The Last HI-NRG Ravers in Mexico

Every other Friday is Hi-NRG night at the Patrick Miller club in Colonia Roma, Mexico City. The night celebrates a type of disco with an electronic sound and a high-speed beat that was popular worldwide in the 80's. Although the form's worldwide popularity has ebbed, in Mexico City it is still alive, and its fans continue dancing to it in an almost religious way.

In 1983 Robeto Devesa, a Mexican DJ better known as Patrick Miller, started organizing parties in downtown Mexico City's Journalists Club. He imported the latest hits before anyone else, and the parties became mythical. Patrick turned into a character and a legend, adored by fans who danced weekly to the Hi-NRG rhythms; and his name became synonymous with epic raves. This is why Patrick Miller's followers, who call each other Patricios, have managed to keep this style of music alive, despite its being consider old fashioned in the countries in which it originated.

In the early 90's, Devesa decided to search for a permanent home to foster his sounds, lights, and lasers. Thus he founded the Patrick Miller club, which opens its doors every Friday in Colonia Roma to let parishioners dance like the gods.

We went with Jorge, better known as Padawan, to the house where he meets with his buddies—other members of the Banda Loca—before heading to their favorite club. Then we travelled with them to the Patrick Miller club, to better understand what makes Hi-NRG nights way more than just a regular disco party.