A new midsize music and entertainment venue is making its debut in Downtown’s historic Naud Warehouse, with performances starting on Feb. 27.
Pacific Electric is the latest project from tvg hospitality, the global entertainment group founded by Mumford & Sons musician Ben Lovett. A 750-capacity venue, Pacific Electric is designed to be an intimate launchpad for artists looking to break into the LA music scene.
“It’s been pretty magical watching this whole thing happen… It’s been really exciting watching this go from a big empty warehouse to a beautiful concert venue,” Venue Manager Stacey Levine said.
Pacific Electric is housed in the historic Naud Warehouse, which is at a former Southern Pacific Railroad train junction at Main Street and Alameda Street. The venue’s name is a nod to the Pacific Electric Railway Company.
Pacific Electric is housed in the historic Naud Warehouse, which is at a former Southern Pacific Railroad trains junction at Main Street and Alameda Street.
(Chris Mortenson/Staff)
Once, the “red cars” of the train connected LA with its surrounding cities. The Pacific Electric team wants to offer that same kind of connectivity between its performers and their fans.
“Red cars that were connecting all of Southern California to this Los Angeles cultural hub,” Levine said. “We feel like that’s kind of what we want to do: bringing people together with the best thing that I think there is, which is live music and creating moments for folks.”
Beyond hosting musicians, Pacific Electric is an event space, hosting parties and community and corporate events alike. It wants to hear from the Downtown community, learning what they want for the space and adjusting programming for their desires.
“If we hear from the neighbors that they want to do a town hall with someone that they’re interested in, we would be happy to do that kind of thing,” Levine said. “We’ve got a full week of programming with Netflix Is A Joke comedy festival. We’ve got probably two shows most nights for that comedy festival we’re doing. Whatever the community wants is what we are hoping to provide.”
The 750-seat capacity is a crucial part of the property’s identity, as it serves as a launching point for emerging artists.
“They’re probably playing the biggest show that they’ve ever played, but about to play a much bigger place the next time they play,” Levine said. “It’s an exciting place for an artist to be. It’s a really exciting place for a fan to be, because if you’re coming to see a show at a 750-capacity room, you’re a fan of the band, and it’s probably the biggest room you’ve ever seen them play.”
The space itself has a warm feel to it — high ceilings and brick keep that classic warehouse aesthetic, and trains can be heard passing through. It is two levels, allowing fans to get close to the artist.
Perhaps it is because tvg hospitality itself was founded by an artist, but Pacific Electric is designed as a space as much for the creator as for the fan. The backstage was built for an underplay, so even the highest-level touring artist would feel comfortable in its dressing rooms.
“They’re spacious,” Levine said. “They’ve got all the amenities: washer and dryer, a kitchenette, a dining area, lounge area, a piano even. Hotel grade furniture, a bathroom and shower. Even the biggest touring artist will feel really comfortable in the space.”
Success for Pacific Electric, to Levine, includes being programmed six nights a week with a diverse lineup.
“It’s having lots of different promoters in the room, having lots of new people through the doors, and tons of regulars,” Levine said. “I think that we are going to be that kind of place where you might come to see a band because you love the venue and you want to check out something new.”
UPCOMING LINEUP:
Joseph
Feb. 27, 8 p.m.
A folk-pop trio of sisters, Joseph is legendary for their haunting three-part harmonies and deeply personal songwriting. Their live sets are known for being emotionally charged. The Portland natives released their first album “Native Dreamer Kin” in early 2014.
((( O )))
FEB. 28, 8 p.m.
Also known as June Marieezy, ((( O ))) provides a genre-defying experience she calls “Sundrops.” Her performance blends neo-soul, jazz, and experimental electronics into a spiritual, immersive soundscape.
Natalie Jane: The World I Didn’t Want World Tour
MARCH 4, 8 p.m.
A rising pop sensation with a massive vocal range, Natalie Jane’s show is a showcase of cinematic pop at its finest. Her performance highlights her ability to deliver soul-stirring ballads.
Aimee Mann, 22 1/2 Lost in Space Anniversary Tour
MARCH 6 and MARCH 7
Grammy-winner Aimee Mann is bringing her signature dry wit and melodic precision to the stage, perfectly paired with the sharp, clever lyrics of Jonathan Coulton.
Timecop1983
MARCH 20, 8 p.m.
Known by his stage name Timecop1983, Jordy Leenaerts is a Dutch electronic musician from Eindhoven, producing music in the synthwave genre. His debut album, “Childhood Memories,” was released in 2014.
Blackwater Holylight with Faetooth
MARCH 21, 8 p.m.
This Portland-based heavy psych-rock quintet masterfully balances ethereal vocal harmonies with crushing, doom-inspired riffs. The show promises a hypnotic, hazy atmosphere that oscillates between beautiful dreaminess and intense, heavy sludge.
More Information
Pacific Electric is located at 1729 Naud Street, Los Angeles.
Call 213-267-2603 or visit pacificelectric.la to learn more.