The other week I was asked to cover a “secret show” in Downtown L.A. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but what I found was a diverse collection of relatively unknown and very talented musicians. Even more so, I was introduced to Sofar Sounds, an organization that connects musicians and fans in a very unconventional way making for a unique music experience.
Sofar Sounds was founded in 2010 in London. The idea was simple – bring musicians and fans closer together through an intimate concert experience. Individuals signed up to attend a private concert, but the artists weren’t announced until the day of the show and the venue location was kept secret until the day before.
The small project gained popularity and quickly grew. Now, Sofar Sounds hosts concerts in over 300 cities around the world including Los Angeles.
What’s great about Sofar Sounds is that its venues are always changing. Individuals can sign up to host an event, so locations range from someone’s house to the basement of a warehouse.
Because they run mostly on volunteers, music fans have the unique opportunity to get involved with artists in a way they never have before. Not only can they attend an intimate concert, they can help choose the band, set up the location or even host a show.
Throughout the years many bands have played a Sofar concert including Bastille, X Ambassadors and Yeah Yeah Yeahs’s front woman Karen O.
The organization tries to include a diverse range of artists who are either just starting out or gaining momentum. Most of the acts aren’t big name stars, but rather smaller artists who deserve the spotlight.
This month, Sofar Sounds has set up several concerts around L.A. including shows in Culver City and West Hollywood. I’d highly recommend checking out more than one show because the best part about Sofar Sounds is that each concert brings a different experience.
Tickets for a show are relatively inexpensive, and you can apply for tickets or purchase them online. For more information, visit their website here.