APEX returns to the Maimarkthalle in Mannheim on Saturday, 6 March 2027. Germany’s biggest indoor hardstyle event has put together an extensive line-up for its fifth edition, featuring remarkable B2B combinations, special classics sets and unique performances. Among the highlights are Dual Damage B2B The Saints, Ran-D B2B Vertile and A.N.I. B2B Rooler. The German indoor hardstyle event will also introduce a redesigned stage concept.
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‘True to the Sound’: Back to the essence
For its fifth edition, APEX has chosen the theme ‘True to the Sound’. With this theme, organizer Musical Madness emphasizes the musical identity of the event. The organization celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and wants to use this milestone to reflect on the evolution of the hardstyle scene.
“The event industry is constantly evolving. Trends and hype come and go. For 20 years, we have been a constant in the scene, and with this year’s edition of APEX, we want to strengthen that identity even further”, says Benjamin Reichert, CEO of Musical Madness. “This was also the foundation for our theme this year: TRUE TO THE SOUND. It represents the authenticity of Musical Madness, our events and our deep-rooted connection to the music.”
That philosophy is also reflected in the line-up, which brings together different generations and styles. From classics and melodic hardstyle to today’s harder sounds, APEX aims to showcase how the music has evolved over the years.
Remarkable B2B combinations at APEX
The numerous B2B combinations are a major part of this year’s line-up. On the mainstage, Dual Damage and The Saints will join forces, while Ran-D takes to the decks alongside Vertile. B-Front and Rejecta will also team up, while Dimitri K and Lekkerfaces are set to deliver a joint performance on the harder end of the spectrum.
The second area also features several special collaborations. A.N.I. B2B Rooler promises a unique set, with both artists known for their exceptional mixing skills. While Fraw and Yoshiko will take things in an even harder direction. Fans of the older raw sound can look forward to Adaro B2B Regain. Meanwhile, Chapter V and Devin Wild will join forces, and Coone and DJ Isaac will share the decks.
Classics and 20 years of Noisecontrollers
Alongside the many collaborations, APEX will also celebrate the history of hardstyle. Noisecontrollers will mark 20 years of music with a special performance, while Crypsis will revisit his earlier work during a dedicated classics set. Sub Zero Project, meanwhile, will take fans on a journey through their career with an Evolution Set, showcasing how their signature sound has developed over the years.
D-Block & S-te-Fan will also return to Mannheim after producing the official anthem for the 2026 edition. The artist responsible for the 2027 anthem will be revealed on 30 November. The mainstage will also welcome Rebelion, Krowdexx and Galactixx. Meanwhile, MELO-3, a joint performance by Ecstatic, Jay Reeve and Solstice, will represent the melodic side of hardstyle.
APEX 2027
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Area 002
Redesigned stage concept brings artists closer to the crowd
In addition to its extensive line-up, APEX will introduce a completely redesigned stage concept in 2027. Musical Madness aims to reduce the traditional distance between artists and visitors. According to the organization, the new production approach has never been used at APEX before. Exactly what this will look like remains to be seen. “We’re literally bringing the music closer to the audience”, says Reichert.
APEX 2027 takes place on Saturday, 6 March 2027 at the Maimarkthalle in Mannheim, Germany. The fifth edition will revolve entirely around the theme ‘True to the Sound’. Tickets are available now via the official website.
Images via: Musical Madness
