23 September 2024 | Photos: Rukes
The bold interplay of light and colour in Rukes’ photos mirrors the intensity of Illenium’s Chicago show
At the close of this summer, world-renowned photographer Drew Ressler, known as Rukes, captured Illenium's electrifying performance at House of Blues Chicago. As one of the most sought-after photographers in the electronic dance music scene, Rukes' keen eye for live music photography shines in this latest collection. Fans of both Illenium and Rukes' work should not miss the chance to see these stunning images.
The photos feature deep, saturated lighting with contrasting hues of blues, greens, purples, reds and yellows, creating a moody, electrifying atmosphere that matches the intensity of Illenium's performance.
Expansive wide-angle shots capture the full scope of the venue, giving a sense of grandeur to the intimate setting of House of Blues. These shots emphasise both the artist’s presence and the immersive environment of the performance. Rukes’ signature style shines through with vibrant, unfiltered colours that bring the whole scene to life. The contrast of warm and cool tones enhances the overall visual impact.
The interior design of House of Blues Chicago is renowned for its immersive, artful atmosphere that fuses elements of Southern Gothic, deep-south Louisiana, and voodoo culture. Upon entering, guests are immediately surrounded by vibrant murals, intricate sculptures, and an eclectic mix of artefacts that pay homage to the roots of American music, particularly blues, jazz and gospel. This artistry is visible throughout the venue, from the elaborate stage backdrop to the ornate chandeliers and detailed carvings.
The design is a feast for the eyes, with the venue's walls adorned with depictions of blues legends and cultural icons, capturing the spirit and soul of the music performed there. The colours, patterns and textures all contribute to creating a lively, yet intimate, environment. Each section of the venue—from the grand concert hall to the more intimate Foundation Room—offers a unique visual experience, celebrating a blend of musical heritage and cultural diversity.
Drew Ressler, widely known as Rukes, is celebrated as one of the leading photographers in the electronic dance music (EDM) scene. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Rukes has established himself as the go-to photographer for capturing the energy and atmosphere of major festivals like Ultra Music Festival, Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) and Tomorrowland, to name a few. His distinctive style, particularly his use of wide-angle and fish-eye lenses, has brought a fresh perspective to festival photography, allowing him to capture the grandeur of the stage and crowd while maintaining a focus on the intimacy of DJ performances. Rukes’ work is highly regarded for its clarity and natural feel, often eschewing heavy filters in favor of a raw, immersive visual experience.
Rukes began his journey into nightlife photography in the early 2000s, initially photographing DJs he admired for fun. His rise to prominence coincided with the explosion of the EDM scene, and he quickly became the trusted visual documentarian for some of the industry's biggest names, including Deadmau5, Swedish House Mafia, and Steve Angello. His behind-the-scenes access and on-stage vantage points have allowed him to capture moments that are as iconic as the music itself. Beyond festivals, Rukes also has a passion for food photography and often integrates his love for travel and cuisine into his work, making him a multifaceted visual storyteller in the world of electronic music and beyond.
Visit Rukes' website here to keep up with the latest updates, see all photos by Rukes from Illenium's show here.
