the scale of the Cascade Equinox setup,with Passion Pit (michael Angelakos) visible at the DJ booth,bathed in vibrant light.

* Crowd Reaction Shots: Focusing on the energy of the crowd, showcasing people dancing, smiling, and interacting with the music.

* Close-up of Michael Angelakos: Capturing his focus and engagement as he mixes tracks, highlighting his passion for the music.

* Visual Projections: Images showcasing the stunning visual displays synchronized with the music, emphasizing the immersive nature of the experience.

* Detail Shots: Focusing on elements like the DJ equipment, lighting rigs, and the festival’s overall aesthetic.

* Candid Moments: Capturing spontaneous interactions between fans and the atmosphere of camaraderie.

The Impact & future Possibilities

Passion Pit’s DJ set at Cascade Equinox wasn’t just a one-off performance; it felt like a statement. It demonstrated the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment, pushing the boundaries of their established sound.

* Potential for Future DJ Sets: The overwhelmingly positive response to the set suggests a potential for more DJ performances in the future.

* Influence on Future productions: The techniques and sounds explored in the set could influence Passion Pit’s future studio productions.

* Strengthening Fan Engagement: The set fostered a deeper connection with fans, offering a unique and intimate experience.

The event has sparked conversations online, with fans sharing their experiences and requesting more sets like this. The hashtag #PassionPitEquinox trended on social media for several days following the festival, demonstrating the widespread impact of the performance.this rare glimpse into Angelakos’ musical influences and DJing skills has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the electronic music community.