Last May, Stella Blues was packed. Wall-to-wall, people were dancing as Sunken Disco DJed their farewell performance in New Haven. Sunken Disco’s events, known for bringing funk, house, trance, and techno to the city, had become incredibly popular.
The last one, I could barely find room to dance.
Packed dance floor at Sunken Disco event
It was a testament to their success, but also highlighted a problem. Sunken Disco, unfortunately, was a temporary fixture. The DJs were European citizens in New Haven for work, and with their departure, Sunken Disco vanished (or relocated). This exit left a void, but it also sparked an idea: New Haven is clearly hungry for more dance party options.
New Haven isn’t completely devoid of dance spots. We have Bar, a reliable choice for pop and hip hop. Pacifico and Barcelona offer Latin rhythms. Brother Jimmy’s plays pop, alongside a side of… less harmonious activities.
Two men in collared shirts talking, suggesting a "frat bro" atmosphere
However, no venue truly specializes in electronic dance music, or EDM. While Van Dome might cater to EDM, its name alone is a deterrent for some. Yet, New Haven has a significant European population, many connected to Yale, and Europeans are known for their love of dancing to techno until the early hours.
A person in a white coat, possibly representing European professionals in New Haven
The Case for an EDM Club in New Haven
So, is it time for New Haven to embrace a dedicated EDM club? Maybe not a full-week operation, and certainly not something open every night. But perhaps a Thursday to Saturday schedule could work. Or, an existing bar could dedicate a few nights a week to EDM events. Even one dedicated EDM night a week would be a step in the right direction.
Event advertisement for Adam Parisi in Hamden, suggesting local EDM interest
Toad’s Place occasionally dabbles in “EDM,” but its reputation and undergrad-heavy crowd aren’t appealing to everyone. Some even joke about the sticky floors holding patrons captive. Despite these limitations, the success of Sunken Disco proves that a demand for electronica-focused dance clubs exists in New Haven.
The temptation to open another hip-hop club or Bar-alternative is understandable, given the success of places like Russian Lady, Vanity, and Black Bear. But perhaps it’s time for a change. Maybe catering solely to a young, college-centric demographic isn’t the only viable business model.
Long line of young people outside a club called Vanity
Who Would an EDM Club Serve?
An EDM club wouldn’t just cater to the European expats in New Haven. It would also appeal to a broader audience, including those who enjoy dancing but are looking for an alternative to the typical “twenty-something club scene.” While Bar is an option, the atmosphere can be overwhelming, even for those not seeking hookups. A dedicated EDM space could offer a dance environment less focused on typical bar/club dynamics.
Two DJs performing, suggesting a focus on music and performance
Of course, any dance club will attract a diverse crowd. However, an EDM club offers the promise of music beyond the usual pop and hip-hop rotation, appealing to those seeking genres like trance and techno.
The Next Step for New Haven Nightlife
Having established the potential, the hope is that a local business owner will recognize the opportunity and introduce an EDM night or venue. Perhaps existing venues like State House or Rudy’s could host regular electronic music events featuring DJs from New York or beyond.
A confused person shrugging, representing uncertainty about the future of New Haven nightlife
Sunken Disco demonstrated a demand for a specific type of dance event that New Haven currently lacks. Ignoring this demand might lead to more escape rooms and poke places, but it won’t address the desire for diverse nightlife options. New Haven deserves a vibrant and varied after-dark scene, and EDM clubs should be part of that future.
