On one of my trips a few years back to the Washington, DC, I remember reading about this monthly dance party event, called Blowoff, that was all the rage. A creation of DJ/remixer/producer Richard Morel (of Pink Noise fame) and former Hüsker Dü frontman Bob Mould, Blowoff is not just a mainstay of the DC nightlife scene, but also a critically acclaimed success in NYC and San Francisco and headed here to Chicago over Memorial Day weekend. I recently spoke with Morel about the event.

How did Blowoff come about?
I met Bob (Mould) about seven years ago and we started working on an artist album called Blowoff. During that process we decided to start a party with the same name. It all started very organically with us passing out flyers on the street to people we wanted to come to our party.

What kind of music can one expect at a Blowoff party?
Bob and I switch off DJing throughout the night. He's more electro and plays some indie rock whereas I play house and dance music.

Is there synergy?
Actually it works quite well between Bob and I and there's a good musical flow to the night. We also have Nick Lopata mixing in live video during the party. It makes for a really interesting and fun night.

What kind of crowd does Blowoff attract?
It's mostly a gay crowd with the majority of guys in their 30s and 40s, but we get plenty of 20-somethings and also guys in their 50s.

You've taken Blowoff on the road. Is there a big difference from city to city.
We do bi-monthly Blowoffs at Highline Ballroom in NYC and have been out to San Francisco at Slim's a few times. There's actually a comfortable commonality about the parties. They are communal, friendly, music-oriented events with little or no attitude from the folks who are there. When we're not spinning, both Bob and I are hanging out with everyone, enjoying ourselves as well.

The Chicago Blowoff event takes place over Memorial Day weekend on Saturday, May 23, at Metro (3730 N. Clark St.). 11pm-4am. $15. For more info: www.blowoff.us