The once-thriving nightclub, The Satellite, formerly known as Spaceland, holds a special place in the hearts of many music enthusiasts in Los Angeles. Over the years, it hosted legendary acts such as Lady Gaga and Foo Fighters, solidifying its status as a cultural landmark on the east side of the city. Sadly, like many other venues, The Satellite succumbed to the economic hardships brought on by the pandemic in 2020, leaving a void in the local music scene.
Ben Golomb, a member of the band Modern Time Machines, took it upon himself to pay homage to The Satellite and the surrounding neighborhoods of Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Hollywood. Inspired by his love for vintage aesthetics and time travel, Golomb meticulously curated a video that captured the essence of a bygone era. This project became a personal quest for Golomb, as he scoured through years’ worth of photos and footage to create a visual narrative that would transport viewers back in time.
Golomb’s dedication to preserving the history of The Satellite led him to delve deep into the venue’s past. From its humble beginnings as The Happy Hollow in the 1950s to its transformation into The Red Chimney, The Satellite has undergone several incarnations before becoming the beloved music hotspot that it was known as in recent years. Golomb’s commitment to documenting these changes is a testament to the impact that The Satellite had on the local music community.
The video produced by Modern Time Machines features a dreamy space rock tune titled “Ghost Signs (Sleight of Hand),” which serves as a musical reflection on the fleeting nature of memories and the passage of time. Golomb, along with his bandmates and collaborators, poured their creative energies into this project, infusing it with a sense of nostalgia and longing for the past. The video not only showcases the band’s musical talents but also serves as a visual time capsule of a forgotten era.
As Golomb immersed himself in the project, he inadvertently became a local historian, uncovering hidden gems and forgotten stories about The Satellite and its impact on the community. The venue, often referred to as the “Cheers of Silver Lake,” held a special place in the hearts of many, creating a sense of camaraderie and belonging among music lovers. The loss of The Satellite was deeply felt by those who frequented its doors, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with the community.
The video produced by Modern Time Machines serves as a poignant reminder of the vibrant music scene that once thrived in Los Angeles’s east side. Through a combination of music, visuals, and storytelling, Golomb and his collaborators have created a lasting tribute to The Satellite and the cherished memories associated with it. As the city continues to evolve and change, projects like these preserve the cultural heritage of iconic venues and ensure that their legacy lives on for future generations to appreciate.
Leave a Reply