San Diego Arts Roundup: Project BLANK to Host Techno Dance Party

The Evolution of Rave Culture: From Underground to Algorithmic

If you’ve noticed a decline in rave culture’s energetic buzz, you’re not alone. Many dancers and music lovers have observed that the thriving spirit of the ’90s raves feels a world away from today’s massive music festivals. Leslie Leytham, the artistic director of Project BLANK, offers keen insight into this transformation. “The beauty of going to raves in the ‘90s was there was a very cryptic way to get there—you didn’t know where you were going to go. There was this element of danger,” she reflects.

As raves have evolved, they have often become commodified, shifting from intimate underground gatherings to sprawling events characterized more by corporate sponsorship than by the adventure and secrecy that once defined them. Leytham notes, “Now these are giant music festivals that are expensive and they’ve strayed pretty far from the original scene, like everything else.”

Project BLANK’s Algorithmic Rave: A New Take on an Old Tradition

Despite this landscape, Project BLANK is taking a bold step to revive the essence of raves while infusing it with innovative technology. They will conclude their annual Salty Series with what they are calling an “Algorithmic Rave,” taking place this Friday at 7 p.m. at Mujeres Brewery in Barrio Logan. “Ours isn’t covert,” says Leytham, who fondly remembers sneaking out to her first rave as a high school student. The event promises to strip away the commercialization that now dominates many rave parties.

The Algorithmic Rave aims to encompass a diverse range of performers who will create a multi-sensory experience through sound and visual stimuli. “Each of the different artists is using technology in interesting ways,” Leytham emphasizes. One such artist, Joe Cantrell, employs hardware devices controlled by computers to create his soundscapes. Meanwhile, Matty Terrones and Victor Castaneda utilize live coding—where the code itself is projected in real-time as they generate sound—creating a dynamic atmosphere that mirrors the unpredictability of traditional raves.

Adding another layer of depth, Amy Alexander will perform an interactive piece combining live audio, visuals, and artificial intelligence, exploring profound questions through her work.

The Experience Awaits

Curious about the intricacies of Project BLANK’s Algorithmic Rave? There’s no better way to discover it than by attending the event at Mujeres Brewery this Friday evening. For those interested in tickets, more information can be found at projectblanksd.org.

A Shift in Musical Narratives: Ben Folds at The Magnolia

Beyond raves, music enthusiasts have a treat awaiting them this weekend with Ben Folds set to perform at The Magnolia in El Cajon. Part of the aptly named “Ben Folds & A Piano” tour, the show promises a stripped-back performance that reconnects fans with Folds’ roots in the alternative music scene. This marks a new chapter for the artist, who spent eight years as an artistic adviser to the National Symphony Orchestra, culminating in a live album.

Attendees can expect to feel the authentic emotional weight of Folds’ music in an intimate setting—his sardonic storytelling and melodic prowess are sure to resonate with both long-time fans and new listeners alike. Tickets for this show can be found at magnoliasandiego.com.

The Dramatic Arts: Poway Shakespeare’s “Bards with Blades”

The arts do not stop at music. For theater lovers, the San Diego International Fringe Festival is now underway, showcasing a host of performances, including the debut of Poway Shakespeare. Their production, titled “Bards with Blades,” features a selection of scenes from Shakespeare’s works brought to life through visceral stage combat.

Set in Old Poway Park, this show incorporates thrilling swordplay, drawing from classics like “Henry V” and “Romeo and Juliet.” For those looking to experience the melding of classic literature with dynamic performance art, performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, continuing through May 21-23, all at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available for $13 at sdfringe.org.

Music Festivals: A Journey to Joshua Tree

For those inclined to travel, the Joshua Tree Music Festival offers an escape into the mesmerizing backdrop of nature. Recently celebrated with a lifetime achievement award at the San Diego Music Awards, artist Steve Poltz will cap off the festival’s lineup on Sunday.

The festival attracts a diverse array of musicians from across the globe, creating a rich tapestry of sound and experience. It’s the perfect opportunity for those who appreciate both music and the outdoors, with participants camping at Joshua Tree Lake Campground—a scenic three-hour drive from San Diego. More details about the schedule and performers can be found at joshuatreemusicfestival.com.

An Iconic Musical Finale: Paul McCartney on SNL

Television also has its standout moments this week, highlighted by the musical appearance of Paul McCartney on the season finale of “Saturday Night Live.” Hosted by “SNL” alum Will Ferrell, this marks McCartney’s eighth appearance on the iconic show.

With a rich history of musical collaborations and a recent release involving Ringo Starr, McCartney continues to prove his enduring relevance in the music scene. The convergence of classic and contemporary continues with Ringo gearing up for a tour with his All-Starr Band later this month.

The vibrant landscape of the arts this weekend promises to spark curiosity, creativity, and conversation, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.