There was not an empty space in sight during Martin Solveig’s Saturday set at the popular NYC nightspot, Flash Factory. Solveig once again proved why he continues to reign as one of electronic music’s most sought-after club DJs.
A couple of years ago Martin Solveig carved himself into the house DJ hall of fame with his 2008 album, C’est La Vie. If you grew up in Europe – as I did – you’ll surely recall that his single featuring Dragonette, “Boys & Girls” took over radio stations everywhere, as well as paved the way for his impending international success. In 2010, he adopted a peculiar aesthetic – a sporty headband and athletic attire – to promote his newest single “Hello”. This marks the point preceding the moment that Solveig would catapult into extraordinary fame and earn a spot alongside David Guetta, Laurent Garnier, and Bob Sinclair as France’s most respected producers of all time.
As soon as Flash Factory announced that it would be hosting the prolific Solveig, fans were quick to purchase their tickets in order to secure a spot for what they knew would be an outstanding event. Excitement levels reached a peak once it was announced that frequenting Flash – and extremely talented – DJ, Riton, would be opening for his French ami. I knew things were going to get freaky as soon as I arrived at the venue. The line to get into coiled around the block with wide-eyed house music lovers, eager to get inside and dance their Saturday night away. I overheard multiple guests voicing their excitement to hear Solveig play his latest crowd-pleaser – his 2015 collaboration with GTA, “Intoxicated”. I was far more keen on seeing how Mr. Solveig would blend his original disco sound with modern dance and pop hits.
I must say I’ve never seen Flash Factory as crowded as it was on Saturday night. People were standing on every sofa, platform (including other attendee’s shoulders), and table to cop a good view of Solveig working his magic. There was not one disappointed face in sight as he spewed out a wonderfully crafted mix composed of Martin’s classics, early 2000s hits, a couple of hip-hop bangers, and – of course – critically acclaimed house gems. He took me by surprise when he dropped “Intoxicated”, aka the track people were seemingly most excited to hear, within the first 45 minutes of his set. A bizarre but respectable move because it weeded out those who had no interest in seeing what else he would bring to the table. He kept the crowd engaged and moving, taking unexpected musical twists and turns throughout the evening. A distinct highlight was definitely when he strategically blended his infamous record “The Night Out” with the insane drop in Boys Noize’s “2 Live”. Moments like these showed why the name Martin Solveig has become synonymous with words like ‘legend’, ‘epic’, and ‘intoxicating’.
