ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the relationships between Electronic Dance Music Culture (EDMC) and religion, meaning and spirituality. It briefly outlines some of the existing work in this area before presenting evidence of elements of religiosity found in EDMC during my research. A brief explanation of the historical roots of EDMC is followed by an investigation of transcendent experiences, of how these are perceived, the use of drugs to trigger them and how they relate to trance and possession. Evidence from the field of ethno-musicology is discussed in relation to EDMC, as is the way in which music and dance interact. The effect of individualization within postmodernity is addressed, as is EDMC as a ritual technology for social construction, creating community and openness with others. In conclusion, EDMC spirituality is defined and discussed.
