Ok, so The Hollywood Bowl is where it’s at tonight—if we’re being honest. LCD Soundsystem, Hot Chip, and the not WIDELY known but incredibly sweet Sleigh Bells. That’s a show. An act with a nice track record, a couple tried a true songs, and a following (LCD) and a lesser known act that’s prepared to knock you on your ass (Sleigh Bells) [don't you wish I would've said, "Kick you in your sleigh bells?"]
But let’s say we’re not being honest. (Just kidding) But let’s say your like me and you’re feeling a little more introverted tonight. Maybe it’s the cloud cover. Maybe it’s the drizzle. Perhaps it’s the combination. But tonight feels like dimmed lights, a cozy setting, and tunes that hit on a deeper level. I think I found the spot…
All the way from the great state of Pennsylvania… Well, he actually lives in LA. And I’ve never actually been to PA. Is it great? Hmmm… Well, all the way from the pretty cool state of Pennsylvania, a state known for DOPE music (The Roots), comes Indie Folk singer-songwriter George Stanford. Those of you familiar with the Indie Folk scene may know George, others may remember his name from a band called Townhall, and still others may remember his name from nowhere and have no idea who I’m talking about right now. For the latter, George is what Billboard magazine calls; “… a serious talent” and I can’t say I disagree. Signed to Epic Records in 2006, George’s style is next of kin to the burgeoning Folk Revival movement that’s happening—a movement that’s happening every night in my roommate’s bedroom recording studio until 4 in the morning… (I still love you though, Andy). George went on to become the first act signed to the revived classic label Mercury with a release called “Big Drop” in 2008. With introspective and reflective storytelling, signatures of the genre, George is pouring his heart out for you tonight at The Hotel Café @ 11pm.
But WAIT! The band that actually caught my ear this morning, causing me to make an effort to encourage Los Angeles’ Folk faithful to boost The Hotel Café’s drink sales, is Parlor Hawk. Never heard these guys until about five minutes ago but I must say, not bad gentlemen. Again, they’re my pick because I’m hoping for a torrential downpour to cast an even more thought provoking vibe tonight. We can party tomorrow.
And tomorrow? (Saturday) LiTHUM has a treat for you. Reason is at the Aura in Studio City. If you haven’t seen this cat’s live show you deserve a beating on sight. Ok, that’s strong words, but for real… Why go up on the same night as DJ Quik (Key Club)? Cause he’s THAT dope.
(Oh yeah, and Sunday there’s some crazy South Africans called Die Antwoord at The Music Box. They on the rise. Peep ‘em.)
TONIGHT:
The Hotel Café (21+)
1623 1/2 N. Cahuenga Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Get there at 8 to show all the acts love. Recommendations start with Parlor Hawk at 10.