PANAMAJACK: The best thing about springtime in LA? Outdoor markets really start to come alive. One of my favorites is Smorgasburg in the DTLA Arts District, which features cuisines and goods from around the world. Make sure to hit up Mama Musubi and Shrimp Daddy. A beer garden featuring music from some of LA’s best DJs at Dublab Radio really makes the vibe complete.
“This is a song about daydreaming for a warmer land of tomorrow." –Panamajack
Here are five records that symbolize spring to me:Seaside Lovers
“Evening Shadows”
(1983)
Something of a city pop Holy Grail, with several tracks produced by Japanese super producer Hiroshi Sato, who is also responsible for another essential J-pop record, Awakening. It definitely captures the sunshine vibe that defines Los Angeles.Joan Bibiloni
“Migas”
(1987)
With Spain and Los Angeles so far apart, but sitting on the same line of latitude, it’s no wonder that music from Spain fits so well in Los Angeles. The ultra-balearic sounds of Joan Bibiloni work well in early evening poolside sets. Every party doesn’t have to be a dance part,y and just hanging out with your friends is okay, too.Grace Jones
“Private Life (Long Version)”
(1980)
If you weren’t a Grace Jones fan before her amazing performance at FYF last year, then no doubt you were afterward. Jones has always been one of my favorite artists. She rarely misses the mark. In this song’s reggae-infused tropical disco melody, she talks about living her life drama-free and I think that’s a good way to enter spring in Los Angeles.
Forum
“Untitled Modus"
(2016)
If you spend any time partying in LA, then you know that the after-hours scene is alive and well. After playing a lot of these parties myself, it’s hard not to let some of the synthetic sounds of late night rave music bleed over into my weekly sets. This song is a perfect example of a cooled down house track that can be played at 4 in the morning or 4 in the afternoon.Richard Sanderson
“Check on the List”
(1984)
This is a song about daydreaming for a warmer land of tomorrow. LA can often be that place for travelers, adventure seekers, and those of us who call this city home.On Monday, April 24th, The Rooftop presents Panamajack
9.45pm | The Standard, Downtown LA
