If you were planning to schlep out to the El Rey in LA tomorrow to check out the Grammy-nominated Grupo Fantasma you might be disappointed to know that the band's show is canceled. Sucks, right? Unless of course you live in OC, in which case your drive just got a lot shorter.
]
Due to a miraculous venue change (thanks to Goldenvoice for cancelling), one of the best Latin orchestras in the U.S. decided to pull out a back-up plan and come to Commonwealth Lounge in Fullerton. The best part (besides the music) is that you won't be paying $17 for tickets. In fact, Commonwealth is letting you in for free!
Fresh off of the release of their latest album, El Existential (released May 11 on Nat Geo Music), it obviously took more than a last-minute LA cancellation to stop Fantasma's momentum on their US tour. Formed in 2000, this 11-piece monstrosity (also know as a frequent backing band for Prince…yep) tours all over the world, unleashing their progressive, boisterous blend of traditional cumbia and Latin funk with enough heart and soul to spill over on any stage.
Tomorrow, they'll also be joined by another outstanding OC/LA Latin funk hybrid, Boogaloo Assassins. Easily inspiring a decent amount of hip-shaking fervor across the country Boogaloo is a celebrated local bunch known for stages with historically undeniable sounds of 70s salsa, brown-eyed soul, doo-wop and much more at places like Commonwealth, Detroit Bar others. Any club diva or dancer worth their salt can't afford to miss this.
This Fantasma gig is another surprising acquisition for the Fullerton watering hole on the heels of an impressive set by KCRW darlings Quadron earlier this month. The guest DJs for tomorrow include DJ Bobby Soul and Billy Goods (two veteran members of the Boogaloo crew).
The show starts at 10 p.m. No cover! 21+
In the spirit of helping you get through your crappy work day before the weekend fun begins, we want to showcase another one of GF's primary talents: making kick ass music videos. Check out their video for “Gimme Some.” Between the funky beats, afro wigs and leisure suits, this could be one of the funnier things you see on YouTube all day.
