But is it fair to dislike an artist because of his fans? Surely, I’ve got to give Skrillex some credit for being an Aphex Twin fan. But then again, how much credit do I need to take away for being the lead singer of the emo-core band called From First to Last?
Which really brings me to the most interesting point about Skrillex. His post-punk roots are still heavily ingrained in his appearance and musical composition and yet he is making music for the same bros that bullied him in high school. Though he is the face and purveyor of the bro-step genre, he has more in common with members of Silverstein than anyone who opens for him.
Back in the car, his set was loud and violent, often reaching a crescendo (better known as a drop today) that seemed to last for minutes. My friend explained that Skrillex was particularly good at hitting the drop at the right time and although I appreciate good timing as much as the next guy, my ears were beginning to bleed (and not in a good way).
When “Bangarang” came on, we all agreed that it was his catchiest song, though I noted it was the only one that didn’t feature as many overdone build-ups, instead focusing on using synths to create an actual melody that followed some sort of pattern for a prolonged period of time.
All was great until, at a softer (relatively speaking) point in the song, Skrillex yells “BANGARANG” which shattered any hope of me becoming a fan. There’s nothing like an artist yelling the title and only words of one of his most famous songs during the song that really sets me off.
Although I literally had the sound of Skrillex in my ears for another three hours after the car ride, I felt as if I had delved into a culture that I had yet to explore. For a period, I was open to new ideas, putting past judgments and snobberies aside, ready to learn what high school-aged ravers and so many of my peers I guess already know: Skrillex is loud and pretty annoying.
It’s easy to hate on something, but it’s hard to hate on something and then give it a chance only to realize you were right to hate it in the first place.
ANDY VERDEROSA retired from the rave scene in 2001 and continues to live a quiet, post-dubstep life. You can reach him at asverderosa@ucdavis.edu.