Cannons Mix Things Up For Special Echo Park Rising Performance [PHOTOS]

Echo Park, CA- “Echo Park Rising is a neighborhood event in it’s 7th year that focuses on the music, creativity, diversity and small businesses of Echo Park. There are multiple stages and activities throughout the weekend located on the main routes of Sunset Blvd, Glendale Blvd, Alvarado Avenue, Echo Park Avenue and beyond.” The joy I get from attending this annual, local musical showcase is twofold: (1) I get to see some local acts that have caught my eye rock for free and (2) I get to take fliers on certain bands to see/hear what they’re all about and hopefully add them to my list of local acts to keep and eye on.

Earlier this year, I got see the band Cannons perform live at The Bootleg opening for The Night Game. I was not only struck by their beautiful front woman, Michelle Joy, but also their sensual soundscapes. They call it “future boogie”, but I call it “sexy-as-f*ck”.

Though not listed as an “official” Echo Park Rising artist, they nonetheless played a special, intimate gig at DELIKT clothing as part of a fund raiser to raise money for the non profit 826LA organization. Within minutes of them starting their mid-afternoon, the space in the retail establishment became packed with fans.

As I’ve mentioned before in a prior post, this band is all about setting the table with a dreamy groove. And whether they are playing in a dimly lit concert room, or a brightly illuminated store, they are able to exude a sensuality communicated through their music.

For this performance, I was particularly drawn to the musicality of the players. I’ve listened to their latest musical output enough to notice when they change things up, and on this occasion I had a handful of pleasantly surprised “where’d that come from?” moments. I was particularly focused on the band’s guitarist, Ryan Clapman, as he gave the music I was familiar subtle re-workings- like adding melodic elements of The Gap Band’s “Outstanding” to their live performance of “Night Drive”. In briefly chatting with Ryan after the performance, he mentioned that they’re always trying new things to change up their live performance. Duly noted, and listener approved.

Cannons have got a handful of local gigs coming in the weeks/months ahead. If you’re looking for an event that can set the table for a romantic interlude, I don’t think you can do any better than hitting up a Cannons show.

Follow Cannons on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.