As the EDC Week 2014 lineup was slowly being released one of the first events to be announced was Above & Beyond at Wet Republic and there was no second thoughts about going to this event. The pool parties during EDC Week are part of the whole Las Vegas experience and if you’ve never been to one we’d highly suggest planning on it next year.
Every pool party venue in Las Vegas recommends arriving early to guarantee entry if you have a ticket and there’s a good reason for that, a lot of people go to these things. We arrived shortly after 1:00 pm and the line was really long with party goers ready for some Group Therapy by the pool. ProTip: Bring some drinks for the line if you arrive late (thank you Las Vegas for allowing drinks everywhere)! Bring a bottle of water as well to stay hydrated if you’ll be drinking alcohol.
Before you can get inside of Wet Republic you’ll be searched more thoroughly than you probably were going through airport security. Wallet was opened, cash was flipped through and a complete pat down was completed as well. This isn’t a complaint in any way, just a mention to let those know who may be planning on going in the future. Think about it though, you’re going to a pool party, you shouldn’t need more than your wallet and cell phone.
Once inside Wet Republic was massive. A giant pool in taking up the middle of the venue, cabana’s surrounding the perimeter, cabana’s to the sides of the DJ booth, a large LED wall, a big area between the pool and the DJ booth and a giant bar behind the booth. The sound was crisp and clear throughout the venue and arriving just before Above & Beyond stepped up to the decks we had no problems finding dancing space in front of the booth.
It’s hot in Las Vegas so if you’re going to be spending time in the pool and sun you can easily find shade in the area behind the DJ booth where the bar is to cool down and relax a little. Above & Beyond was a sold out event and there was no problems finding open space.
For those who don’t have a “beach body” don’t feel intimidated by what you may see in any pictures. The crowds are happy, non judgmental and just looking to have fun like everyone else.
When Tony and Paavo of Above & Beyond stepped inside the DJ booth the place erupted in cheers and smiles and everyone was ready for some Group Therapy. The duo played their signature sounds along with hits Alchemy, Sticky Fingers, Thing Called Love, Satellite, On My Way to Heaven and of course Sun & Moon. Any fan of Above & Beyond should take any chance they can get to see these guys in a setting like this. It’s the third time I’ve seen them at an outdoor venue like this and each time is unique and special in its own way. You aren’t packed into club. You’re not at a massive festival main stage. You’re with your friends in a place where there’s room to move and everyone is relaxed and there to just let loose in the sun.
Throughout their set a lot of people were sweating from their eyes. It could’ve been tears of happiness as well. The power of music is amazing.
When the set was over Tony and Paavo looked at each other and shared a strong hug proving how much they love what they do. It didn’t appear forced or planned, it just happened. Paavo then took some time to sit on the edge of the DJ booth and shake hands and share a small moment with the crowd.
I wouldn’t hesitate to visit Wet Republic again for EDC Week 2015.
Here are some Above & Beyond event photos from Wet Republic’s Facebook page.
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