Snapped: Mamby On The Beach, Chicago

A proper holiday weekend spent in Chicago and in Mixmag's DJ Tent

The Midwest might not usually conjure imagery of sunny, beachside relaxation and landscapes, but Chicago received solace just in time for the July 2 and 3 holiday weekend in the form of Mamby On The Beach.

Organizer React Presents is also known in the region for its Chicago effort Spring Awakening, which takes place in early June and targets the more commercial end of dance music, allowing Mamby to fill in for those seeking a dose of the more live and underground-tipped talents in a festival setting.

A short drive away from Chicago's downtown, Mamby's quirky decor and summertime vibes quickly defined it as a boutique festival and the perfect laidback setting to cater to true music fanatics. As the day hours blended into the evening, live acts like Gallant, Chet Faker and Chromeo were in competition with a brilliant, blazing Chicago skyline sunset that served as the backdrop to the main Mamby stage.

Mamby got the hometown honor it deserved with a surprise appearance from Chance the Rapper during Lido's Saturday evening performance.

Elsewhere, Mixmag's DJ Tent saw some of today's biggest names deliver powerful sets. The Black Madonna, Steve Bug and The Martinez Brothers packed out the tent from morning 'til night and Sunday evening saw a massive moment when Audion played to a tent bursting with dancers and groovers ahead of a closing set from Tale Of Us.

Two days of Mamby delivered all the explosive, exciting music moments that the Windy City sought after - no fireworks needed.

[Photos courtesy of Mamby On The Beach]