Rave New World

Taken at the Electric Zoo festival, Randall's Island, New York, 2017. By Michael Vazquez @musicfestivalstreetphotography, copyright 2021. Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera with Canon EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM lens, ISO 200, f/5.6, 1/250 sec. Rising above the isle of Randall like a stately, foofy-eared 21st century Sphinx, this festy-fortified Wook is living her best-life-halcyon days, adorned in full rave regalia, rendered functionally efficient by way of a hydration pack and metallic pyramid-motif dust mask with matching bra (she was one of several wearing this scarf ‘n top combo, and it was heartening to see ravers amused by their coinciding style choices, rather than taking same as an existential affront). With a backpacked hoodie at the ready for the alternating climes of a Labor Day weekend, and well-strapped Trip Glasses serving as eye-soul guardians of her riddle, and enhancers of alternating mind states, she was ready to experience – individually and with her fellow pilgrims – profound personal wonder at the late summer sunset and coming, charmed twilight.