RECAP: HERCULES & LOVE AFFAIR AT REDBULL SOUND SELECT

When one associates RedBull and music, it’s usually with bands that are indie, edgy, and active. The latest edition of the RedBull Sound Select series really flipped the switch. At a packed house in West Hollywood, east side kids poured in to the Troubadour to get weird and dance all night to house, nu-disco, and R&B.

After salutations, the vibe instantly turned sensual and smooth as Rare Times opened the bill. The LA-based outfit has earned buzz for fusing silky, alt-R&B vocals over moody synthesized tracks. They played favorites like “Sirens Calling” and “Watched Over”- the latter being their most convincing and energetic performance. With much anticipation of their upcoming EP, hopefully the young duo’s live set can further evolve.

The series progressed with the spacey synth-pop sounds of Oh Boy Les Mecs, the group consisting of Mec and leading lady, Tracy Marcellino. She took the stage with messy long hair and a Bjork-esque fluffy, ruffled jacket. Main man, Hanford Pittman, appeared burly and ready to slay – like a Southern hardcore rocker. As if from some dark delirium, the pair creepily and confidently banged out hits like “Unrest” on synths atop of LED tables that lit up in various shades, which added greater stimulation to their live show.

Headlining the night was house/disco collective Hercules & Love Affair, their first performance in LA in 3 years. Fronted by dance music champion, Andy Butler. The NYC based project features a fluctuating cast of music vets who are able to hit high notes and revel across stage like schoolchildren. They performed timeless tracks such as “My House” and “Do You Feel The Same,” steering attendees into a dance frenzy. More insanity ensued when the ensemble invited the audience to party with them on stage.

The highlight of the night was pride of the East Side / Rhonda royalty: DJ Goddollars. He seamlessly curated cohesion between the event’s 3 different acts, while still keeping the party going for attendees.

The next edition of RedBull Sound Select is scheduled for November 21st, for only $3 bucks! RSVP to get your name, first come first served, on the list here.