After experiencing Berlin’s club scene, I find that most American raves pale in comparison; except for Subculture – a kaleidoscopic explosion of fashion and creativity.
Subculture is a queer-centric space that hosts monthly raves where the more outlandishly you present, the better. As another raver told us, “You get to see so many different people with such cool styles and I get a lot of inspiration from people.” Punk, drag, goth, fetish wear, full body paint: any style is fair play at Subculture.
Within the first five minutes I was there, I was given my first ever kandi bracelet (token of friendship, unity and respect in rave spaces) which set a super positive tone for the rest of the night.
Club Layout
The theme for this recent Subculture party was Cunt University party and was held at Catch One! (a staple of LA’s queer scene). The first thing you’ll notice as you step through the doors is a neon-lit outdoor area filled with ravers talking and taking a break from the music inside.
Once inside the actual building, guests have three stages to choose from: the hyper-pop stage, the EDM stage, and the techno/hip-hop stage.
The largest of the stages, the hyperpop stage doubled as the setting for the drag show that took place halfway through the night. The show featured several electrifying performances and lip syncs from drag queens like Sassquatch, Chyna Mulani, Pamula, Julvira and more.
Instagram: @bakedsasquatch
Instagram: @chynamulani
The EDM stage had its crowd dancing through the night with its selection that ranged from industrial techno to a performance by XKYLAR.
And lastly, the techno stage, DJ’ed by @whoisabbiana, had a sickening mix of experimental hip-hop and techno. The stage was also graced by @theblairwench, who had A+’s ready for Subculture’s cuntiest students.
The Verdict
As a first-timer at Subculture, I was mesmerized by the pulsing energy of the crowd, the abundance of extravagant looks and styles, and the general friendliness of every guest I met. Subculture earns itself an A+ from Narcissist!
Words & Photography by Nico Riley