photo: Alexander Popov
Techno is obviously not a new subject on this blog. After all, whether you like it or not, it’s one of Berlin’s most defining characteristics, the basics of which have already been discussed by Andy, the club culture expert we’re blessed to have on board. But, this time we look at techno from a little different angle.
Like with any social phenomenon that gained cult following, the subject is quite controversial. Although techno in general probably has more advocates in Berlin than it has opponents, there are still people willing (or less willing, but nevertheless reckoning) that they just don’t get it and regard the term ‘’club culture’’ as a modern-day example of an oxymoron at best.
This piece goes out to all of you. As baffling as the notion of gyrating on a crowded sweaty dance floor – only beaten in monotony by the two-hour queue preceding it might be, there are particular things thoroughly positive about it. I really didn’t think so either. But a funny turn of events steered by my own curiosity and the goodwill of some wonderful friends proved me wrong. And here are my takeaways:
Life Is A Gift
There’s plenty of reasons why it took me a while to try clubbing. Apart from the fact that underneath it all, I’m just a nerdy old soul whose fate has been destined at 7 years of age when I accidentally saw Elvis on TV, I was really stressed out when I first came to Berlin. I really wanted to feel like I belong here, and that for me meant getting a job and learning German so that I could study someday.
While hustling can be great and really give you a sense of fulfillment, it’s not necessary to sweat everything that much. Life’s a great gift – everyone knows it’s a cliche, but only some understand it’s actually also true. When you’re dancing and watching the smiling faces all around, it’s easier to grasp that. The joyous freedom granted by the dance clubs of our city is just unparalleled. The kind of rhythmic movement that raises no eyebrows in Berlin performed somewhere in Edinburgh had people suspect me of having consumed considerable amounts of various party supplies. And while such are definitely readily available around here, it’s also possible to get tipsy with your simple lust for life.
photo: Raphael Schaller
Celebrate Inclusivity
Again, it sounds quite pompous, but the inclusivity on Berlin’s dancefloors is unmatched. Anyone is accepted as long as they accept everyone else. It’s a simple principle, yet often completely disregarded in many public areas.
Of course, every club is a different scene, but once you get past the bouncer, no one else could possibly reject your right to join in on the fun. No place is completely immune to sleazy behavior, but the prevailing attitude is that of mutual respect.
Quirky is the new black on Berlin’s dancefloors. You don’t have to follow any strict dress code as such – but you do have to feel comfortable. Just be yourself (whoever and whatever that is!) – as everyone can spot a pretender.
photo: Alex Holyoake
Get Closer to People
A club is actually a great place to get rid of any social awkwardness. You find yourself in such close proximity to others that it would be ridiculous to pretend you don’t see or hear them which happens so often under ‘’normal’’ social circumstances. It’s easier to make friends. And because we’re in Berlin, the techno capital of the universe, there’s some pretty cool international characters you can encounter.
Also, people are actually polite in the club setting. Let’s just put it this way: on the same weekend, I went to KitKat and to the Opera (yet another great element of Berlin’s diversity!). In one of these places, a lady felt like it was justified to raise her voice and reprimand others waiting to go to the bathroom because they were apparently limiting her personal space by not lining up outside on the corridor. Couldn’t happen at KitKat.
photo: Alexander Popov
Get Closer To Yourself
Many things can be said about techno, but I guess the most appropriate description when you’re a complete laic like me is that its constantly recurring beat does encourage meditation. You can focus on yourself, unwind, get lost. Dance like nobody is watching, because they’re not, they’re in their own virtual musical cubicle. Surrounded by many others living their own fantasy like it’s nobody’s business, mustering up the courage to express yourself is the only way to proceed through the night. The DJ can really enhance the experience – the best ones take you on a journey, often intertwined with tracks from other genres as well.
photo: h heyerlein
Accept The Responsibility
One very common argument against clubbing that people like to use to crumble any logic like the one I just presented is the whole issue of drugs, lack of responsibility, taking the wrong choices. It doesn’t destroy my logic though. It reinforces it.
Your wrong choices are entirely yours. To be honest, you’re just as (or maybe even more) likely to be offered drugs in Görli than in a typical club. You get to decide how long you want to stay up and whether or not you factor in some peer pressure. You’ll be the one who has to face the follow-up.
Going out is not about losing control over your life. Sure, at any given time, there’s plenty of legitimate wackos on the dancefloor, but there’s just as many people who have full-time jobs and just like to relax this way. And only you know what group you fall into. No judgement either way.
photo: h heyerlein
