Not exactly ravers and too colorful for goths, so they've made it their own.
World Goth Day lands on May 22. The holiday occurs every year and it's a celebration of the lifestyle that many people celebrate 365 days a year — not just once.
Although, not everyone is aware of the holiday or why it's celebrated.
Historically, the Goth subculture kicked off in England during the early 1980s, and it spawned from the audience of gothic rock — a branch of the post-punk genre. However, I want to talk about a totally different group of Goths.
Let's talk about Cybergoths — a derivative of Goths.
You may have seen them online or in videos shared across social media platforms.
Cybergoths typically listen to techno/industrial music and usually wear primarily black clothing (much like other goths) but there's a hint of neon colors, clothing made of reflective materials, sometimes PVC, and huge platform boots.
You've got to give them some credit for their hairstyles, too.
Most of what you see isn't even their actual hair. Whether it's synthetic kanekelon hair, plastic tubing, tubular crin, rubber or foam strips, belts, or their real hair, they look pretty impressive. It's common to see a pair of goggles rested on their heads, too, or even a mask covering more of their face — proving that they were cool before the current pandemic's trends.
Although, Cybergoths aren't always seen as trendsetters.
"It can be dark, sexy, but more than likely it's really nerdy. I am not entirely sure if regular Goth kids accept them or even other ravers." — Mike Molinar
Over the years, Cybergoths have gotten a bit of a bad rap, too.
Nearly ten years ago, an incredibly entertaining video landed on YouTube, featuring a crew of German Cybergoths gathered underneath an overpass. Once the beat comes in, all of them break out into an electro-industrial dance in broad daylight — something you'd normally see in a club. It doesn't really have the same effect as it would inside a darkened room, club, or Goth Ball.
"From what I've experienced in the times I've attended Goth Balls, they were some of the nicest people I've ever met. Personally, I think they can look pretty cool in the right environment like in a dark room with lasers everywhere or some underground bar. But when these videos started popping up of them dancing in the broad daylight, well it's sort of like when they do last call at a club and turn on all the lights. You can't help but laugh." — Mike Molinar
Their efforts have clearly not gone unnoticed. Also, nowadays nearly everything becomes an internet meme so they're not alone.
Personally, I appreciate Cybergoths because they've contributed to the creative spirit of the internet, inspiring others to create their own renditions. They show others the importance of expressing yourself, even if it sounds wildly and visually complex.
Since the videos of dance parties in the streets surfaced online, Cybergoths have somewhat ranked up in their popularity status. People all around the world have noticed that you can easily pair any type of song to their dancing.
For example, someone paired up Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas" and it nearly brought a tear to my eye the first time I watched it.
Others have made videos, adding their own music to the amazing video, but they're not always as successful.
Now, aside from the videos online and their dark reputation slightly shattering, Cybergoths have continued to spread their joy and appreciation for all things loudly eclectic and over the top.
Despite the fashion really peaking in the 1990s, groups are still attaching their synthetic dreadlocks, putting on their thigh-high furry boots, and cleaning the lenses of their impressively designed goggles. It's extraordinary.
It's hard to keep a good goth down.
Also, it looks like they're having a heck of a time. The appearance and lifestyles of Cybergoths still live on today and continues to inspire creativity in more than just internet memes. In 2016, the feature film Spaceship premiered at SXSW Film Festival and centers around a Cybergoth girl who goes missing.
Also, there is still a store in London providing plenty of neon-colored materials for the Cybergoth that's itching to get out and explore.
In conclusion, the Cybergoth crowd is a subculture that we never knew we needed.
When you're feeling down in the dumps, or perhaps lacking inspiration, just know that there are groups of people out there dancing in platform boots, having the time of their lives, and enjoying the brightly colored lifestyle they've chosen to live.
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