So apparently Rave and Acid House are in again. Kids all over the world are indulging in raves, but of course a rave in 2006 is entirely different to that of a rave in 1987.
Back then, in the good old days, it was word of mouth between those-in-the-know as to where the next rave was taking place. A derelict warehouse, a plane hanger or a field, you would often only find out at the last minute and had to be ready to go at the drop of a hat (or a pill if that was your thing). You also had to be just as ready to make a swift exit when the cops came and shut it down. Back then the 'yoof' were loved up and that was the essence of raves, kids coming together and dancing all night...that and their love of all things fluorescent.
Oh how I remember the 80's love affair with neon colours and how I dreaded it's return. If listening to rave music isn't bad enough (it offends my DJ sensibilities no end - I'm not a hormone soaked teenager anymore!) we have now got to contend with blinding fluoro colours. Trust a Scot to be at the forefront of such a revival - in this case Christopher Kane. He sent his models down the runway in skin tight, eye popping brights but redeemed himself by teaming it with vintage style lace finishing for something a bit easier on the eye.
For your own sake, and everyone else's, don't be tempted to go full on fluoro, limited it to an accessory like a belt or some fun jewellery. Do not, I repeat DO NOT, wear neon socks! This is a crime against fashion beyond measure. I think this fluoro trip will be very short lived in fashion terms, but flirting with the odd splash here and there is acceptable.
In terms of music I'd stay away from old skool rave as that was then and this is now. Producers like Switch (Dave Taylor) and Jesse Rose have updated the acid sound, which is much slicker and club friendly. For housey acid check out labels like Dubsided, a Switch imprint, which is producing great acid tinged house and producers like Chris Duckenfield, a dear friend of the Kingdom, who's Modernhouseisrubbish mix is an acid fuelled journey!
Enjoy!
Queen Michelle
