Playground LIVE, established in early 2008, is a sensory extravaganza that fuses the world of electronic dance music with the unabashed energy of acoustic and electronic percussion. The group’s founders, Andre Solaris and Mark Paul first met at one of Chicago’s famous sub-culture venues on the North side of the city. Instantly identifying a kindred soul in each other they cultivated their friendship and a common affinity for music over the past two decades.

The electronic music movements of the late 80’s and 90’s inspired Andre’s musical career. As a founder of FUEL Promote Group he helped shape the Chicago dance music scene through organizing quality underground dance music events for over a decade. His continuous involvement in dance music as a syndicated radio DJ on various Chicago FM stations (“Clubland Underground” on 92.7&5 FM, “Sonic Boom” on Q101 FM) and later on XM Satellite Radio (“Fuel” on ‘The Move’ – Ch.80) influenced and educated music enthusiasts for nearly 10 years.

Mark Paul’s affair with music began in Chicago’s thriving rock movement. After emerging from his modest beginnings as a cover band drummer, he made a name for himself in the rock circles as one of the most versatile performers. He was a part of jazz bands, symphonic orchestras, jazz-fusion combos, and experimental rock groups. His ability to dynamically fuse elements of various genres in live performance, allowed him to create a unique and exciting new approach to drumming that gives Playground LIVE intense energy and unpredictability. His natural talent and hard work in drumming found an audience in Chicago’s rock scene. However, it was his love for dance music and a long time involvement as a local jock that contributed in the creative process that lead to the inception of Playground LIVE.

The performance is as much a sonic experience as it is visual. The stage set encompasses a digital DJ setup and a custom acoustic/electronic drum set all accentuated by an intelligent lighting system and on-screen visuals. This powerhouse of audio/visual stimulation can adapt to virtually all club settings and concert venues. Musically, Playground LIVE draws from various genres of electronic dance music to create its own unique sound. Andre Solaris’ carefully selected trademark blend of most inspiring and dance floor moving tracks covering Progressive and Tech House along with Techno and Minimal House creates a captivating concoction that devastates any open-minded crowd. The duo reassembles, re-edits, and remixes the tracks in their studio to tailor each one for the overall mix. It then lends itself perfectly to Mark Paul’s expert percussion skills as the duo invites the audience to get lost in the intricate play between the mechanic and the organic side of dance music.