Japan’s Labyrinth festival is keeping its entire line-up a secret

Much-loved techno festival The Labyrinth has taken secrecy to the next level and opted not to reveal its line-up before the festival’s 2018 edition.

With nothing but a few cryptic remarks about unnamed artists making either debuts or returns, the Japanese festival looks to be celebrating its tenth anniversary at Naeba -- the lush Niigata mountainscape it calls home -- in style this year, only revealing the line-up to festival goers when they arrive at the venue.

In a statement on their website, festival organisers Mindgames explain that “Mystery and surprise are key elements of artistic experiences, but expectations can sometimes get in the way. In the case of a festival, it’s easy to build up expectations via line-up announcements, online recordings, and other promotional activities.”

Having previously played host to the likes of Donato Dozzy and Shackleton, however, it’s safe to say that – in terms of any of the bookings that they’re currently keeping quiet - The Labyrinth is a safe pair of hands.

Tickets for The Labyrinth Festival 2018 are available now, directly from the Mindgames website.