
⚜️ Opening Area 34’s Abduction mini-festival, KRADO reflects on setting the tone for one of Mississippi EDM’s biggest nights — balancing heavy dubstep energy with community connection and momentum. ⚜️
We caught up with KRADO (krado_official) ahead of his set to talk about evolution, responsibility, and what it means to help launch one of Mississippi EDM’s most ambitious events to date.
Area 34’s Abduction is more than a lineup, it’s a statement for Mississippi’s growing electronic scene. With immersive production, a stacked roster, and serious regional momentum, the night begins long before the headliners take control.
It begins with the openers.
NOLA EDM: For those discovering you through Abduction — who is KRADO?
Tell us about your background, how this project evolved, and where your sound lives within heavier bass music.
KRADO: Hi I’m NIck. I picked up a dj board around 8 years ago. Originally Krado was a duo under bass disciples with my best friend Richie. Today Krado is a solo project. Krado means God of War so your typically getting heavier styles of music.
NOLA EDM: Abduction sets a high-intensity tone from the moment doors open. As an opening artist, how are you thinking about setting the energy for the night while still leaving room for what’s to come?
KRADO: If you’ve been to a KRADO set you’d know that I’d play a lot of heavy dubstep. I may tone it down but I also know everyone after me can play ball. This is one of those events where I believe the energy will be high for every set.
NOLA EDM: Area 34 events emphasize immersion, community, and PLUR-rooted energy. What kind of connection are you hoping to build with the crowd early in the night?
KRADO: I want people to feel comfortable in the space and connected to one another. It’s less about me and more about the shared experience.
NOLA EDM: Opening sets can shape the entire flow of an event. What do you feel is your responsibility to the room as one of the artists kicking off Abduction?
KRADO: Opening slots can be tricky but I feel that I have to set the bar high for artists after me while also being true to myself. This is one of the biggest events in Mississippi EDM history and it starts with the openers.
NOLA EDM: You’ve been playing across different scenes lately, including upcoming dates at Republic and in Mississippi. How does Abduction fit into this current chapter of the KRADO project?
KRADO: Being able to play with new faces is always a plus. Seeing something with so much potential is why I’m so thankful to be a part of it. I’ve been watching Area 34 for a bit now and they are absolutely starting something special in Mississippi. Why wouldn’t I want to support this genuine movement?
NOLA EDM: Looking ahead, what’s next for KRADO after Abduction — new releases, collaborations, or shows you’re most excited about?
KRADO: Look out for more releases under the Airheadzz alias. AMPED Productions is hosting THE RESURRECTION June 5th and 6th with the pre-party on June 4th.
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NOLA EDM is a New Orleans-based music and culture platform dedicated to documenting, promoting, and producing events that highlight the Gulf South’s electronic and underground scenes. Through artist interviews, editorial coverage, and festival production, NOLA EDM connects fans, promoters, and creators shaping the city’s next wave of sound. Follow NOLA EDM on Instagram for weekly event updates, giveaways, and exclusive artist features.
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