Founded in 2000 when the rave era was at its peak, Mutek hits the festival scene once again this week to celebrate the more alternative side of electronic music.

Booking hot commodities like Nicholas Jaar this year, the festival works to pay homage to the past while fixing eyes firmly on the future. Jaar is joined by a diverse line-up ranging from techno legend Jeff Mills and acid house icon A Guy Called Gerald to Juno-winning avant-garde electronic artist Tim Hecker on a church organ and a rare “live soundtracking” set from dubstep pioneer (and Hyperdub label boss) Kode9.

“The trick to it is that it’s a festival, not just a lineup,” says Mutek programmer Patti Schmidt. “The context offers something special from a one-off show or one-off party…There’s the size of the venues and intimacy and the fact the artists are also circulating at the festival.”

Mutek is celebrating its 13th anniversary this year in Montreal from May 30 – June 3. To read the full article, go to Spinner.com.