When I walked into the building for Ascension, a Goth/Industrial night, they started playing "This Corrosion." I was introduced to Goth six years ago when I listened to the song, so it was like the night saying "Merry Gothmas, Katie!" I'd been planning on going all week, but when Friday rolled around, I was so exhausted from spending the entire day getting a new car (my last one was totaled) and then visiting family with a long drive back. I came home and wanted to just take a nap, and after taking too long to decide, I got dressed and headed out the door. This past Ascension was the last one held at the Masquerade, a much-loved local venue, and I wanted to experience it before I left for West Virginia.
I'd known about Ascension for a while. One reason why I hadn't gone before this past Friday is because of being a student and having lived an hour away. It's a lame excuse. Aside from that, I told myself for years that I wasn't a cluby-type (although that changed last Summer in Cusco where I loved going to dance clubs). I was too stubborn and nervous to go. I had some fears about not knowing anyone, being too young, and possibly experiencing elitism.
But I went. I got dressed up and did my makeup darker than I have in a while. I crimped my hair, and Ryan let me style him as well. We got there at 1 AM, and we danced until 3 in the morning. They played so many good songs—a good mix of Goth and Industrial—and they had colorful lights and smoke machines.
Most of the Atlanta scene looked to be a little bit older than I am. There was even an old man there with long white hair and a white beard who danced until the close. People dressed in a variety of ways, and everyone there looked like they were having a good time dancing and socializing. It really felt like a judgement-free zone with a sense of community. I even recognized someone I'd seen at the Soft Moon concert, although I didn't go to say "hello."
The last song of the night before they turned on all the lights was "Forever Young," which struck many of us and made me chuckle as it was unexpected. "No one said that Goths didn't have a sense of humor," I told Ryan as we slow-danced like it was prom. The DJ came to the edge of the stage, and everyone cheered. He made a speech and had a stack of fliers in his hand, saying that the new venue invited Ascension to come back and host a night in late August. I had such a fun time and plan on going to the next one before I move.
I'd known about Ascension for a while. One reason why I hadn't gone before this past Friday is because of being a student and having lived an hour away. It's a lame excuse. Aside from that, I told myself for years that I wasn't a cluby-type (although that changed last Summer in Cusco where I loved going to dance clubs). I was too stubborn and nervous to go. I had some fears about not knowing anyone, being too young, and possibly experiencing elitism.
But I went. I got dressed up and did my makeup darker than I have in a while. I crimped my hair, and Ryan let me style him as well. We got there at 1 AM, and we danced until 3 in the morning. They played so many good songs—a good mix of Goth and Industrial—and they had colorful lights and smoke machines.
Here's a video from the night shared by one of the DJs. You won't be able to see Ryan and I in the background, but we're there:
One of the DJs played this song, "Black Leather" by Prayers, who I learned are pioneers of the "Cholo Goth" movement within the subculture. I'm loving it, so give it a listen:
Most of the Atlanta scene looked to be a little bit older than I am. There was even an old man there with long white hair and a white beard who danced until the close. People dressed in a variety of ways, and everyone there looked like they were having a good time dancing and socializing. It really felt like a judgement-free zone with a sense of community. I even recognized someone I'd seen at the Soft Moon concert, although I didn't go to say "hello."
The last song of the night before they turned on all the lights was "Forever Young," which struck many of us and made me chuckle as it was unexpected. "No one said that Goths didn't have a sense of humor," I told Ryan as we slow-danced like it was prom. The DJ came to the edge of the stage, and everyone cheered. He made a speech and had a stack of fliers in his hand, saying that the new venue invited Ascension to come back and host a night in late August. I had such a fun time and plan on going to the next one before I move.
I always had to crash with a friend to attend clubs so I can see why you didn't go until now. I'm glad it was a great experience.
ReplyDeleteIt was! I'd like to go to the next one if I'm still here. Otherwise, there's a Goth club night in DC, which is a few hours from my new town. I could always crash with my brother who lives in the city.
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