written by Jenn Sherry for LAist

All I have to say is The Do LaB knows how to party. And I’m not talking Sunset Strip or even Vegas party, I’m talking about that scene in Matrix Reloaded where thousands of people are dancing like sexy savages to bass pumping house beats party.

The kid sister of Burning Man, Lightning in a Bottle is a green, giant, outdoor adult playground, where you can dress the way you want, dance the way you want, and take in as much as you can handle. It went down last week in Santa Barbara and I'm still glowing.

The “vortex” in which we roamed for three days was full of more stimuli than I ever imagined. To put it lightly there was PLENTY of drugs and sex roaming the campsite (which I did not deny), but that’s not what it’s all about. Deep down this community truly cares about the environment, spreading love to one another, and having the time of their lives.

One of the most attractive groups of people I’ve ever seen at a festival; the costumes, the face paint, and the art was visually stunning. There were so many outstanding performances I don’t have room to mention all, so here are a few…

Lucient Dossier Vaudeville Cirque is always an absolute treat to watch, Bassnectar rocked the Tree House dome into a frenzy, and Heavyweight Dub Champion brought the main stage home on Sunday night. Sammy Bliss was my favorite dance DJ on Saturday night- don’t think I’ve ever danced that fierce.

My favorite live performance was from Kid Beyond. The man can beat box and it’s mind blowing. Also Soul Eye is one of the best freestyle rappers I’ve seen in a while.

Last year this unknown festival lost money…this year it tripled in size and Do Lab should be proud. Call me a goddamn hippie, but it’s one magic carpet I’d ride over and over again.

photos by Jenn Sherry for LAist

Jenn is the host of Strictly Live which airs on Thursdays on MusicPlus TV