The 808 pioneer who helped define LA hip-hop is playing Melbourne on Valentine’s Day
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27.01.2026

The 808 pioneer who helped define LA hip-hop is playing Melbourne on Valentine’s Day

Words by staff writer

Spasta is set to transform the Abbotsford Convent's Heritage Gardens into a love-soaked dance party this Valentine's Day with a lineup headlined by LA electro pioneer Egyptian Lover.

The West Coast legend responsible for anthems like Egypt, Egypt will be performing live at the convent grounds on 14 February, marking a rare opportunity to catch the legendary artist in such an intimate outdoor setting.

It’s not often the Heritage Gardens are activated for events, with only a handful of organisers granted permission to host on the historic lawns each year.

Spasta pres. Valentines Day at the Convent

  • 14 February
  • Heritage Gardens, Abbotsford Convent
  • Tickets here

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.

 

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Joining Egyptian Lover for the Valentine’s special will be Rotterdam selector Suze Ijó, who’s flying in from the Netherlands fresh off appearances at venues like Panorama Bar and Dekmantel Festival. LA-based DJ Juan Izguerra rounds out the international contingent, bringing his blend of disco, new wave and house across the Pacific for the occasion. Local party-starter Adriana completes the bill and will also be running speed dating sessions on the convent lawns throughout the afternoon.

The event sees Yitonia once again integrating Greek festival energy into the proceedings, with village-style food, drinks and traditional dancing adding to the festivities. Punters can also grab a rose from the bar to gift their date, situationship or best mate.

For those unfamiliar with the headliner, Egyptian Lover (real name Greg Broussard) pioneered the Roland TR-808 drum machine sound that would go on to define West Coast hip-hop. His 1984 debut album On the Nile helped establish Los Angeles as a major force in electro and rap, and his influence can still be heard in electronic music worldwide four decades later.

For more information, head here.

This article was made in partnership with Finding Figaro.