Review: DONT WALK Launch Party

With the reveal of an entirely smashing website and Friday night’s launch party, DONT WALK is entering the 2013-2014 year with a palpable energy. On Friday night both standard and VIP ticket holders were greeted by a vast DONT WALK photo backdrop, one free drink, and access to a shot bar, spirit bar, and champagne bar. Perhaps the “one free drink” was a bit of enticing misnomer – to many a St Andrean’s chagrin, the free drink contained nothing noticeably throat-burning or head-dizzying. This minor disappointment was certainly no barrier to entering the social sanctuary of inebriation, as the shot bar, spirit bar, and champagne bar were fully equipped and generously flowing.

VIP members were treated to a cocktail reception, two complimentary drinks, free cupcakes, and goodie bags. Obviously, every discerning mammal loves goodie bags, especially when equipped with chocolates, cocktail vouchers for The Adamson, condoms (I’m flattered, DW), and an intriguingly vague invitation to an after party. Rocca and R-Bar was a refreshing change of scene, although perhaps slightly too large to comfortably accommodate the guests. The venue felt quite sparse, and the VIP lounge was particularly empty. The dispersal, however, actually lent a rather fluid and relaxed vibe to the evening. While many first years were disappointed by the event – admitting to having expected a “more dance-y kind of thing” – I found it to be positively refreshing. There was ample freedom to socialize without being drowned out by bruising speakers – I believe I actually maintained several full-length conversations, and nary a forced smile nor weak eye contact were necessary. It was clear that the event attracted an older audience, and was largely comprised of people directly involved with DONT WALK and friends of those involved.

The dance floor didn’t receive much attention until 1:00am, as music from DJs Calum Bryant, Theo Borgvin, and RAKSHA from Deadly Rhythm Glasgow beckoned the modishly clad attendees (along with the crowd of blokes in matching red shirts; still unclear as to what that was about). The music selection was nothing remarkable – I can recall bobbing along to some vague house music tracks, but it generally left a rather lukewarm impression.

What distinguishes DONT WALK from other functions is its impressive media and publicity handle. Its refined aesthetic has massive appeal, as best illustrated last night though the various merchandise on display. DONT WALK has embodied a signature style, and their custom-designed graphic t-shirts have an effortlessly cool-humanitarian-fashionista quality that makes me literally want them all. If you’re as keen and gluttonous as myself, you would have noticed and taken full advantage of the plethora of free truffles festooned on a platter behind the merchandise. Why were those guys hiding? Those were amazing. I would have paid fifteen quid just for those.

It’s been abundantly clear that the DONT WALK committee is a wealth of creativity, professionalism, and talent, making 2014’s DONT WALK event anxiously awaited and highly anticipated!

Images courtesy of PINUP