Ever feel the urge to release that creature inside, who itches to groove to the fresh sounds of “Thriller”? Or kick it on a ladies night out when “Girls Just Want To Have Fun”?

Even though it seems as if days of fresh beats are far away and new jams of booty grinding, lustful rap have slammed the clubs, there’s a place in Athens (time machine not required) where anyone can soak themselves in the carefree vibes of ’80s culture and feel like a virgin, touched for the very first time.

At club 8e’s, every night is ’80s night.

When owner Mark Bell decided to transform his gothic-pegged Dagger Lounge into club 8e’s in August, he shot for luring a more diverse crowd who craves the sweet sounds of ’80s pop, bee-bop dance and the cultural fusion of gym attire and plastic-beaded flair.

“I just thought it’d be fun to have a bar devoted to ’80s culture,” he said. “It was a very pivotal time for culture and fashion.”

Trying to change the mood of the venue, he decided to add attractive features such as a giant outdoor smoking patio, crazy ’80s decorations and arcade games, like the infamous Mrs. Pacman.

Although it’s not common for people to attend in ’80s costume, some will occasionally throw on some leg warmers, pull the sleeves off of their shoulders and call it chill.

“I have so many outfits, like skirts and sequins,” said senior Nickie Loftin, as she bellowed out the chorus to her favorite ’80s song.

Even though most people don’t dress up for the club, there are times when ’80s attire is a must.

8e’s has been known to hold socials for sororities
and fraternities with an ’80s theme, and it’s planning to have a costume ball in the spring.

“If I had a group of friends and I knew it was going to be a big thing, I’d definetely dress up,” said Athens resident David Knowlton when he thinks about having a full-fledged ’80s bash.

Besides 8e’s catering only to the decade’s crowd, any guest will notice how diverse the crowd actually is.

People from all age groups, every ethnicity and all cliques can find a common ground and let out a huge cheer together when any headlining ’80s song jams through the speakers.

Offering a different crowd every night, 8e’s can either seem like a complete bomb or a raging good time.