L7’s Fast and Frightening Takeover is the eclectic punk rock festival you’ve been waiting for

As a seasoned music enthusiast with decades of attending concerts and festivals under my belt, I can confidently say that L7’s Fast and Frightening Takeover is going to be an unforgettable event. With a career spanning over three decades, L7 has been a staple in the punk rock scene, and their extensive experiences playing various fairs and festivals around the world have culminated in this epic night at the Belasco.

As a passionate cinephile reminiscing about my journey, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible experiences I’ve shared with the groundbreaking art-punk band L7. From gracing the stage at Raji’s in Hollywood back in the ’80s, to riding the wave of the grunge movement in the ’90s, and rocking out at massive punk and metal festivals across the globe, their story is one that I’ve been fortunate enough to witness firsthand. Their resilience and talent have truly left an indelible mark on the music scene.

As a film critic traversing diverse cinematic landscapes, I find myself fitting comfortably in many spaces, yet occasionally feeling like an outsider in others.

In numerous locations, particularly during their initial phase, L7 stood out as one of very few, if not the sole, female-led bands. Consequently, when L7 organized their own festival, the Fast and Frightening Takeover at the Belasco on November 23, they ensured a significant female representation would be showcased.

Sparks named it ‘Fast and Frightening’ as he was seeking bands that possessed a bold, stylish attitude, something a bit menacing and up-close,” is one way to paraphrase the original statement.

Delightedly, I’ll be sharing the stage with an array of electrifying acts at the festival, including Surfbort, Adult., Olivia Jean, the Paranoyds, and NIIS. Each group possesses a unique musical identity as perSparks’ words.

Dani Miller from Surfbort, the festival’s performer, expressed that it was a long-held dream realized for her to take part in this event, showing great excitement about being included in the lineup.

Miller commented, “There’s an emphasis on female band members, women-led bands, and female groups. I find that unique because many festivals tend to be male-dominated. It’s refreshing to see L7 in charge and adding some diversity.

As soon as news spread about the upcoming festival, various bands reached out to Sparks with proposals to perform. However, Sparks expressed a preference for a particularly strong second band, stating, “I was hoping for Redd Kross, our fellow rockers. We share an L.A. musical heritage, the two bands, but it’s been over thirty years since we last performed together.

The concert took place at the Hollywood Palladium, where the Butthole Surfers served as the main act. In numerous aspects, this performance represented the diverse selection of artists that L7 aimed to mimic through their own music festival.

Each group was like a unique entity, separate from the rest. The Butthole Surfers, the Redd Kross, and L7 – they were all standalone entities. To this day, we remain independent, and neither Redd Kross nor L7 can be easily categorized into one specific genre.

Directly from the pages of Hawthorne, Redd Kross is finally receiving its due recognition with a fresh documentary titled “Born Innocent: The Redd Kross Story,” helmed by director Andrew Reich, and a new book, “Now You’re One of Us: The Incredible Tale of Redd Kross,” penned by the band’s original members Jeff and Steven McDonald, in collaboration with Dan Epstein.

Steven McDonald expressed his affection for L7,” he said, recalling that they had been in the same punk rock band during middle school. Interestingly, Redd Kross often practiced alongside them.

McDonald was right there as Black Flag started up in Hermosa Beach, yet Redd Kross’s sound is completely different – not at all like Black Flag (or any other band).

Sparks commented by saying that L7 and Redd Kross have a similar perspective. It’s not just about the oddness, but also the way we view the world – it’s both profound and comical, even absurd. Our bands acknowledge this duality.

L7’s Swift and Thrilling Domination aims to encapsulate the essence of the L.A. environment during the time when punk wasn’t just about adhering to a specific style, but rather, it was an urge to generate something fresh and innovative without being bound by strict guidelines or a well-established sound.

McDonald commented in a true L7 style, ‘They’ve put together a lineup that is both exhilarating and intellectually stimulating, with a dash of pure badassery. We hope this becomes an annual tradition and feel privileged to be part of its inaugural edition.’

Discussing upcoming travels, L7 is set to depart in the spring as part of Little Steven’s Underground Garage Cruise, alongside X and Social Distortion. At present, attention is centered on planning for the festival, including creating a schedule and publicizing it through various social media platforms.

Sparks described L7 as hailing from the art-punk genre, distinguishing them from the L.A. hardcore scene or any similar groups. He views punk rock as an all-encompassing term and feels that this festival, with its mix of gothic and electronic music, embodies the spirit of punk rock.

Additionally, we have The Schizophonics from Detroit, who have earned a well-deserved reputation for their electrifying performances and unmatched energy on stage, making them a must-see act in the Motor City.

“Just you wait,” Sparks said. “The frontman in the Schizophonics is a madman.”

The Mexican Standoff isn’t a tough or intense subject, but be cautious when listening to “One Way Ticket to TJ,” as its catchy melodies might linger in your mind for quite some time. These Mexican-American women perform Mexamericana songs in both English and Spanish, harmonizing sweetly while delivering lyrics that are sharp and insightful.

As a film critic, I’ve always been captivated by the enigmatic world of L7, particularly their chart-topping anthem “Pretend We’re Dead.” Yet, there’s another fascinating storyline unfolding within the same realm: the communion with the departed that magician Rob Zabrecky conducts in the Houdini Séance Room at the Magic Castle. This intriguing character will be gracing our festival stage, but believe it or not, he’s not the most jaw-dropping act on this year’s bill.

It’s the Lou Man Group who rightfully earn that title, as they perform covers of Lou Reed tunes in a unique style known as “blueface.” Among them, Sparks takes on the role of the band’s drummer.

“We haven’t played in a very long time,” Sparks said. “It’s almost like a Lou Man Group reunion.”

For a significant period, The Swift and Awe-Inspiring Expansion has been carefully crafted, taking inspiration from L7’s diverse performances at numerous fairs and festivals, not only abroad but also within Los Angeles itself.

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Sparks mentioned that they’ve been invited to participate in smaller, boutique-style festivals, which are unlike the large, all-day events. These events resemble neighborhood block parties and offer a more diverse range of entertainment than some larger festivals. Recognizing a gap in Los Angeles for such events, Sparks decided to fill that niche.

Sparks likened the event, named after L7’s 2016 album of lesser-known tracks and covers, to the Sunset Junction Street Fair, which ceased operation in 2011.

Sunset Junction was remarkably diverse, with an array of unique individuals showcasing their individuality,” said Sparks. “This event is like a mini Sunset Junction, right here at the Belasco. Here, you can enjoy drinks, food, music, and dancing.

Dancing at a punk show? In L.A.?

Previously, it was quite prevalent, particularly in Europe, according to Sparks. After the rock concert concluded, a dance club often took its place at the same venue. So, we’d emerge from our dressing rooms right into the midst of a dance party.

On this occasion, DJ Paul V. of Dragstrip 66, together with DJs from Lesbian Goth Night, will provide music for an evening filled with dancing.

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I’m confidently predicting that tonight is going to be nothing short of spectacular. It seems like the perfect setting for us all to gather, let out our emotions – whether it’s cheers or tears – and uplift one another in unity.

Sparks shared similar thoughts: “Everyone deserves a break, don’t you think? Let’s embrace the vibrant side of life, celebrate our unique culture, and unwind together through joyous dancing – maybe even forgetting our troubles for a while.

5 PM on November 23rd at the Belasco located at 10500 S. Hill St., DTLA – Experience L7’s Speedy and Spooky Takeover for $43.23 to $75.50. Visit fastandfrightening.com for tickets!

Ruland is the author of “Corporate Rock Sucks: The Rise and Fall of SST Records” and the novel “Make It Stop.”

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2024-11-21 14:31