The lead guitarist from the Screaming Trees raised his right hand, held it for brief moment, then strummed out some punk chords, causing the place to transform into shirtless bodies slamming against one another. This was my first mosh pit experience, and I loved it. After that, I sought out every opportunity to mosh or stage dive with fellow music fans. My clothing has been torn, sure, but I’ve never been hurt. That’s because mosh pit fans take care of each other.
Call them codes, rules, or best practices, there are some primary behaviors to embrace when moshing. Over on FasterLouder.com.au, Emily Kelly offers “The Six Golden Rules of Moshpit Etiquette.” Here are three, with quotes attributed to Kelly, to get you started.
1. Pick People Up When They Fall Down
“It is the responsibility of absolutely everyone to do this. If you’re feeling like a particularly sensitive Samaritan, verbally check that they’re okay before returning to your limb flailing.”
2. Know That Proximity Means Responsibility
“Standing on the edge of a pit does not exclude you from its electric little ecosystem. Don’t stand aside and get furious when it spits out sweaty, drunk dudes occasionally and don’t be disgusted when its tentacles attempt to tug you in.”
3. Don’t Crowd Surf When There’s No Music
“The brief rest between songs is a time when people tend to check themselves. Is my wallet still there? Yep, good. Is my ankle okay? Umm, maybe.”
Please check out FasterLouder.com.au to learn the other three rules. You might even consider posting these rules in your venue when you know there’s going to be a high chance of some moshing going on.
(Image: Ben Levin/Creative Commons)
