West Indian Girl
In 1963, renowned chemists Bear Owsley and Nick Sands developed a strain of designer LSD which had a reputation for inducing tribal hallucinations. This strain of acid was called “west indian girl.” Flash forward forty-some years and however many psychedelic revolutions later to find the Los Angeles duo of Robert James and Francis Ten deciding to call their musical collaboration “West Indian Girl.”
Close your eyes, put on West Indian Girl’s self-titled 2004 Astralwerks debut, and feel how apt James’ and Ten’s choice of moniker is: the ensuing auditory hallucination will bring you back indeed, back to a time when Blur were considered shoegazers, when My Bloody Valentine wrote anthems posing as crystalline soundscapes, when U2 was more concerned about the great beyond than politics and Stone Roses vied with Primal Scream as the sexiest, spaciest, stonededest band around.
It’s not that West Indian Girl is derivative of those bands, or even sounds like them per se, as much as it is born out of a similar ethos. Like those bands, all deeply transformed by England’s post-Acid House movement, West Indian Girl is born out of a similar ethos: a devotion to the expansion of all things mental, musical and mood elevating, a desire to find that transcendent missing link between rock’s human pulse and electronica’s man-machine meltdown. At the same time, West Indian Girl are no mere Anglophile nostalgists but true products of their time and environment. West Indian Girl remain next-level, next-generation journey-to-the-center-of-your-mind rock, the v.2.0 version: songs like “Northern Sky” and the first single “Hollywood” suggest the abandon of a dreamy, slightly unreal Southern California landscape just as “Madchester” dance-rock evoked vagabond “free parties” in the middle of some remote pastoral field.
Indeed, West Indian Girl’s swirling, empyreal big-canvas sound draws from an evolution out of America’s own version of the Acid House “Summer of Love.” Growing up, Ten moved continuously from the East Coast through the Midwest (“My dad is Sicilian—he owned various… businesses, and there are Sicilians everywhere” is all Ten will say by explanation). James led a similarly nomadic upbringing, bouncing from Australia to Tucson, Arizona and then, when his mom passed away, headed to the Detroit area. After graduating high school, James sidestepped college in lieu of an extended road trip that landed him in Dallas, Texas circa the early ‘90s; by coincidence, Ten had landed there himself. Both found themselves living out a key chapter in American rave culture. Ecstasy just became illegal and still readily available in Texas back in those days, and Dallas soon became the epicenter for U.S. MDMA culture; there, these two like minds quickly found each other. “When Rob and I met, we combined resources and started throwing parties ‘the pioneer ranch raves’ we called them,” Ten explains.
As that phase of Stateside rave culture died down in the mid-‘90s, both pursued different musical trajectories. Ten gravitated to Los Angeles, where he tried to keep the “peace, love, unity, respect” vibe alive by throwing self-styled raves, only to find himself quickly in handcuffs. “We set up a bar in North Hollywood warehouse, and the authorities thought we were running a meth lab,” Ten groans. James, meanwhile, had shacked up in the Catskills “with a band that was more of an idea than a band. We spent most of our time stoned and never doing anything.”
By 2002, however, James had eventually joined Ten in Los Angeles, and West Indian Girl was born. Instead of playing live to audiences who didn’t know who they were (or care), James and Ten decided to build a home studio in an idyllic environment: placed high in the Hollywood Hills, its windows’ overlook deep into a lush canyon. The studio became “like Frankenstein with computers”—in other words, the ideal crucible to forge a unique sound out of disparate yet complementary influences. Initially, the two members of West Indian Girl make an unlikely pair, Ten with intense eyes and multiple tattoos, contrasted with James’ pensive, shaggy mystic quality; accordingly, James’ tastes from folk-rock to Underworld, Can and Kraftwerk, and the modal drone of Indian and African music, while Ten finds inspiration in everything from early Killing Joke and Japan to Jane’s Addiction and My Bloody Valentine. After a number of vocalist false starts, James took over vocals, with both collaborating the music; soon a raw, straight-from-the-hard-drive demo of “Dream”—an alluring Pink Floyd-circa-Syd Barrett-esque ballad rewired with hypnotic electronica—started circulating. “Dream” quickly found play on L.A. DJ Nic Harcourt’s radio show “Morning Becomes Eclectic,” a buzz-creating haven for new music on influential local station KCRW.
For their full-length, West Indian Girl strove to capture the lysergic immediacy of the “Dream” demo, so they set about producing their debut full-length in their bucolic home-studio getaway. In the tradition of classic debauched albums from the likes of Happy Mondays and the Rolling Stones through New Order and Primal Scream, West Indian Girl evolved out of some truly altered states, and gorgeously sounds it. “I’m not a big pot smoker, but Rob gave me a pipe as a present to start the record, and it benefited me,” Ten says. “The songs opened up—that’s how the album was realized.” “Drugs have their place,” James adds. “And I wouldn’t say this album was done under just the influence of pot, either. I see the benefits of every drug: use your imagination.”
Ten notes that West Indian Girl’s debut intentionally reverberates with “a positive feel that almost sticks out these days.” It’s the human quality to the album that proves most seductive, from the washes of analog Moog keyboards to the spooky harmonies alchemizing “Leave Tonight.” “In an age where so much is programmed, everything on this record is actually played, which gives it that warm feel,” Ten says. “People crave that realness.” “The music West Indian Girl makes is very touchy-feely,” James concludes. “If it feels right, it’s right.”
Bumbershoot
Oversize full color guide designed from scratch for One Reel’s Bumbershoot music festival in Seattle.
Yonatan Elkayam
On the stage and in the studio, Yonatan has become a permanent fixture in the Los Angeles music scene.
As a musician, producer, and composer, he is constantly creating on all ends of the spectrum. Focused on expanding his ever-growing portfolio as a producer & engineer, he is looking for his next project. From a single track to a full length album, Yonatan is equipped with vision, skills, gear, and a vast network of musicians to take your music to the next level.
Here are some tracks that really display Yonatan’s ability and diversity.
And the following are some notable highlights of his career so far :
❂ USC graduate; Degree in Comprehensive Sound Arts from Ex’pression Center for New Media.
❂ Studio work with George Clinton and Merl Saunders, as well as on stage with the Black Eyed Peas and the Crown City Rockers.
❂ Radio Recorders in Hollywood; Produced and engineered full time; worked with the legendary John Cale of the Velvet Underground and Lonnie Jordan of War.
❂ Collaborated with Money Mark of the Beastie Boys, and mixed a complete album released in Japan.
❂ Member of the band million/billion; toured the country (shared stages with Ray LaMontagne, Gomez, and Beck) and released their first full length album, Ready. Fire. Aim., through Universal in 2007.
❂ Recorded and toured with singer/songwriter Andrew Paul Woodworth.
❂ Accomplished composer; featured on TV shows such as King of Queens, Dr. Phil, Rachel Ray, and America’s Best Dance Crew.
Feel free to inquire about his availability and rates with me: Jaclyn Strong (323) 804-7558 or jaclyn@thecodega.com
The Source Code
The Source Code chronicles the real life story of a young woman whose path is forever changed after visiting the ancient Mayan Pyramid of Uxmal. From deep feelings of being alone to overwhelming feelings of complete connectedness, this intimate full-circle journey takes you from the jungles of Tikal, to the pyramids of Egypt, and to the living rooms of some of the Worlds leading experts. Her search for inner-knowledge leads her to uncovering profound ancient secrets…ancient secrets that will have a deep impact on the way we view each other and the World we live in today.
Cityzen
Cityzen started with songwriting partners Tobias Forrest and Jeff Line who used mind control to persuade four younger more talented musicians to enter a cacophony of noise. Nick Woods (drums), Chris Woods (keys) and Nick Lopez (bass) are unique players with mutant like musical abilities. In the eye of an electrical, instrumental storm the music dissolved into a blend of original “Roots” Rock sounds fused with Funk, Jazz, Reggae & Hip Hop influences. Although Cityzen is a fairly new band, it is consistently developing in many ways and looks to offer a variety of unique songs and styles. Our original project, “Invisible Mental Tenticles” is a compilation of raw and original “Living Room Sessions” that has evolved into the current full band set. Future live performances and studio recordings will shape an even more original and eclectic sound that provides listening pleasure and induces our audience with the impulse to dance. Whether we are at an intimate private setting or a full band venue, Cityzen simply wants to share the gift of entertainment. Thank you for any support or helpful feedback and we hope you enjoy our music.
Connie Lim
Fueled by the confident and playful spirits of Nina Simone and Feist, Connie Lim & The Forrest Philosophy stir up an earthy blend of blues-driven, folk-rooted, indie pop. Lim, nick-named an indigo child of our time, sings with young spirit and old soul. Her deeply inspired lyrics are backed by driving rhythms that are perfect for that good old getaway car of yours.
Add in Nick Reiter on guitar, Leo Budirahardjo on bass, and guest musicians on percussion, and you’ve got the perfect road-trip experience through the desert and towards the solitude you’ve been craving.
No matter how light or heavy the topic, Connie Lim & The Forrest Philosophy’s music has always intended to promote good-spirits. After all, the band’s name is a tribute to Forrest Gump, the man who didn’t really ever know where he was going with all of it, but who sure did try his best.
In a world that values speed processors, instant noodles and go-gurt, Lim insists on taking the time to allow her next record to be as honest as possible. Lim continues to live, record, write, and perform in Los Angeles’ first choice venues, including The House of Blues, The Mint, and The Viper Room. Just recently major network NBC showcased and interviewed Lim on Ted Chen’s morning show, Sunday LA.
The Mulhollands
The Mulhollands are a rock and roll band. The sound is tight, dirty…riotus. The live show is fast and sweaty. Once likened to, “a sweet melody playing over a homicide.” The new e.p. showcases the band’s ability to write trashy, dance-rock songs, sweet ballads, and dark, moodier pieces… all without straying too far from home.
The Shakers
The Shakers started as a licensing project between long-time friends and musical partners, Chris Lee (of Stillicide) and Ron DiSilvestro (formerly of Head. as well as other local bands). Ron approached Chris with the idea of writing and recording songs of all genres, utilizing Ron’s RDStudios (partnered with Phil Nicolo). Tom Laskas of MilkBoy Records quickly took notice of the early demos, and became the 3rd piece to the puzzle.
Tom Laskas brought with him a wealth of experience, including having managed Sharon Little’s tour with Robert Plant and Allison Krauss and Johnny Lange. It wasn’t long before the trio went into Philly’s own MilkBoy Recording studio to get started on their first record.
The first demos created a loud buzz in the Philly scene. It became clear that this licensing project was meant to transform itself into a show-stopping live performance monster, ready to rock the greatest local scene in any city.
Having laid down the foundation for the record, The Shakers set out to find the perfect “front man” for the project.
In January of 2009, with the help of Mike Lowe Music, LLC (Fat City Reprise, Naeemah and the Celebrities), Chris Lee made a 3-month trek to Los Angeles to continue the search. The search didn’t take long – the “front man” he found happened to be a power house female vocalist with an incredibly sexy style and a jaw-dropping vocal range.
Jodie Schell fit the group to perfection! Jodie, thanks to her experiences in the Automatic Music Explosion (produced by Mike Chapman), brought connections to every major club and venue in LA to the table. She and Chris Lee melded immediately and began preparing for their LA debut.
The Shakers premiered (with the help of their west coast rhythm section, Jeff Covey, bass, and Drew Skinner, drums) on Hollywood’s famous Sunset Strip to a capacity-crowd at The House of Blues. Five days later, the group released their first single from MilkBoy Recording Studios and RDStudios entitled, “Distress Signal.” They crossed to the east coast to be welcomed home to Philadelphia with a sold-out showcase for 93.3 WMMR’s Local Shots Live Cinco De Mayo Bash at Doc Watson’s. The next day, 93.3 WMMR put their single on regular rotation; “Distress Signal” is currently also being sent for circulation nationwide!
The Shakers incorporate a wide range of styles and musical experiences. They live for high-energy shows and passionate song writing. The Shakers gain their inspiration from their supportive friends and family, and their incredibly loyal fanbase. The Shakers aim to put your teeth on the curb while you shake your ass to the ground.
The Shakers Every Wednesday at Kibitz Room!!
The Shakers | MySpace Music Videos
The Dirty Diamond
The Dirty Diamond story begins like oh so many bad Hollywood movies.. their eyes met across a crowded cafe, filled with out of work actors, despondent drug-addicted models and faux intellectual screenwriters, all seeking shelter from the tepid LA winter. Adam was a rambler and Sam was a roller, but their mutual love of rock created an instant bond. Together they formed a collective orgy of guitar love and along the way, their twosome grew into a threesome with the addition of Liverpool born drummer Chris. Within months they had cut their first self titled album using a cast of additional guest musicians. The music is raw, emotional, good old fashioned rock and roll without a smidgen of emo or indie embellishments. Sam’s rough, honest vocals and strong lyrics pay tribute to early Southern rock, the blues and classic rock. For all the classic influences of their sound, it never once feels vintage and their innovative musicianship wins through to create something thoroughly modern. The Dirty Diamond is becoming well known in the LA area for their energetic shows… too cool for school hipster kids have even been known to break into dance. Every show tends to be slightly different as they perform with a variety of skilled bassists, occasional pianists, harmonica players, gospel style back up singers, additional guitarists and even monkeys! OK, maybe not monkeys but the rest is true. In summary, they rock and if you go to a show, so will you!
Kid Kosovo
One chilly Los Angeles night Sam was walking down an empty back street with his Bass on his back when Seth pulls up in a creepy van and yells out the window, “Hey, are you a bass player!?” Sam replies with a mumbled, “yeah.” “Well I’m a drummer, so we should be best friends.” Shouted Seth. “Ok” mumbles Sam. From then on Seth and Sam began writing music to get down to…
Gooding
Trading the wheat fields of the Midwest for the five-lane sprawl of LA, a songwriter from Kansas hits the LA concrete with a symphony in his head.
After 600 shows in 60 cities with his childhood friends Billy Driver and Jesse Rich, front man, composer and entrepreneur Gooding is ready for the big show. With a firm footing in the LA film/TV world, Gooding is brandishing over 100 placements, DVD’s of Johnny Cash – Walk the Line, Matrix Revisited, Animatrix, Children of Men, Ice Age 2, Nip/Tuck, The Closer, Commercials for Dodge, Jeep and Chrysler, several MTV shows, and most recently Expansion Team NYC’s rebranding of PBS, Gooding’s 750 song catalog has been featured in LA Times and Marketwatch. Dane Cook chose Gooding’s band as one of his favorite up and coming acts on his HBO show Tourgasm.
Gooding’s first two musical experiences were a KISS concert at age 4 and listening to Queen’s Flash Gordon soundtrack on loop. He has since gone on to release over a dozen solo lp’s, penning every tune and playing every instrument, recorded and produced over 100 other acts, and started a successful indie label (S3) and publishing/licensing company (K2). After studying film scoring at KU and UCLA, Gooding’s film work has found its way into the bands recordings and live shows; a symphonic, 3D sound referred to as “Widescreen Rock”.
A perfect artist for the changing digital landscape, Gooding is the essence of DIY; relentlessly recording, touring and interacting with a growing fanbase both online and on the ground. The latest idea to energizing the fan base is his “50 in 5” tour – performing in all 50 state in 5 months with daily viral videos so fans can ride alongside the band through every state line. From army bases to national parks, bookstores to bowling allies, even a stop to perform with a high school marching band performing Gooding’s music for the town, this band has always had a go for broke attitude…
“We have paid our dues with stolen gear, vans broken down and on fire, ramen in the coffee pot of the motel 6, all night drives through blizzards and black ice, shows with broken bones, no sleep, no pay….All the roadware only made us more of a family. No matter how much the music business changes, a band was made to travel and play. That’s where our passion is, and that’s where some of our best songs come from.”
On his upcoming release “The Return”, Gooding’s razor sharp songwriting and soul-searching lyrics, brilliant musicianship, cutting edge production and hopeful optimism shine through loud and clear. Instantly accessible without sacrificing sophistication or musicality, the new songs hit the AAA airwaves on Jan 11, 2010, and the bands 50 state tour, featuring showcases in LA, NYC and Austin will start soon after.
Gooding’s live show is a sight to behold. The fans of this band come to witness what is almost a secular church revival, with sticks and strings left all over the stage, and a final act of Gooding playing two guitars at once. If you live in America, the band is coming to you. And after that? It’s only a matter of time before the band takes to the seas and plays a country near you.
Dolorata
Dolorata is a modern day old school band. With passion and raw power, this all-female quintet rocks with the sensibility of the iconic 70’s, combining distinctive influence and experience to create a n
Guided by lead vocalist/guitarist/songwriter Katie Colpitts, each lyrically compelling song is recognizable and riff based. She is strongly supported by Dori Sappo on guitar, Veronica Savage on bass, Dawn Richardson on drums, and uniquely accented by Emily Palen’s persuasive violin. Each brings her own influential and hard-hitting vision to Dolorata. Members of the band have not only hailed from Bay Area groups such as, 4 Non Blondes and The Hail Marys, but have performed at the Grammy’s and have played with legendary icons like John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin, The Foo Fighters and Tracy Chapman.
Dolorata has vibrantly rocked some of San Francisco’s most celebrated venues from The Warfield, The Fillmore, Slims and Bottom of the Hill to esteemed establishments in the southern CA region from The Whiskey a Go-Go to the House of Blues. Unshakable headliners, as well as dynamic supporters of such artists as Iggy and the Stooges, The Gossip or Von Iva, Dolorata consistently manifests the magnitude of their uncompromising, driving, soul vibrating rock.
Releasing their debut album, Believer, in May of 2008, Dolorata continues to capture attention, garnering praise from such notables as Curve Magazine, San Francisco Chronicle, The Bay Guardian, and SF Weekly. Tracks from Believer have electrified the airwaves on Bay Area radio stations, including 107.7 The Bone.
Dolorata’s blues influenced, hard rock inspired collaboration always packs a punch. Somewhere between Cream and Led Zeppelin - Wolfmother and Queens of the Stone Age, you’ll find the sound of Dolorata.
Born as Ghosts
Raised in Los Angeles and its surrounding neighborhoods, our music is a reflection of our city. From East LA to Venice, From Hollywood To Inglewood. All of the sounds and cultures of our streets influence the music we make. Break dancing on Santa Monica Pier as kids, sneaking into The Chili Peppers at The Paladiun as teenagers, watching Weapon of Choice at Cafe Future in Inglewood, and thrashing with Mike Patton at The Troubador. We are an LA band, Los Angeles es mi Barrrio….. WELCOME TO THE GHOST SHOW!
CODEGA NIGHTS
© 2010 The Codega Group.