7PM Doors ✖ Hall ✖ $15 ADV / $20 DOS ✖ 18+
With María on lead vocals and Josh on drums, the couple is joined by three of their closest friends and fellow musicians. On guitar, Jesse Perlman, born and bred of LA, with ‘tones that can melt steel,’ says his bandmates. On bass, Canadian born and Berklee trained Carter Lee. On keys, Edward James.
Drawing inspiration from both their vastly diverse backgrounds and the intimacy of their mystic Hollywood Hills commune, the band often writes records and produces within the walls of their own home. Though Josh takes the lead as producer and architect to The Marías’ overall sound – ‘The frontman behind the scenes,’ María calls him – what listeners hear is the vision of the group. Their creations seamlessly dance between synthetic and analog tones, weaving in an old-school, vintage aesthetic with a progressive touch. Says Josh, ‘The production is as much about layering as it is about minimalism.’
First hitting the airwaves last year after an early Soundcloud demo was spun by Chris Douridas on KCRW’s Eclectic 24 and the Anne Lit Show, the group began their foray into the LA music scene with KCRW’s School Night. They have since built tremendous momentum, utilizing the freedom of independent operation to build an eclectic catalog, unrestricted by any one genre.
As they take to the stage, dressed like a dream from another era – María at the forefront, eyes closed, swaying rhythmically in a floor-length smoking jacket and bright red lips – it’s clear why fans cheekily compare their sound to ‘having sex in the 70s’ or like ‘pouring cream into coffee.’ Watching them, you feel transported, taken over by a sultry tranquility as you drift into a timeless space.
They will be releasing their second EP, titled ‘Superclean Vol. II’ September of 2018.