Depeche Mail 101: LA LOM, Beck's Favorite Band.

LA LOM: The Soundtrack to LA’s Soul

If you haven’t heard of LA LOM yet, you’re missing out on a musical melting pot that’s as vibrant as Los Angeles itself. Short for the Los Angeles League of Musicians, this instrumental trio blends surf rock, cumbia sonidera, Peruvian chicha, and even Bakersfield country into a sound that’s impossible to pin down but totally addictive. Their music feels like a nostalgic road trip through 1950s and 1960s LA, with a modern twist that keeps you guessing. Think twangy guitars, Latin percussion, and melodies that make you want to dance—or at least tap your foot.

How It All Began

LA LOM’s story starts in the lobby of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel back in 2018. Guitarist Zac Sokolow and bassist Jake Faulkner, both LA natives, were playing soulful covers of classics by Aretha Franklin and Roy Orbison when percussionist Nicholas Baker joined the mix. Baker’s congas brought a Latin flair to their sound, and the trio began experimenting with genre-bending sets that quickly became a fixture at the hotel. What started as background music for tourists turned into three-hour performances that drew crowds and caught the attention of music lovers across the city.

Influences and Inspirations

The band’s influences are as eclectic as their sound. They’ve cited Latin legends like Los Mirlos and Los Shapis, as well as soul icons like Smokey Robinson and Aaron Neville. Their music also pays homage to their roots, with tracks named after LA landmarks like Santee Alley and Figueroa Street. Zac’s musical lineage includes bluegrass sessions with his father, while Nicholas’s Latin percussion skills were honed under the guidance of Roberto Miranda. Together, they’ve created a sound that’s uniquely LA.

LA LOM has come a long way from hotel lobbies since 2018. They’ve played to thousands of fans and even toured with Vampire Weekend. Their debut album, released in 2024, debuted at number five on Billboard’s Tropical Albums chart. Oh, and did we mention their celebrity fans? Zane Lowe, the famous Podcast host on Apple Music, and the members of Vampire Weekend are all big supporters. Beck has even said they're his favorite band. Whether they’re playing intimate gigs at LA bars or headlining larger venues, LA LOM always brings the energy.

You can find more about La Lom [here].

Pictures from LA LOM's set at Turntable Indy, by George Jesse below.

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