Author: John Cordero
Published: December 31, 1969
Tool: [ email ]
Let's dispense with the stereotypes many of us have about raves, those
infamous gatherings where teenagers indulge in drug consuming orgies while
listening to some weird thump-thump music. Yes, there is widespread drug
use, but not anymore than a typical 40 oz. And blunts packed rap concert.
Yes, the music does all sound the same to the untrained ear who can't
distinguish DJ Icey from DJ Rap. However, just as Hip Hop's foundation was
laid with rock, jazz, soul, and funk bricks, the electronic scene draws from
the well of Hip Hop. Remember that "Planet Rock" song your older cousin used
to break dance to? It spawned several new genres like House, Techno,
Breakbeat, Trance, and Jungle. All these musical styles were in full display
at the Cyberfest rave held in Melbourne, FL on Sept. 2nd
Even though Hip Hop doesn't embrace the rave culture, ravers themselves
for the most part are open to Hip Hop. Cyberfest had KRS-One, Run-DMC, DJ
Craze, and DJ Infamous on the bill. The massive size of the Melbourne
convention center allowed one to roam at will checking out the various rooms
as well as the main stage outside, which was also home to the skate vert
ramp, water gun fight area, and plenty of rides.
Craze and Infamous threw
down hard drum & bass sets that had the glow sticks high in the air and the
sweat pouring down from the frantic dancers asking for more.
After this
assault, the main stage was set for the Blastmaster to teach. As usual, his
show didn't disappoint, what with his back catalogue of classics and B-Boy
crew The Breeze Team putting it down with their routines and amazing moves.
And for the U.S. Open fan in you, he threw out a whole box of autographed
tennis balls. Hold on to those, they'll be worth something someday.
About the only low point of the evening came when the always-courteous
police decided to pull the plug at the beginning of Run-DMC's set, claiming
that the noise levels violated local ordinances. With nothing left to do but
party the rest of the night, the offerings were plenty: Trance room with BT,
Breaks outside courtesy of Prizm & Eclipse, Drum & Bass via Kevens, or
sampling the various offerings of the vendors and making instant friends out
of 5,000 people, since ravers often go out of their way to talk, hug, and
give candy out to everyone who crosses their path. The carnival atmosphere
and laser shows made Cyberfest a total playground for the musically inclined,
and the promoters delivered for the up all night crowd, closing down the show
at 6 AM. But that's OK, cuz there were plenty of after parties on hand at
the various hotels surrounding the venue. Already an annual event on the
left coast, we can only hope they can keep up the tradition here.
