Some people who are new to festivals and live shows might be wondering, “What is two-step?” Since it’s a term that’s been coming up a lot in recent years, I’d like to explain what two-step is this time.
I hope you find it helpful.
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Mysterious steps!? What is the two-step?
First, please watch this video.
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the video aboveSiMThe movement that MAH (the vocalist) is doing at the beginning is called the “two-step.”
Some people seem to think it’s an abbreviation for “two-stage” at times, but...“Two-step” is abbreviated as “two-ste.”It is.
You can think of it as an evolved version of skipping or side-to-side jumps.
Step using your hands and feet in time with the music.
For first-time festival-goers it might be difficult at first, but during a live show the vibe is what matters most, so even if you can’t do it, you’ll be fine as long as you’re having fun and keeping step.
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Similar!? The difference between two-step and ska-dan
There’s something similar to the two-step called skadan.
I plan to write more about skadan in detail later, but to put it simply, the steps are different.
While the two-step involves stepping right-right, left-left, skadan is a dance performed in a running-like posture, keeping as low as possible, stepping right-right and left-left—two steps on each side—and alternately crossing the arms.
It’s hard to explain in writing, but if the steps move sideways, think of it as two-step; if they move vertically, think of it as ska dance. That should make the difference easier to understand.
Songs where a two-step occurs
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Mainly rock,Melodic hardcore punkpunk, hardcore,LoudI often see people doing two-step at shows by kei bands.
Artists often hype up the crowd as well.
Two-step is easier to dance if you move in sync with the snare sound.
MAH from SiM’s two-step technique is officially recognized by live kids!
It might be a good idea to use SiM’s songs and music videos as references when practicing the two-step.
Popular songs by SiM. Recommended masterpieces.
Etiquette you should know
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Saying “Live shows are meant to be enjoyed!” is not wrong.
However, if you don’t observe proper manners, you may make those around you uncomfortable, and you yourself might end up having an unpleasant experience.
Even two-stepping has its share of etiquette.
People who have just started doing the two-step, or those who get a little too hyped, may end up moving around more than necessary or bumping into others.
Of course, I don’t think anyone is doing it with malicious intent, but…Depending on the situation, it can be considered “bad manners!”so you should be careful.
The history of two-step
2-step (two-step garage) is a style of UK garage sound that became popular in Europe in the late 1990s.
It was named “two-step” = 2-step because there are two or more emphases in the rhythmic groove. Specifically, the first and third beats of the kick drum (hereafter, “kick”) in a single measure are accentuated, and the placement of the kick, other drums, and bass is less clearly defined than in previous genres, producing a sound that feels shifted from phrase to phrase.
As a musical direction, there is a strong tendency to emphasize sophistication, and events themed around 2-step often seek a stylish aspect, such as wearing suits or specifying a dress code. In terms of tone, the established direction has breadth, with a wide musical range spanning from aggressive sounds to moody ones.
It originally seems to be a term that came from club music.
It seems to have been named 'two-step' because there are two or more points of emphasis in the rhythm’s groove, and I think the origin is the same for the 'two-step' you often see people doing at festivals and live venues.
Wikipedia also states that “events centered on 2-step often call for stylish elements, such as wearing suits or specifying a dress code,” but this is not the case at modern festivals or live venues.
In fact, an outfit that's easy to move in is even preferable.
At live venues, it might be a good idea to take inspiration from the comfortable, easy-to-move-in outfits worn by the so-called Dickies crowd and live kids.
Reference:[Live Concert Outfits] When in Doubt, Try Imitating! A Guide to Live Show Styling
Lastly
If you’re new to festivals, you might be surprised by the energy and enthusiasm of the crowd around you.
There are many unique words and behaviors that arise at festivals and live shows, but I hope you can gradually build up your knowledge and enjoy a fun live-music life!