The Davis Electronic Dance Music Club Discusses Their Events

By LAILA AZHAR — features@theaggie.org

The Davis Electronic Dance Music Club (EDMC) is more than just a gathering for electronic music enthusiasts; it’s a vibrant community where students come together to share their passion for EDM. With events like the “Heaven or Hell Boiler Room” themed rave and a Picnic Day afterparty, the club captures the essence of electric nightlife through diverse musical experiences.

Breaking Misconceptions Around EDM

One of the primary missions of EDMC is to dismantle common misconceptions about electronic music. Tracy Duong, the club’s treasurer and a third-year managerial economics major, highlights the richness of EDM’s subgenres. “There are so many subgenres within EDM,” Duong explains. “So maybe one subgenre isn’t for you, but there are probably countless others that are, and our club likes to embrace that.” This commitment to diversity not only showcases the genre but also ensures that events cater to various musical tastes.

Celebrating Diversity in Music and Membership

At EDMC, diversity extends beyond music. The club’s events attract a kaleidoscope of attendees—students from different backgrounds and majors. Duong remarks on this inclusive atmosphere: “We have so many different kinds of people show up to our events, all different backgrounds and majors. Everyone brings different energies, but it’s always so fun to see how people merge and get along together.”

The club embraces a spectrum of experience levels, inviting both avid listeners and complete newcomers into the fold. Natalia Rascon, a fifth-year computer science and engineering major and the club’s president, emphasizes the importance of crafting a welcoming space for everyone. “I think it’s really important for us to have a welcome space for anyone, whether they’ve never heard of EDM or they love it,” she says.

How Community Builds Connections

The sense of community is palpable among the members. Rohan Rao, a fifth-year mechanical engineering major and the club’s vice president, recalls his initial experience: “For my first meeting, I was actually forced to go. I’m kind of a shy dude, but my friend was like, you’re a DJ, you can get your name out there.” Rao’s story is a testament to how EDMC nurtures connections through shared interests and collaborative efforts.

Duong echoes Rao’s sentiment, remarking on the unique camaraderie within the group: “It’s actually kind of crazy how we all really do get along. It really could be a miracle or some sort of coincidence, but the people in this community are really close and supportive and inclusive.”

The Importance of PLUR Values

Central to the club’s philosophy are the principles of peace, love, unity, and respect, often referred to as PLUR. These values are crucial to the rave community and are deeply ingrained in EDMC’s ethos. Rascon elaborates, “PLUR is one of the important aspects of the rave community. It’s something we really keep in mind when trying to give people these free spaces to express themselves.” The emphasis on PLUR fosters a nurturing environment where individuals can feel safe and accepted.

Moreover, Rao highlights how music serves as a universal connector, breaking down barriers between people: “People don’t have to come to events like these. They come to events like these because no matter how complicated or simple your life is, music is this one standard that everyone enjoys. So you can have very different people meeting for one thing, and that’s a really cool experience.”

Staying Connected with the EDM Scene

For those looking to immerse themselves in the fast-paced and exhilarating world of EDM, staying updated with EDMC’s activities is essential. Interested individuals can follow their Instagram account @davisedmc to keep in the loop about upcoming events, collaborations, and community gatherings.

Through vibrant events and an inclusive community, the Davis Electronic Dance Music Club not only celebrates the rhythm of electronic music but also the connections forged through it, creating an electric atmosphere that resonates well beyond the music itself.