Ah, The Volks in Brighton, a venue that holds a special place in my heart and a questionable amount of my past. If you’ve ever strolled along the seafront of Brighton, you’ll know it’s not just another club, it’s a legendary sanctuary where basslines meet euphoria, and friendships are forged over shared experiences and questionable decisions
A Bit of Background: The Volks’ Heritage
First opened in 1993, The Volks has long been a cornerstone of Brighton’s nightlife. Located right on the beachfront, it’s a beacon of hope for those searching for a good time and a space to lose themselves in music. With its unique atmosphere and vibrant energy, it draws in both locals and tourists like moths to a neon flame. The moment you step through its doors, you’re greeted by the thumping beats of DNB (and other genres if you’re into that sorta thing ;)), the chatter of fellow ravers, and that unmistakable smell of excitement mingling with the sea air
The Volks has hosted an eclectic mix of acts over the years, from indie bands to some of the biggest names in electronic music. Legends like Goldie, Roni Size, and Andy C have graced the stage, providing the soundtrack for countless unforgettable nights. Every corner of the venue seems to vibrate with stories from the past, echoing the laughter, the heartbreak, and the pure joy of its patrons. It’s the kind of place where you can feel the heartbeat of the city, pulsing in time with the music
From Past Demons to Present Joy
Now, let’s get a bit more personal, shall we? The Volks is not just a nightclub for me, it’s a monument of transformation. It’s the backdrop for my journey through addiction, recovery, and ultimately finding my place in a community that embraces all walks of life
You see, back in my raving days, The Volks was a double edged sword. On one hand, it was a magical escape where I could dance like no one was watching and lose myself in the music. On the other, it became a playground for my demons, a place where my drug abuse spiraled out of control. I could fill an entire chapter (or five) with the stories of wild nights spent at The Volks, each one more ridiculous than the last. Sorry, bouncers, I know we had our run ins!
During these chaotic escapades, I also met some of the most important people in my life. I forged friendships over shared experiences, both the highs and the lows. I met fellow ravers who were just as lost as I was, united in our quest for connection, even if it was temporarily found in a haze of smoke and music
DNB Nights: The Heart of The Volks
Now, let’s talk about the music, the lifeblood of The Volks, DNB (Drum and Bass). It’s not just a genre, it’s a way of life. When you step into The Volks on a DNB night, you’re enveloped by an energy that’s palpable. The bass of that soundsystem reverberates through your bones, and the beats pulse through your veins like a heartbeat. It’s the kind of atmosphere that makes you forget everything outside those walls, if only for a few hours
The DNB scene at The Volks has a rich history. From the very beginning, this venue has attracted some of the biggest names in the game. The likes of DJ Hype, LTJ Bukem, and Goldie have all graced the decks, providing the soundtrack for countless nights filled with dancing, laughter, and maybe a few questionable life choices
And let’s not forget the local talent! The Volks has been a launching pad for many budding DNB DJs and producers. I remember the first time I set foot in the venue, completely in awe of the talent that surrounded me. I had just begun dabbling in DJing, mixing tracks in my bedroom while trying to convince myself I was the next big thing. The atmosphere was electric, and I felt like I was witnessing a musical revolution
As I delved deeper into the DNB scene, I started connecting with other DJs and artists. We shared tips, tricks, and even a few embarrassing stories about our early attempts at mixing. It was during those nights at The Volks that I realized this wasn’t just a phase, it was a community
The Community Spirit
One of the most beautiful aspects of The Volks is its community. It’s a place where people from all walks of life come together, united by a shared love of music and dancing. Whether you’re a seasoned raver or a newcomer looking for a good time, you’re welcomed with open arms. The staff, in particular, deserve a special shoutout. They are the heartbeat of the venue, always ready with a smile, a drink, and a friendly chat
I can still recall the countless nights spent at the bar, laughing and joking with the staff while waiting for the next act to take the stage. They’ve seen it all, from the ecstatic revelers to the slightly less coordinated dancers (guilty as charged). I once attempted to show off my “sick moves” while holding a drink, and let’s just say it ended with a rather embarrassing slip and a lot of laughter from everyone, including the bouncers
The Sobriety Shift: A New Perspective
Three years into sobriety, I expected that my love for raving would dwindle, but it’s actually grown stronger. There’s something incredibly liberating about embracing music and dancing without the haze of substances. I can now appreciate every beat, every drop, and every moment without the fog of addiction clouding my judgment
Walking into The Volks sober is a completely different experience. The music hits differently, it resonates on a deeper level. I can remember every laugh, every conversation, and every moment I share with my friends. It’s as if I’ve been given a new pair of ears and a clearer mind, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the atmosphere
One of my favorite aspects of the venue now is the diversity of the crowd. You have the seasoned ravers who have been there since the beginning, newcomers wide eyed and ready to experience the magic, and everyone in between. It’s a melting pot of personalities, all coming together to celebrate life through music
A Venue of Transformation
The Volks has seen countless transformations, not just in the music scene but in the people who walk through its doors. Each night is a new opportunity for growth, friendship, and maybe even redemption. It’s a place where you can dance away your sorrows or celebrate your victories, depending on where you are in life
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some truly inspiring individuals at The Volks, people who have faced their demons, overcome obstacles, and emerged stronger on the other side. There’s a shared understanding among the patrons, we’ve all been through our struggles, and music has brought us together to celebrate our triumphs
My Favorite Memories: Laughs and Lessons
Let me take a moment to share some of my most cherished memories from The Volks. There was one particular night when the venue was hosting a special DNB event. The energy was palpable, and I found myself in the midst of a dance circle with a few friends. As we took turns showing off our moves, I decided it was the perfect opportunity to bust out my signature spin and fall maneuver. Spoiler alert: it did not go as planned
As I attempted to spin, my foot caught on the edge of someone’s shoe, and down I went, crashing to the floor like a starfish. The crowd erupted in laughter, and for a moment, I felt the familiar heat of embarrassment rising in my cheeks. But then, something magical happened. A fellow raver came over, helped me up, and encouraged me to keep dancing. It was in that moment that I realized the spirit of The Volks wasn’t just about the music, it was about the people
The Healing Power of Music
It’s no secret that music has a healing power. It can lift you up when you’re down, remind you of good times, and help you process your emotions. For me, The Volks has become a safe haven, a place where I can let go of my worries and just be
I remember a particularly difficult week when I was grappling with my sobriety. I felt isolated and alone, and the weight of my past choices was pressing down on me. But then, I made the decision to head to The Volks for a DNB night. As soon as I stepped inside, the music washed over me, and I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging
I danced like nobody was watching, losing myself in the rhythm. Each beat was a reminder that I was alive, that I had fought my demons, and that I was finally free. In that moment, I realized that The Volks was more than just a venue, it was a sanctuary for lost souls like me
The Joy of Connection
Connection is what makes The Volks so special. It’s where I’ve formed friendships that have stood the test of time. I’ve met fellow ravers who’ve become my closest friends, sharing laughs, tears, and everything in between. We’ve danced together through the highs and lows of life, creating a tapestry of memories that I cherish deeply
I remember one night when I bumped into a friend I hadn’t seen in ages. We hugged like we’d been separated for years, even though it was only a few months. We spent the night reminiscing about old times, dancing like fools, and laughing until our sides hurt. In that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the community that The Volks had created
Conclusion: The Volks as a Beacon of Hope
As I reflect on my journey at The Volks, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences I’ve had and the lessons I’ve learned. This venue has been a witness to my struggles and triumphs, a place where I’ve discovered the power of community and the healing nature of music
The Volks is more than just a nightclub, it’s a beacon of hope for those seeking connection, understanding, and a place to celebrate life. Whether you’re a seasoned raver or a newcomer, there’s a place for you within its walls
So here’s to The Volks, may it continue to thrive, bringing people together through the universal language of music. And if you ever find yourself in Brighton, make sure to stop by. You might just find yourself dancing the night away, surrounded by like minded souls, and discovering a piece of yourself you never knew existed
And who knows? You might even catch me trying to show off my dance moves, just be prepared to catch me if I fall!
