Columbia, SC: An Epic Night of Moshing and Music at Commie House
Last night, the DIY hotspot Commie House in Columbia, South Carolina, played host to an explosive concert featuring the local bands Split In Two and Detest The Throne. Fans packed the small venue, drawn in by the promise of gritty melodies and the chance to release their energy in a riveting display of moshing. With temperatures hovering around a comfortable 53°F under a clear sky, it was the perfect night for a live music experience!
What is Moshing?
For those who might not be familiar, moshing is a unique expression of concert appreciation, usually found within hard rock and punk shows. Defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as a “dance to rock music in a violent manner involving jumping up and down and deliberately colliding with other dancers,” it can sometimes look like a chaotic whirlwind near the front of the stage. But to the untrained eye, what seems like madness is a carefully orchestrated dance of community and fun.
The Spirit of the Pit
Local musician Diego “Raccoon” Thrasher of the hardcore band Rectoplasm caught moshing fever after he spotted it in a film about punk rock. “And I very much wanted to get in there,” Thrasher recalled, as they watched the crowd dive into the mosh pit while their own band’s music pumped through the room. “A little bit of it is adrenaline, but it’s also about the style.”
Attendees were smashing and swaying to the beats of Split In Two and Detest The Throne, and for many, this kind of engagement is a necessary release. Thrasher emphasized that while it may seem chaotic, there are unwritten rules that keep the experience enjoyable for everyone involved.
The Lowdown on Mosh Pit Etiquette
Since moshing can easily tip into an aggressive display, it’s important for participants to keep in mind a few guidelines so that the thrill doesn’t turn into a trip to the first aid station. Thrasher laid down the unofficial rules like a pro:
- Do observe the pit before diving in.
- Don’t intentionally hurt others.
- Do keep your arms close to your body.
- Don’t mosh while intoxicated.
- Do be mindful of how large the pit is.
- Don’t get angry over accidental contact.
- Do help someone up when they fall!
“I know that’s happened at a few shows I’ve been to,” said Thrasher, “and people have gotten kicked out or had a talking to because they target a person that’s just on the sidelines.” Knowing these guidelines allows moshers to enjoy the concert while also being mindful of their fellow enthusiasts.
What Really Goes Down in the Pit
While hardcore fans love the energy and excitement of the pit, the experience is often heightened by that feeling of respect and community spirit among moshers. As attendee Riley Smithson noted, “A guy was pulling someone from the back of the room into the pit, which wasn’t cool. Never pull someone into the pit.”
With bands like Split In Two and Detest The Throne pumping out heavy riffs, the vibe was electric! And whether you were flying through the air or standing back to soak it all in, it was clear that the night was about more than just the music. It was about connection—a sense of belonging forged through shared passion.
Shake Off the Haters!
So, while the music at Commie House might have been full of angst, the atmosphere was alive with positivity. As long as everyone follows the basic tenet of being a decent human being, moshing can be an experience filled with joy and exhilaration. Just remember: don’t be a jerk! Whether you’re an experienced mosher or a curious newcomer, there’s nothing like the thrill of releasing your energy in a crowd of like-minded individuals. Just hop into the pit, put your hands up, and enjoy the ride!
As the last notes faded and enthusiasm still filled the air, it was a night to remember in Columbia—one where music, camaraderie, and a bit of chaos came together and created unforgettable moments!
