But if you ask Derek Staples, author of the article "Why MDMA is Destroying EDM", he thinks it's all about controlling the "concert's image": (Source: New York Times)
“It’s almost like they want to take the fun out of it,” Mr. Staples said. “Like they’re worried about people taking pictures of lots of kids with binkies and pacifiers in their mouth — like they’re trying to control the concert’s image.”
Pasquale Rotella, the head of Insomniac and EDC Las Vegas, defended kandi: (Source: YourEDM)
“One of my favorite aspects of dance music culture is the freedom of self-expression. Since the early days, dance culture has always been a non-judgmental environment where you could express your individuality through art, music and positive energy. It’s been especially amazing to see how the making and trading of kandi has evolved over the years. Kandi started in Southern California, and is now a tradition embraced by ravers all over the world! I love that these beaded works of art create a special bond between the giver and recipient when traded. Although I don’t wear kandi regularly, I save all of the pieces I’ve been gifted by Headliners and remember the stories behind each one. Whether you’re from SoCal or Singapore, wear your kandi proudly and continue to spread the good vibes!”
What do you think? As promoters try to find ways to mitigate injury and deaths at electronic dance music events, the new policies by the Mad Decent Block Parties and HARD might be the beginning of a wider trend.
If you want to buy tickets to Toronto's Mad Decent Block Party this Saturday featuring Diplo, Chance The Rapper, Grandtheft, Flosstradamus, Zeds Dead and more, click here.