By: Alex Bazaar
As Bruce Lee once said, “Don’t think; feel!” I was sure feeling it the other day at the LA Exchange on Friday, where DJ Isaac and Headhunterz cooked up some home-made beats and tracks! Raving is amazing, definitely, but at the same time, it takes a group effort to make the experience enjoyable. If someone is having a bad day or is confused, it is natural for humans to show a concern for others, especially if they need advice. I recalled how I helped a rave newcomer enjoy his night even more by serving as a good example.
I noticed one guy was trying to enjoy the party, as I continued to throw high fives in all directions. He was alone and by his body movements, he seemed as if he was being calculative about how he should present himself. I wasn’t sure if he wasn’t feeling it or he had gas. I know it is unwise to assume any theories but if I feel a person may need extra-help trying to have fun, then I’ll put on my imaginary cape to their rescue (it’s imaginary for a reason, I would probably trip on a real one at this event). I know not to get involved with anyone who takes their personal space serious. I conjured the idea to prance over to him and see if I can make his night even wackier with good vibes included. I start my fist-pumping ritual as I orbit and signal him with my eyes to join me. He smiles, then whispers into my ear (normal talking is actually whispering at these events), “I’m sorry. This is my first rave!” I retorted, “Today is your lucky day! Can I help make this night great for you, although I’m sure it has been amazing already?!” Grooving through the crowd while being considerate of people’s space, he started to mimic me by machine-gunning high fives to other happy-camping ravers. And later, I even gave him his first piece of candy! He told me that he wasn’t sure how to act here since he’s a Twitch streamer for League of Legends. He doesn’t go to parties or events, so this was a big leap for him. He loved electronic music in-particular because it reminded him of the montage videos of pro gamers getting crazy head shots on Call of Duty or any other competitive game. He finally developed the courage to come out to the heart of LA and listen to hard-dance music live. Late in the night, he asked me, “How does one rave?”
Although it sounded like a philosophical question, he was very serious. After a moment of pondering, I advised him with, “There is no particular guidelines. Just have fun. Feel and imitate the lyrics in your own way and respect other people.” Nonetheless, he thanked me for giving him that extra push to not think too much on rave guidelines. He also learned to better appreciate the DJ’s performance, good energy from your neighbors, and the artistic influx of lights and sounds that do amazing, weird things to you. Whether you are taking friends to their first event or meeting other rave fairies there, always be ready to one-up anyone you come in-contact with. It is a group effort to spread PLUR: Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect. Keep on bouncing, peeps!
