It’s about time I talk about the Indie Sleaze rave. Obviously I’m a bit late to the party writing about it now but being fashionably late never hurt anyone. (Actually, don’t quote me on that). Ironically I was fairly early for the rave itself. Before I get into the sets though I do want to give some props to the preparation Their House puts into these events. They set the bar high when it comes to event planning. I have only been to two of the raves they have done but for each one they noticeably put in hard work in the weeks leading up to it. First are the posters they create. It is the first thing the audience will see when looking for events and Their House hits home runs every single time. The posters they create truly capture the essence of their theme, showing the audience what’s in store for them. Not to mention the fact that their design for the posters make you want to frame them to hang up in your room. I am not sure who exactly makes the posters but I want to applaud them for creating a design you want to hold on to.

Speaking of designs, each event they DJ for ends up being a fashion designer’s dream. Their House gives you a theme and it’s your challenge to put an outfit together. If you are not sure how to dress according to theme, don’t fret, Their House has your back. It is another small detail that most people may not think to include when planning something like this but Their House sets the bar high yet again. Sure you could look it up online but it’s nice to know the people planning the rave care enough to include a curated mood board of fashion for it. When all is said and done if your outfit ends up not fitting the theme it is perfectly alright. Their House wants you to have fun whether that means putting together an elaborate outfit or just showing up to dance your heart out. 

Last thing I’ll mention about the pre-event planning is Their House never letting the hype die down. They usually post every few days as a reminder for people about the event. These posts are never the same which keeps the interest alive. From photos/videos of past DJ events, collages, posters, limited time Instagram stories, Their House talking about the event, themed internet references, etc. Their House has some of the most dynamic ways of keeping people engaged and wanting more.

Every pre-event post amps up the audience and when the time finally comes we are never let down. This indie sleaze rave shined like the sweat smudged glitter on a face after dancing for hours. As usual, Arcana and Baedizzle conducted the audience like an orchestra with their music selection and transitions. The instruments of our bodies flowed with their sound waves unable to stop as the music continued throughout the night. Everyone was dressed to the nines in their sleaziest of indie clothing. Scarves fluttered, makeup ran, hats bobbed above other glittery heads, and rhinestones reflected the light filling the space with color. People joined together to cheer for the DJs when a particularly good song was chosen. Strangers became friends as multiple groups conversed with each other. People were invited to join Their House on stage to experience something extraordinary together. The DJs lovingly gazed out into the crowd every so often as we danced through the night. All of it was reminiscent of an early 2010s fashion show after party. The combination of everything created a type of ‘lightning in a bottle’ energy that was unforgettable. There is only so much I can describe when it comes to Their House raves. They are a truly memorable experience and it’s one you have to take in for yourself. The memories created there will stay with you forever.

If you missed this rave there is no need to worry because Their House has plans for the future and I have been dying to discuss them. Their House and its founders are very active on social media which is how I found two posts that got me excited to talk about this. The first was an Instagram story about Their House’s next theme. Baedizzle and Arcana are currently backpacking through parts of Europe with a focus on seeing different DJs along the way. (Side note: that is probably the coolest idea for a trip I’ve ever heard of). They have been there for about a week now and it seems the trip has already inspired them. With “influence straight from Rotterdam and Berlin” their next rave will be “1000% hard, industrial, & acid techno.” [Instagram story from Baedizzle, Sept. 6th]. All of their raves are something to look forward to but this one is something I have been searching for since falling in love with techno way back when. No worries if you cannot travel right now, Their House will soon bring European techno into our home. 

The only thing we need now is a space for these incredible DJs to perform. They could go with a classic like The Loud but what if there was somewhere else? Their House must have been asking the same question when Baedizzle posted to her Instagram story a while back. Apparently she has been dabbling with the idea of opening a venue specifically for DJs right here in Huntington. I know it’s not up for votes but if it was I would give a resounding “hell f***ing YES.” I will be the first to point out my bias in this as I have been wishing for a venue like the ones you see in bigger cities. It is genuinely a brilliant idea though, my bias aside. There are a ton of amazing DJs here in WV and the surrounding states with only a few places to perform. Not to say those venues are not great because they very much are. It would, however, be nice to have a space designated for DJs of all kinds to come put on a show. A venue like that would bring fans of the various electronic genres out into a place they have been waiting for.

Granted, I’m sure there are many logistics to figure out but with DJs as passionate about their craft as Their House is I have faith it will succeed. Their House goes the extra mile with the ideas they develop all with community on their mind. They provide spaces for us to connect with the music, with the people around us, and with the world outside our homes. Their House truly loves what they do and we love them for it. I am not sure what the future holds for Huntington raves but I have a feeling it will be held in Their House.

Instagrams:

@theirhousewv

@baedizzle

@arcana.wav

@theloudwv

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