Summary of "The Cult of Raves" Episode of Sounds Like a Cult

Release Date: March 18, 2025
Host: Amanda Montell
Co-Host: Reese Oliver
Guest: Federica Brandi

Introduction

In this episode of Sounds Like a Cult, Amanda Montell and Reese Oliver delve into the enigmatic world of rave culture, exploring whether it qualifies as a cult. The discussion is enriched by insights from Federica Brandi, a seasoned raver and editorial writer for the publication Idio Maniac. The trio examines the origins, core principles, rituals, and evolving dynamics of rave culture, juxtaposing its utopian ideals with underlying issues.

Historical Origins of Rave Culture

Amanda Montell [07:07]: Amanda introduces the historical context of rave culture, tracing its roots back to the 1970s and its evolution alongside iconic cults of the era, such as Jonestown and the Manson Family. Reese Oliver adds depth by referencing the documentary Black to Techno, which highlights the genesis of techno music in Detroit during the 1980s, emphasizing themes of futurism, social mixing, and pride in blackness and queerness.

Notable Quote:

• Reese Oliver [07:32]: "Early American techno was science fictional futurism pursued through experimental sound, social mixing, freeform radio, pride in blackness and queerness, altered states of consciousness..."

Core Principles and Rituals

The episode delves into the foundational ethos of rave culture, encapsulated by the acronym PLUR—Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect. Federica Brandi elaborates on how these principles serve as the "raver's creed," fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Notable Quote:

• Federica Brandi [16:26]: "Plur, which stands for peace, love, unity and respect. And it's, I would say, like the raver's creed."

Candy Culture and Handshakes: Federica introduces the concept of "candy"—plastic bead bracelets that carry messages—and the associated handshake ritual. This exchange symbolizes acceptance and camaraderie within the rave community.

Notable Quote:

• Federica Brandi [25:26]: "Peace, love, unity. And you would just bring your hands together like this. Unity. And then respect. And you grip each other's hands like this."

Fashion and Uniforms

Rave fashion is highlighted as a distinct and expressive uniform that reflects the community's values. Bright colors, elaborate accessories, and DIY elements like Perler bead creations are standard, symbolizing rebellion and creativity.

Notable Quote:

• Federica Brandi [18:26]: "Rave outfits are made up of these little plastic beads, and a lot of times they have sayings on them."

Challenges and Dark Side of Rave Culture

Despite its positive facade, rave culture grapples with significant issues:

1. Sexism and Misogyny: The industry is predominantly male-dominated, fostering a toxic environment where misogyny and sexual misconduct are prevalent. Federica cites the case of Lauren Ashton (Bass Nectar) as a prominent example of abuse within the scene.

   Notable Quote:

   • Federica Brandi [34:28]: "The EDM industry, though it might not be implicit, has a sexism problem, a misogyny problem, and a racial diversity problem."

2. Drug Culture: While not mandatory, drug use is intricately linked with raving. Federica discusses the dual perspectives within the community—those who advocate for harm reduction and sobriety versus those who view drugs as integral to the experience.

   Notable Quote:

   • Federica Brandi [44:14]: "There's a lot more education, more open discussion about harm reduction and education around substances within the rave scene than in most other parts of society."

3. Artist Exploitation and Burnout: The pressure on artists to perform, market themselves, and maintain an image leads to burnout and, in extreme cases, mental health crises.

   Notable Quote:

   • Federica Brandi [40:25]: "There's this immense pressure on artists to perform and be an idol and market themselves, leading to burnout and sometimes tragic outcomes like suicides and overdoses."

Mainstreaming and Commercialization

Rave culture has increasingly entered the mainstream, transforming from underground gatherings to large-scale, corporate-sponsored festivals. This shift has sparked backlash within the community, leading to a resurgence of underground events that strive to preserve the original PLUR ethos.

Notable Quote:

• Federica Brandi [48:35]: "Rave culture has become so commodified... it's caused a divide, with many feeling frustrated at the commercialization of raves."

Community and Identity

The allure of rave culture lies in its ability to provide a sanctuary for those seeking acceptance and belonging. Federica emphasizes the community aspect, where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to escape societal pressures and express their authentic selves.

Notable Quote:

• Federica Brandi [29:24]: "It provides a sort of refuge for people... a gathering space for the weird kids, for people who feel ostracized in society."

Conclusion and Categorization

In wrapping up the discussion, Reese Oliver categorizes the cult aspect of raves as a "Get the Fuck Out" type, indicating a need to distance from its problematic elements. Amanda Montell reflects on the complexity of defining rave culture strictly as a cult, acknowledging both its uplifting and destructive facets.

Notable Quotes:

• Reese Oliver [53:45]: "I think they're headed in a bad direction... raves are getting churchier."
• Amanda Montell [55:52]: "It is a hardcore watch your back because I don't want to rob people that this means something to every single little piece of it."

Key Takeaways

• Rave culture originated as a countercultural movement centered around music, community, and expressive freedom.
• PLUR principles foster a sense of unity and acceptance but coexist with underlying issues like sexism, drug culture, and artist exploitation.
• Commercialization has diluted the original ethos, prompting a backlash and a return to underground roots.
• Rave rituals and fashion serve as bonding mechanisms, reinforcing group identity and belonging.
• The cult-like aspects of rave culture are nuanced, encompassing both positive community-building and negative exploitative practices.

Final Thoughts

"The Cult of Raves" offers a comprehensive exploration of rave culture, presenting it as a multifaceted community with both commendable ideals and significant challenges. Through engaging conversations and expert insights, the episode invites listeners to critically assess the complexities of subcultures in contemporary society.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Federica Brandi [00:13]: "Rave culture specifically is so based on these concepts of like, peace, love, unity, respect that it really is kind of a refuge for people."
• Reese Oliver [07:32]: "Early American techno was science fictional futurism pursued through experimental sound..."
• Federica Brandi [16:26]: "Plur, which stands for peace, love, unity and respect. And it's, I would say, like the raver's creed."
• Federica Brandi [25:26]: "Peace, love, unity. And you would just bring your hands together like this..."
• Federica Brandi [34:28]: "The EDM industry... has a sexism problem, a misogyny problem..."
• Federica Brandi [44:14]: "There's a lot more education... harm reduction and education around substances..."
• Reese Oliver [53:45]: "I think they're headed in a bad direction... raves are getting churchier."
• Amanda Montell [55:52]: "It is a hardcore watch your back because I don't want to rob people..."

This summary aims to encapsulate the essence of the "The Cult of Raves" episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't tuned in.