Santa Monica at dusk, after the break!
It’s always funny writing these recaps weeks after an event actually happened. Sorry, but haven’t been in a writing mood lately. But I’m back to make a return.
This was my second attempt at visiting Santa Monica Pier for their Summer Tradition called “Twilight Concerts”. Mayer Hawthorne kicked off the 2016 season with some mellow R&B goodness. Made even better alongside the sunset on the gorgeously clear & breezy Santa Monica setting. Seeing a show at the Pier can be quite amazing. Perfect spot to your lover or kids. Captured all types of musical souls chilling on the worn down pier and adjacent sandy beach (with their huge ass speakers). We were hooked by the night’s entertainment.
Ohio transplant, Alina Baraz, opened the show with a soulful pop set. Don’t remember much from it. After 6 or so tracks, her shit got repetitive. Similar sounds. Wasn’t really impressed by her vocals or presence. It did, however, set a faint mood for all us picnickers. But anyone can sound good by sunset. Watch, she’ll make me eat my words in the months & years to come. I’m not saying she doesn’t have it. Just… needs more variety.
Happily, Mayer Hawthorne’s setlist got us all in the mood; rolling through a greatest hits collection of his past four efforts. His name might be small, but for anyone who has been covering artists as long as I have probably has a handful of amazing MH tracks to treat you with. And they are like embers burning a strong influential fire. Had “Backseat Lover” in my head the entire next day. Catchy stuff, huh?
I absolutely love eccentric venues, makes covering these shows different than seeing an artist at the Wiltern each night. And there is nothing like watching a concert on the sandy shores of the Pacific. The waves crashing, the wind blowing, and the sun setting. You must make time to drive an hour in traffic to experience one of the most amazing musical experiences in Los Angeles: that is… Santa Monica’s Twilight Concerts! There are 6 more shows left this season. I’m trying to fit one more into my schedule before the curtain closes. You should too!
