Comfortably removed from the alleged “glamour” of Hollywood, The Satellite is a humble venue set unobtrusively on the east side of town. Forever a mecca for LA’s most hip and down-to-earth citizens, the neighborhood of Silverlake was the perfect backdrop for electro-rock duo Boombox to bring their new studio album Filling in the Color to Angeleno ears for the first time.
Beginning with it’s Kickstarter roots, Filling in the Color is an exciting new adventure for the funky duo of Russ Randolph (Producer/DJ) and Zion Godchaux (Guitar/Vocals). They maintain the perfect balance of electronic elements with their jam-rock musicality, but this album is decidedly more lyrical and laidback than downriverelectric and Visions of a Backbeat. Showcasing their diversity and versatility, this album is the perfect soundtrack for a chilled-out, sunny afternoon.
What I love most about Boombox is the transition that takes place between the studio and the stage. On record, their sound is more rock-influenced and relaxed but when they’re on stage they ignite a bass-fueled inferno that blazes until the wee morning hours. If you’ve never seen these guys play live, you’ve got to change that ASAP. You’re missing out on the “live ying” to the duo’s “recorded yang”.
That Thursday evening show was no exception —- though the crowd at The Satellite be but little, they be fierce! Every member of the audience seemed to be a learned fan of Boombox—anticipating the breakdowns and singing along with the words. Their set was a perfectly crafted balance of old and new material, hitting crowd-favorites such as “Who Killed Davey Moore” and “Mr. Boogeyman”.
They took their time building up grooves and letting them simmer before cascading into familiar melodies, which we aptly met with cheers of joy from their thirsty crowd. As subsonic frequencies shook the entire room, beautifully rich rays of colors washed across the walls and a Saturn-shaped disco ball spun overhead. In such close quarters, it was obvious that Randolph and Godchaux were having just as much fun as their audience.
The evening was a truly special experience to share with a far-from-typical LA crowd. As I walked away from The Satellite on that chilly Thursday night, all I could do was smile to myself and hum a familiar refrain: ”Don’t tell me this town ain’t got no heart; you just gotta’ poke around”.
