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Writer's pictureJoma Mandocdoc

LA-based Willowake Turns The Tide At Moroccan Lounge

Updated: Aug 18

I've always been an old soul judging by the music I listen to, that ever-so enduring "90's rock" on endless repeat in the car, at work, practically anywhere and everywhere. And then I came across Willowake.. Safe to say, the kids are doing alright.

 
Willowake at the Moroccan Lounge dated July 8, 2024.
Willowake, Moroccan Lounge, 07/08/2024
 

Monday.

July 8.

6:30 pm.


My eyes wandered as I multi-task driving, paying attention to Apple maps, and looking for a parking spot. 'Oh good, free parking. You don't get that around LA.'


I walked from the side-street parking to the doors of the Moroccan Lounge and was greeted by a guy giving wristbands for drinkers. Respectfully declined, as I should, and made my way to will call then inside. The Moroccan Lounge is an interesting piece of architecture. Very unassuming from the outside as it looks innocent with white outer walls, while the inside was filled with people of youthful energy.

 
Junior Polanco of Willowake played the Moroccan Lounge in support of Wayword, alongside Hazel and Sketches.
Junior Polanco of Willowake played the Moroccan Lounge in support of Wayword, alongside Hazel and Sketches
 

As I stepped into the concert hall, I was embraced by the thick haze from the stage. Diligently squeezed my way amongst the crowd to find a spot close to the stage as I like to position myself where I can see the drummer clearly. But boy, the haze wasn't helping. I did not fret as I just thought of it as a math equation I had to solve.

The band started off with "Dog" which I really, really loved as it set the tone for the night. It was just a barrage of sounds, a combination of Tetris-esque guitar riffs and blitzing bass lines. Add that steady beat and reverberating vocals. This is modern rock.


Fender Jaguar, Picks, Setlist, IEM, Phone on the floor
Junior Polanco's essentials

I was an instant fan since listening to their songs before coming in, but their performance further solidified the connection. The band was super professional on stage. No antiques in between songs. They just mean business. This shows the time and effort they put in during rehearsals. The confidence and attention they put into their music was piercing through the hazy halls and weaving through the crowd. Then bam it hit me.

I have that sense of relief. A refreshing kind of relief.


I've always been an old soul for the niche of music I listen to, that ever-so enduring "90's rock" on endless repeat in the car, at work, practically anywhere and everywhere. And then I came across Willowake.. Safe to say, the kids are doing alright.


Thank you Willowake for making your kind of music. You broke my 90's rock curse. You're a lifesaver.

 
full band
Willowake during their last song at The Moroccan Lounge
 

For more information about Willowake, click here. Also, check out their new EP out now, titled "an alter ego" on Spotify!


WILLOWAKE PHOTO GALLERY



 






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