The Satellite/Spaceland, a once vibrant nightclub in Silver Lake, was a hub for alternative and pop music, hosting renowned acts like Lady Gaga and Foo Fighters. Sadly, the venue fell victim to the pandemic-induced decline in audiences and closed its doors in 2020, joining a long list of clubs and concert halls across the nation.
Ben Golomb, a member of the band Modern Time Machines, took it upon himself to create a new video that pays tribute to The Satellite and the bygone era of Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Hollywood. Inspired by his love for vintage aesthetics and time travel, Golomb spent years collecting photos and footage to bring his vision to life.
Golomb’s dedication to the project was evident as he meticulously filmed sequences for the video, capturing locations in the midst of being razed and manually matching time progression shots. The use of practical effects added authenticity to the video, showcasing Golomb’s commitment to authentically capturing the essence of the past.
Through his research and work on the video, Golomb became a local historian of sorts, delving into the history of The Satellite. He uncovered that the venue’s roots dated back to the 1950s when it was known as The Happy Hollow and later as The Red Chimney. The loss of The Satellite was deeply felt in the local music scene, with many reminiscing about the venue’s significance as a community gathering place.
Modern Time Machines provided the soundtrack for the video with their dreamy space rock tune, “Ghost Signs (Sleight of Hand).” The lyrics reflect on the passage of time and the nostalgia associated with lost memories. The recording features bandmates Mike Morgan and Olya Volkova, along with collaborators Alex Jack, Nadia Franks, and Diana Christine Hereld, with production credits going to Golomb and Josiah Mazzaschi.
Among the actors featured in the video are Charles Phoenix and Sarah Negahdari, the lead singer of Happy Hollows. Their presence adds another layer of authenticity to the project, further solidifying the connection between past and present through music and visuals.
The video created by Ben Golomb and Modern Time Machines serves as a poignant homage to The Satellite and the bygone era of Silver Lake. With its meticulous attention to detail and heartfelt tribute to a cultural landmark, the video stands as a testament to the enduring impact of music venues on communities and the power of art to preserve memories.
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