Last night’s warehouse party in the inner south was predictably shut down.
It could’ve had something to do with the location – a factory carpark not dissimilar to the mascot party that also caused a bit of a stir a while back.
However, it was brilliant while it lasted – a peaceful gathering of around 750 folks of all ages united by their love of electronic music and dub, and in many cases their rejection of sydney’s club hierarchy.
We could hear the bass on the light breeze as we walked up to the venue. Upon entry, we were greeted with a cacophony of choices – dnb, dub, live bands, and a few sound systems still finding their feet (and the generators).
The drum and bass pit was rinsin’ early, while the dub area revelled under a giant disco ball. The live stage was in full effect, but also had to contend with being closest to the main entrance – and was first to be shut down around 12.30am.
We witnessed some lovely creativity from some of the attendees. Special mention to the urban knitter who was in the process of creating a long arcing tapestry down the channel fence, which led to the chill space.
We hung around until 1.00am, by which stage it became clear that it was a lost cause. The street filled with flashing lights, and the arrival of the riot squad was merely a formality – not a question of if, but when.
Most party go-ers seemed to get the message and left as they had arrived and partied – peacefully and respectfully.
We may be idealistic, but last night we saw the true heart of sydney’s electronic underground – people not motivated by profit (or electro) but by the DIY ethos and spirit that embodies underground scenes globally.
Respect and gracias to all the crews who made spontaneous contributions (whoever you are).
