I believe names have meanings, kind of like words have definitions. On October 28th, the morning after the first night of Day of the Deadmau5, I embarked towards Detroit, MI to witness Liquid Stranger and a Detroit Bass City Halloween event held at the Russell Industrial Center. After completing a couple of missions en route to my ultimate goal, I arrived at the Atheneum Hotel half after 8pm to rendezvous with the boyz. After a quick change and pre-game, I was eager to clock in and continue my study of the characteristics that make artists and performances unique.
The Russell Industrial Center is a set of dilapidated, abandoned looking warehouses conditioned for hosting events. To this Electro Scribe, there’s something fascinating about adventuring in a building that has survived several eras, and industries. Not to mention, Halloween adds an element of foreboding that makes this location feel a perfect fit for a harvest time electronic celebration. The only other experience I’ve had to date in the Russell Industrial Center comes from March 10th, 2023 when I journeyed to attend the inaugural performance of Richie Hawtin’s ‘From Our Minds’ Tour, a wonderful occasion undoubtedly. As I reflected upon this experience, the shuttle from the Atheneum delivered my party, and we made our way inside.
Upon entry, one can either head straight through a doorway harboring a second, smaller stage, and eventually dumping into a VIP area adjacent the front right of the stage. Or, one can head left, past coat check and enter a long, rectangular feeling main arena with a couple of bars, some bathrooms, and a whole lot of space to find your place. I made my way to the VIP balcony, giving me an excellent view of the stage, performer, and the engaged audience. My entrance to the scene was greeted by Veronica Eileen, and she quickly shared pleasant tidings.
After I found an acceptable position, the room darkened, and Ms. Eileen stepped out front to appreciate and thank us in attendance for our turnout. Turns out, October 28th is Veronica’s birthday. So is our presence a lovely present? I’d like to think as such, which is most excellent, and what a delightful young lady! We are celebrating much tonight. Full moon? Check! Halloween? Yup. Birthday? Affirmative. What does her name mean? I’ll tell you later. Yeeeeee! Let’s focus on her music, a presentation of pulse and tempo that feels ambient at times, bass laden during parts, and interlaced with beautifully ethereal, mesmerizing vocals. Melodies and rhythms of this type delight my senses, regardless of season, and Sonorous is up next.
As Sonorous takes the stage, her voice is pleasant and complimentary, essentially picking up where Veronica left off. Sonorous means production of a full, rich, deep sound, impressive in speech. Then, heavy noise waves ensue, and I feel like I’m swimming in a dark ocean of sonic waters betwixt two siren sets, Veronica’s and Sonorous’s, slayers fashioning darkness like cloak and coif. Perhaps it’s the Halloween atmosphere mixing with elements of my role-playing roots, the soundtrack Sonorous weaves suggest to me, she possibly could be a dungeon master. Are sounds akin to swords? As I receive sonic slashes, my mind notices a God blink, and I catch a momentary flow.
“Sonorous storms forward without remorse. Through her selection, she charts the course. Amidst darkness, her rhythms deliver heavy force. Metaphorically speaking, almost too much to explain, how this gentle figure keeps such power contained. Overwhelming odds? Never. Situated upon a shore of sound, Sonorous’s songs soothe.”
Halloween, with Liquid Stranger and company in Detroit, was an audio smorgasbord of standout performances rife with positive messages, just like I’ve come to know Martin to represent. He’s a brave and enriching soul, constantly inspiring people through his readiness to flow. Polite, well-mannered and meaning, he curates through courtesy and kindness. Follow his example, and you’ll often find yourself in favorable circumstances. Even when we don’t, look forward with optimism, and don’t let instances of adversity break your spirit. Oh, and before I go, Veronica Eileen means brilliant, radiant, truthful image: happy belated birthday to her, and may we all enjoy our lives and days of beginning like they are meant for celebrating our time blessed upon this Earth.
Be well, be successful. Bear Swiftly.
–Electro Scribe–
