Ahhhh, Sunset Junction, you were hot, fun and definitely showed me a good time. Yes, that’s right, I had a one night stand with the Sunset Junction Block Party on Sunday and I have to admit I was impressed. I was expecting a little more of a “festival” atmosphere but this was distinctly a let loose block party. From random bands in the street, to carnies on the midway and as much unhealthy fried food as you could shake a stick at, this party went off without a hitch.
Arrival time was 4pm which was perfect because it was the moment that Fitz and the Tantrums went on. Doo-wop and soul from the heart. It looked like they thoroughly enjoy what they do and I think the crowd understood and responded with enthusiasm.
Next on my agenda was Bobo meets DJ Rhettmatic (not “Rhettamatu” as it was listed on the website and flyers, sorry dude). Bobo is a well known percussionist and Rhettmatic is part of LA’s own World Famous Beat Junkies. I was blown away!!! So was the crowd as dancing seemed to be the only thing anyone could do, pretty epic.
***Beer Break***
After a short walk to the southern end of Sunset I arrived just in time to see Long Beach’s Crystal Antlers play to an appreciative, before sunset soaked mass. I’ve seen Crystal Antlers quite a few times but this had to be a fave. The sound was good, stage was big enough for the five of them and they sounded like they should blow up. Come on people, get on the wagon if you haven’t already.
After a walk back to the complete opposite end of Sunset I was greeted by a GIANT crowd for Mayer Hawthorne & the County. It was almost as if this was the headlining moment of the night and Mr. Hawthorne didn’t disappoint. I’d have to say that this was a highlight of my music filled summer, after Lightning Bolt at Pitchfork of course. The band commanded the stage, got people dancing in the streets and crowd participation was immense.
Last but not least we had Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros to close the festivities. Sure, they were *a bit* late starting but it was their hometown and I think they wanted to enjoy it. Enjoy it I did and evidenced by the completely filled street, broken down fences and smiles for miles so did everyone else. I think the Topanga Canyon, everyone and their mother in the band playing every instrument possible, hippie-ish vibe can’t help but put people in a good mood. Alex and Jade’s parents got priority seating front stage and I could see that they were quite proud. From beginning to end not one band member ever stopped smiling, in fact, I think they had to try not to smile too hard and burst into laughter. I’ve never seen a band enjoy a set more, it was beautiful.
Beautiful, a good word to end this post on. I wouldn’t hesitate to attend this event for as many years as it keeps on.
Oh yeah!!! I almost forgot about a bejeweled and hair dyed Lee Sratch Perry picking up his bag and walking off stage, still singing mind you, halfway through his last song. Strange as could be. Hahaha.
