Los Angeles has a rich history of cultural landmarks, particularly when it comes to the music scene. The Satellite nightclub in Silver Lake, formerly known as Spaceland, was once at the forefront of this scene. Hosting iconic acts such as Lady Gaga and Foo Fighters, The Satellite was a beloved venue that showcased emerging alternative and pop groups. However, like many other establishments, it was forced to close its doors in 2020 due to the impact of the pandemic.
A Tribute Through Music
In a heartfelt homage to The Satellite and the surrounding neighborhoods of Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Hollywood, Los Angeles band Modern Time Machines has released a new video. Ben Golomb, a member of the band, spearheaded the project by curating photos and footage that captured the essence of the area’s rich history. Golomb, an LA native, felt a personal connection to the project, stating, “I’m an LA native, and it always puts a smile on my face to discover before/after images of familiar, local haunts in my hometown.”
The video concept stemmed from Golomb’s fascination with vintage aesthetics and time travel. Inspired by the closure of iconic locations like Amoeba Music on Sunset and the destruction of the Lytton Savings building, Golomb embarked on a journey to visually document the changing landscape of the city. By filming sequences at these locations and meticulously matching time progression shots, Golomb created a visual narrative that pays tribute to the past while acknowledging the inevitability of change.
Throughout the process, Golomb immersed himself in the history of The Satellite, tracing its roots back to the 1950s when it was known as The Happy Hollow. As a member of Modern Time Machines, Golomb and his bandmates composed a dreamy space rock tune titled “Ghost Signs (Sleight of Hand)” for the video. The song reflects on the transient nature of memories and nostalgia, contemplating the possibility of revisiting the past through time travel.
A Collaborative Effort
The video features performances by Modern Time Machines band members Mike Morgan and Olya Volkova, as well as contributions from friends Alex Jack, Nadia Franks, and Diana Christine Hereld. Golomb and Josiah Mazzaschi co-produced the project, infusing it with a sense of camaraderie and shared passion for preserving the cultural heritage of the music scene. Additionally, actors Charles Phoenix and Sarah Negahdari make appearances in the video, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative.
The video created by Modern Time Machines serves as a poignant tribute to the legacy of The Satellite/Spaceland and the vibrant music scene of Los Angeles. Through a careful curation of visuals, music, and storytelling, the band captures the essence of a bygone era while acknowledging the inevitability of change. As the city continues to evolve, projects like this serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural landmarks and celebrating the artistic contributions of those who came before us.
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