The second coming of Hexed Miami’s goth roller skating event “Bats on Wheels” had drawn in the local alt scene on Saturday, Nov. 15.
In the wake of families and children leaving for the night, the midnight event ran from 11:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m under the cover of dark and tenebrous lighting. Many guests and organizers draped in black descended upon Miami Roller Rink, accentuating the shadows of the bygone 80’s decor.
Yelps from novice skaters attempting to balance themselves were drowned out by DJ Dino’s mixes.
Dino Rio’s instagram boasts not only the achievements of photography, twitch streaming, and drumming but also the title of Malicia Goth Nights’ resident DJ.
Kimberly Andrews, professionally known as DJ Rippin Kittin also played a hand in keeping the vibe of the roller skating rink moving forward with equally enriching darkwave tracks.
The mood was heightened by a live performance by post-punk band Obsidian, keeping spirits high.
Since this event, Obsidian has been quite the busy bee performing concerts, with their next ones being Will’s Pub in Orlando on July 4 and at Propaganda in Lake Worth on Aug. 1.
Obsidian let loose with crunchy synths and an aggravated bass that fueled the adrenaline of all those rolling by.
Though the rink sold its usual snacks and drinks, with the occasional alcoholic beverage or two, there was another eye-catcher for attendees: shopping.
Along the Memphis-styled carpets, eight vendors tabled a small market for alternative consumers with alternative tastes.
With a sign that said “Welcome Foolish Mortals”, Jessica, owner of Ghoulish Stitch Co. invited buyers to a world of spooky-themed coin purses, Frankenstein glasses and scariest of them all: Lafufus.
Known as Lovesick Cherries, Dzhuliana Khalilova is no stranger to the business of alternative goods.
Specializing in custom-made, 1/1 jewelry, Khalilova’s work brings character to razor blade motifs, ruby-colored stones, spiky chokers and interlocking chains.
Lovesick Cherries does not stop at the intricacies of jewelry—rather, Khalilova works on adding custom, gritty art prints akin to the quality of the successful mangaka Q Hayashida.
Lovesick Cherries currently operates as an in-person business, vending only at the events Khalilova goes to.
But jewelry is half the battle when it comes to edgier appearances. Alternative vintage clothing vendor Sarah Garcia displayed darker apparel in her pop-up store Viuda Alegre.
Vintage fashion didn’t end with Sarah, since Julie, owner of Meow Haus Vintage had wares to share.
Animal print bags, grommet belts, brocade shirts were sold by Julie and Brian—Julie’s friend. As vendors, Brian said that the best interactions he and Julie had were by far those with the younger crowd who take on the mantle of being goth.
“We’ve been around for a while; it’s great to see all the younger crowd—the next generation…Those are the interactions that are exciting for me. It’s really great to meet new folks and to meet the next generation that’s coming up,” Brian said.
Garbed in a Diva Destruction tee, eventgoer Jenna Sprague commented on her philosophy with gothic fashion.
“I prioritize comfort and like a look from the ‘90s…that kind of low-key vibe. I don’t like feeling like I’m putting on a costume. I like feeling like I’m wearing something that is functional…”
Sprague further mentioned the tie-in between the blending of entertainment like rollerskating and goth.
“I think it’s just that. [Goth] can be everything. It’s an all-encompassing lifestyle. Because of the music it has this community that surrounds it, and you can do anything.”
This was a sentiment of freedom echoed by another eventgoer, Genesis Vargas.
“Being alternative is not like being everyone.
…It’s not going to fulfill you in the long run if you’re trying to be something you’re not. Sometimes trying new things that might scare you a lot will bring out a side of you that you never really knew or had a chance to really get to. You need to step out of your comfort zone…I know it’s a little scary but in the end it’s you,” Vargas continued.
Overall, the November event allowed for the goth community to reunite under a common banner of innocent fun, joyful skating, and of course, memorable music. Hexed Miami’s next event features touring artists The Shape, and The Treasury at Las Rosas on June 24.
