Sound In Focus Recap: Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros + Imarhan

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Saturday, July 9th marked the first of three Sound in Focus concerts at the Annenberg Space for Photography. First up, lauded LA band Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros with Imarhan opening.

Timelapse

Century Park filled up quickly with families and friends finding that perfect spot near the beautifully built stage. The park itself was a perfect setting with sloped grass ideal for a picnic, or if that wasn’t your style, you could dive into one of the lawn games, food trucks or beer gardens.

Lawn Games

Jason Bentley welcomed the growing audience with a signature set of tunes. Photo Credit: Dustin Downing(The original image is no longer available, please contact KCRW if you need access to the original image.)

Annenberg

The Annenberg Space for Photography is currently exhibiting REFUGEE and concert attendees lined up to check out this powerful exhibit before the shows.

Imarhan on Stage
Photo Credit: Dustin Downing (The original image is no longer available, please contact KCRW if you need access to the original image.)

Southern Algerian band Imarhan got things in gear with their rhythmic Tuareg sound, mixing elements of funk and African dance. The crowd couldn’t keep still.

ImarhanCrowd

Saturday night's golden hour
Saturday night’s golden hour. (The original image is no longer available, please contact KCRW if you need access to the original image.)

Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, led by Alex Ebert, delivered an infectious mix of new and old tracks, and the engaged audience sent the energy right back. The band played right up to curfew, even inviting Imarhan onstage for a Century City-wide sing-along of their hit,  Home. ESMZ Performing

Following their set, the band hung around with fans and took in the atmosphere, proving this central space brings all of Los Angeles together.

Alex Chats with Fan

Century Park

Next week’s Sound in Focus show (July 16) with Baaba Maal, Classixx and Brazilian Girls will pick up right where we left off. See you there.