It's that time of year again, folks. One of Los Angeles' most thriving festivals HARD Summer is making its triumphant return, but at a new venue. Previously used for Day of the Dead, HARD will be at the amazing Pomona Fairplex. I am personally ecstatic for this venue since Whittier Narrows was literally a dust bowl, and I had zero issues with the Fairplex at DOTD. But anyway, let's cut to the chase.

HARD Summer is not your typical festival. Their ability to book a span of acts ranging from hip-hop to dubstep and the deepest of house music gives them a unique quality that you can't find anywhere else. I've chosen 5 tracks from artists that I feel like everybody should check out to expand their musical horizons. Some I have not seen myself, so I invite you all to dive into something new with us and create a better festival experience! Here we go...

1. Lido - I Love You

Lido (AKA Trippy Turtle) is someone whose music we've always enjoyed sharing here on Daily Beat. Ever since he's started to do live shows I knew that they would be just as unique as his style of trap. Upon reading about his set at CRSSD Festival back in February, it became apparent that Lido was on my list of acts to see as soon as possible. His set will be at the Purple Stage on Saturday, do not miss it!

2. Destructo - Nobody Else (Sharam Jey Remix)

This next one here is a double feature. HARD head honcho Gary Richards, more commonly known by his stage name Destructo has become an American G-House icon, releasing tunes with YG, Problem, and Ty Dolla $ign (as you can see on this track). Along with a fall tour coming up, it only made sense to book himself at the festival he made. I mean, wouldn't you do the same? Anyway, this particular remix is brought to you by Sharam Jey, another prominent house producer that will be performing at the festival. Destructo and Sharam Jey will both be at the Pink Stage Saturday.

3. Slow Magic - Corvette Cassette

The HARDer Stage this Sunday is about to receive a special visit from none other than your imaginary friend, Slow Magic. This DJ and live performer conceals his identity with a colorful wolf mask, but delivers a sound that creates a portal into the dream world. I have recently developed a strong appreciation for the more vibe-y and less rage-y type of music, and Slow Magic fits perfectly into that category. I'm excited to see how the stage production will be with his set as well!

4. Mr. Oizo - Machyne

Now for something on the complete opposite vibe, an intense electro track by French producer Mr. Oizo. I actually discovered Mr. Oizo back at HARD Summer 2013 (my first festival ever), where he played at the Ed Banger Records stage on Sunday night. What made his set stick out was that he was actually using CD's during his set, something my newly exposed mind thought was an abandoned art form. Releasing music on Ed Banger as well as Flying Lotus' label Brainfeeder, his edgy yet playful vibe makes him a versatile producer. His sound includes but is not limited to techno, house, and trap. Check out his set on Sunday at the Green Stage!

5. Ratatat - Nightclub Amnesia

Ratatat is another notable act that I've just recently come across, at Coachella to be specific. This track off of their newest album Magnifique is a club banger with that signature Ratatat sound. Their simple beats, funky bass lines, and catchy guitar riffs combined will be sure to have you dancing like this:

These guys will be closing out the HARDer stage on Sunday, and probably won't be on another big festival lineup for a long while. So you can miss out on Jack Ü for once...trust me on this.

Stay tuned for more exclusive coverage from HARD Summer, and have a fun and safe weekend!

Cover by Voodoo Bownz