Venues across Hong Kong and the world are hosting 'raves’, but these events are a far cry from the original history of the word. While they share a focus on music and a communal atmosphere, they do not have some of the key elements that define in past history a true rave.

The recent trend in Hong Kong of coffee shop raves, typically involves a DJ playing electronic music (all type of genres) in a coffee shop, restaurant, even an ice cream shop setting during the day or evening hours. Participants dance and socialize, often with non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, teas, water and juices. These events are often daytime or early-evening gatherings, concluding before midnight. They are a fun, often sober alternative events to the traditional nightlife and provide a community-focused space for people who enjoy all types of electronic music, but don't want the typical nightlife / club scene that happens late at night and early in the morning. The use of the word 'rave' here we see is for a sense of excitement and high-energy fun, which these events can often be.

A true rave as we know it and have experienced since the 90s, is an all-night, dance party that takes place in a large, open-air spaces, event spaces, warehouses or an abandoned building. It is defined by its underground nature, not its location. The music is almost exclusively electronic dance music, specifically genres like acid house, progressive and techno. They were often spontaneous, with locations frequently announced at the last minute via flyers or messages.

So what is the difference?

One of the primary distinction between the two types of ‘rave’ is their environment. Coffee shop raves are more commercial and day time activities. The coffee shop setting is bright and familiar compared to that of what you would expect from a rave in the 90s. So I feel that the word 'rave' for coffee shop events is more of a marketing tool to attract a crowd seeking a unique and energetic experience, rather than a genuine reflection of the use of the word for events known from its past history. The ones we have been to in Hong Kong have been really fun and it is great to see something different come to the city and that brings everyone together through music.

Have you been to one and how was your experience?

(Photo source: istockphoto)