Years ago your local raver had to endure long lines, crappy bathrooms, violent police, and dirty locations in their quest for a good dance. 10 years later, the fans’ loyalty has paid off.

Electric Daisy Carnival drew 30,000 people, some as far away as Vegas and Arizona. Held at the Los Angeles Coliseum, parking was plenty (though $15, ouch). The entry lines for tickets, guest list and searching were small and efficient.

Upon entering, there were various sculptures including a 7-foot metal ball that doubled as a percussion instrument. Flocks of candy ravers glowed, in all the finery, between the giant slide and vending booths. Maps were given that showed the lay of the land along with accurate DJ time sets.

There were five stages, each with their own environment and décor. There was no sound bleed between the areas. The carnival rides were free and interspersed among the event. Beer and water booths were liberally located. Large beers were not bad for $7 but the tiny cocktails weren’t very efficient. Huge bathrooms! Yes. Huge. No wait line-ever! And all water fountains worked.

The Cosmic Meadow had each tree separately lighted, in individual colors, and a nice lawn for chilling. A hookah lounge with exotic cushions was provided that anyone could enjoy. The Coliseum was majestically lit in yellows, oranges and reds. Three cheers to whomever did the lighting on this event. It was top-notch. Hula-hoopers performed and various poi boys spun. One performer played a violin in his long black ancient mariner coat while a fan blew his hair around. People were happy and friendly, and full of positive energy. I only saw one contigent of Euro-crack and not too may e-puddles or wannabe gangsters.

On the field were two other rides and the main music stage. There was plenty of comfortable seating and the lawn was green and comfy. At night the field became a blinking sea of glow sticks—quite a spectacle for high up in the bleachers. Huge projections swirled on the main staircase entering the field while the other end had the main stage. The full moon added its glow above. With all the people it was a majestic spectacle.

The Cosmic Meadow was ruled by house label, OM Records. Mark Farina bought in his techy style while Chuck Love spun warm soulful vocals. Kaskade was the main crowd pleaser. The large main area, the Kinetic Field, hosted the biggest names but the least interesting music. Deep Dish and Sandra Collins both delivered mundane sets. Paul Oakenfold’s set kept people happy but lacked the full hands in the air experience. So what about this Above and Beyond? If there was a top 40 rave station this is what you would hear. It is okay to play the old hits but could you least present them in an inspired order. Warm up act, Joaquin Bamaca played one of the most captivating sets of the night and he had his sound right. From Sandra Collins on, the main stages, sound lost half its base and volume.

Krusty Kutz and Breakfastaz gave great sets on the BassPod breaks stage. Station Warriors had someone talking over their songs. Not rapping, talking. Other annoying vocals included Infected Mushrooms adding a singer, who can’t sing.

On the Circuit Grounds, John OO Fleming raved on. Fast rolling progressive trance made sure you didn’t leave the dance floor.

The Neon Garden hosted by MCs Dino and Question Mark satisfied the crowd that was there just for the drum ‘n’ bass. Pendulum, Marcus Intalex, and Hazen, among others, filled out the line up.

Most the music wasn’t 100 %. The Neon Garden and Basspod stages delivered the best. Not for the lack of trying. It’s just that electronic dance music has seemed to lost some of its steam. Now that we got the mechanics of the party down, let’s get the music back up. All in all, however, one of the most beautiful raves ever.