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XLR8R
(San Francisco); summer 1995 To tell the truth, and I should clear this right off the bat, I'm not an experienced music critic. At least not a published one. I'm also not an exclusive devotee to electronic music, though I've been known to tweak synthesizers from time to time. What I am is a die-hard enthusiast for music across the great genre horizon, a call-me-crazy addict to sound sculpture, and a genuine fan. Which, I guess, is why an invitation to Even Furthur found it's way into my hands about a month ago. And I'm very glad it did. On the weekend of May 26-29, in Northern Wisconsin far from the urban sprawl, over 3000 folks from across the country and overseas gathered together to dance and camp and play outdoors. In the words of the Drop Bass Network - who along with David Prince and Ripe Promotions made it the event's 2nd year - it was "a beautiful setting in techno music... something really magical happens with our culture when it takes part in these types of events." Over 50 DJs worked the turntables on 7 different sound systems which were spread around the site. Needless to say, there was plenty of amazing music. Everyone danced to it, cooked to it, partied to it and every once in a while slept to it. But most of all, they celebrated the energy of it. Hard techno, hip-hop, jungle, acid house, dub, trance, even some rock and disco all had their vibrations kicked through the woofers and into the air for everyone's enjoyment. Laser light shows and campfires provided the visuals in their own distinct ways. There were intense live performances by Prototype 909 and Tripper Information Systems and though all the DJs deserve credit, some of the hottest sets were offered up by Frankie Bones, DJ Dan, Mystical Influence and Sven-R-G. In addition to the core Midwestern crowd, I met travelers from Florida, Texas, New York, North Carolina, California, Washington, Canada and several European countries. They all came due to personal invitations, party flyers and the genuine grass roots enthusiasm of Drop Bass and friends. When the energy is positive, it is bound to spread. Of all the places most promoters would have chosen for a rave of this size - in a big urban center, at a modified disco or rock venue, near Times Square perhaps - they hardly would have imagined the Paul Bunyan Ski Lodge in the hills of Northern Wisconsin. Typically, promoters limit their risk by taking the beaten path and choosing locations in high population areas. But that doesn't guarantee a big crowd or a great party, when it comes right down to it. The most memorable events do not exploit the parameters, they explore and expand them. This was the goal of everyone involved with the 2nd Midwest techno campout called Even Furthur, and beyond question it was achieved. When all is said and done and the power cords are unplugged, this is what fans appreciate. Wonderful music, unrestrained dancing, getting outdoors, making friends. And you know what? It all happened in the pouring rain.
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