Underground Vibes and Disco Sharks: A Dive into Framework’s Los Angeles Summer Event Series
For more than ten years, Framework, the Los Angeles based promoter has carved out a niche as one of the city ‘s premier promoters of underground house and techno. Known for their carefully curated events that embody an underground ethos, Framework has become synonymous with cutting-edge music experiences, cool venues, and exceptional vibes.
This summer, Framework has once again proven their prowess in the electronic music scene with a series of standout events culminating in the highly anticipated Maceo Plex show on Saturday, August 17th. This performance will take place at the newly minted League of Shadows Pavilion, marking a significant addition to the city’s venue landscape.
Since the launch of their flagship venue, Sound Nightclub in Hollywood, Framework has consistently set the standard for immersive and high-quality events. Their reputation was further solidified through their innovative collaboration with Goldenvoice, the renowned promoter behind Coachella. Together, they created the Yuma Stage at Coachella as a haven for underground music enthusiasts, featuring an industrial aesthetic adorned with disco balls and a striking Disco Shark installation that hangs gracefully in the center.
Framework’s influence extends beyond Los Angeles, with successful ventures in cities like Las Vegas and Austin, as well as internationally at the breathtaking Savaya in Bali, Indonesia. Each event they produce promises a top-tier experience, a testament to their commitment to quality and creativity. This summer’s event series has been no exception, showcasing Framework’s ability to deliver unforgettable nights for house and techno fans.
Outside of the Box Venues
Framework’s summer series kicked off with a dynamic performance by Haitian DJ and producer Francis Mercier at Gin Ling Way in LA’s Chinatown. This fan-favorite venue, nestled in the courtyard beneath the iconic dragon gates, set the stage for Mercier’s signature melodic and tribal house vibes, marking an eclectic start to the season.
Gin Ling Way is not a new haunt for Framework; it’s previously hosted a range of house DJs, including notable names like Diplo, DJ Tennis, and Jamie Jones. Framework’s penchant for unconventional venues extends beyond Chinatown, encompassing a diverse array of locations that elevate their events beyond the ordinary.
@mightrave @Francis Mercier Gin Ling Way In Chinatown Los Angeles 🔥 #francismercier #francismercier2024 #francismercierfans #francismerciermusic #francismercierlive #francismercierlosangeles #francismercierLA #francismercierchinatown #francismercierframework #frameworkevents #framework #francismercierginlingway #ginglingway #chinatown #LAchinatown #francismercier #francismercier2024 #francismercierfans #francismerciermusic #francismercierlive #francismercierlosangeles #francismercierLA #francismercierchinatown #francismercierframework #frameworkevents #framework #francismercierginlingway #ginglingway #chinatown #LAchinatown #edmtiktok #edm #edmtiktoks #ravetok #ravetiktok #rave #raver #raves #ravers #housemusic #housemusiclovers #housemusicid #housemusicalllife #housemusicmoments #housemusiclover #music #dancemusic #electronicdancemusic #lasers #lasershow #techno #dj #live #livemusic #mindblown #fy #fyp #fypシ #fypシ゚ #california #musicfestival #musicfest #musicfestivals #plur
Their creative venue choices include the culturally rich La Plaza de Cultura y Artes, where they hosted Diplo and Latin house DJ Hugel for the “Higher Ground” event. Other notable locations have included the historic Union Station, the lively Pershing Square, and their more traditional spots like the Shrine and Exposition Park.
One of the standout moments this year was the relocation of a proposed show by Solomun from an abandoned factory near Oxnard to Exposition Park. In a remarkable display of creativity, Framework transformed Exposition Park into a replica of the factory’s industrial setting, maintaining their signature underground aesthetic while adapting to venue changes.
Underground, Clubs, and Festivals
The second night of Framework’s summer series featured the acclaimed house DJ Duke Dumont, known for hits like “Ocean Drive” and “I Got U.” Dumont delivered an exhilarating three-hour set at the Red Studio, a sprawling 100,000 sq. ft. soundstage once home to Desilu Productions, the company founded by Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball. The show was so electrifying that Dumont seemed ready to keep the party going indefinitely. For those who missed it, a recording of the performance is available on YouTube here.
The event embodied the signature underground vibe Framework is renowned for, reminiscent of their celebrated Hollywood club, Sound. Sound is a beloved venue for DJs and fans alike, featuring rows of lanterns that enhance the visual experience during performances. It’s also home to the Disco Shark, a shark-shaped disco ball that has become an unofficial mascot for Framework.
At Coachella, the Disco Shark makes a splash at the Yuma tent, a techno and house stage known for its relentless beats and immersive atmosphere. Since its debut in 2013, the Yuma tent has grown in prominence and now stands as a favorite among festival-goers. Their simple yet striking stage design, impressive lighting, and superior sound system create an experience that rivals the underground warehouse vibes of Berlin’s Berghain.
Framework’s latest venture, Spotlight, offers a more refined alternative to their usual underground aesthetic while maintaining their signature groovy house and techno vibes. Located at the Dream Hotel in Hollywood, Spotlight features emerging DJs spinning beats weekly, offering a classy and stylish club experience.
Internationally, Framework also curates events at a picturesque beach club in Bali called Savaya. With stunning sunset views and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for enjoying chilled electronic beats while lounging by a beautiful pool with a view of the sea.
@anjunadaniel Anjunadeep Open Air Los Angeles 7-20-24 @crimusic #anjunadeep #anjunafamily
Framework’s third show of the summer was a collaboration with Anjunadeep, the renowned record label from the legendary DJ collective Above & Beyond, known for their progressive and melodic house sounds. Held at Expo Park West, near the Los Angeles Historic National Museum, the event was adorned with disco balls, lanterns, and other cool decorations, creating a serene vibe for the sets. DJs Luttrell and Montreal’s Cri delivered energetic melodic house anthems that kept the crowd enthralled well into the night, leaving them eagerly anticipating future events.
Pivoting, Chill Vibes, and Sustainability
Besides the finale, the remainder of Framework’s summer series continued at Expo Park West, with the next event initially set to be headlined by British DJ Hot Since 82. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the show had to be canceled. In a swift pivot, Framework collaborated with Soulection, a renowned DJ collective based in LA, to present a replacement event with Soulection’s founder Joe Kay performing a set before the night’s headliner Mango & Ginger.
Despite the disappointment of missing Hot Since 82, attendees embraced the eclectic lineup from Soulection with enthusiasm. The event featured a diverse array of DJs, each bringing their unique sound to the stage. Framework also took a step towards environmental sustainability by encouraging attendees to reuse their cocktail cups, which could be purchased for $2 and redeemed for a drink credit at future events. This initiative aimed to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices among fans.
The following day, the same venue played host to the “Purified” show featuring Swiss melodic house queen Nora En Pure. Against a breathtaking sunset backdrop, she was joined by a lineup of talented DJs, including opener Justin Martin, who energized the crowd before Nora took the stage, and Woralks, whose set showcased his impressive piano skills blended seamlessly with his electronic beats.
@sweetnsour_kitty Nora En pure was 🔥 last night at expi park. 1st time at her show… unreal 💜#noraenpure #edm #edmlufestyle #losangeles #thisisframework #femaledjs #fypage
As night fell, Nora En Pure’s performance exceeded expectations. Contrary to the mellow vibe some anticipated, her set was a high-energy affair, featuring dynamic remixes of popular tracks. With an impressive two-and-a-half-hour performance, she delivered a memorable show that left attendees exhilarated, even as they prepared for the start of the workweek on Monday.
Framework Presents Maceo Plex ’93 Album Tour @ Sci Arc in Los Angeles, CA
New Venue and Legendary Maceo Plex
The grand finale of Framework’s summer series will take place at a brand-new venue called the League of Shadows, located near the Art District. Despite its name evoking images of video games or superhero collectives, the venue promises an extraordinary experience. Its striking outdoor design and impressive art installation at the center stage are set to provide a memorable backdrop for the final event.
Capping off the summer series is the renowned techno artist Maceo Plex, marking his first live performance in LA in over five years. His return has generated significant excitement among fans, eager to witness his electrifying set. This event promises to be a highlight of the summer for techno fans, so make sure to secure your spot and not miss out on this talked about show.
Framework has a lineup of exciting events scheduled for the rest of the year. For more details and to stay updated on upcoming shows, visit their website. See you on the dance floor, and don’t forget to re-use your cups at their events!
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Written by Eric B Thornton | @ericbthornton
Edit by Bernadette | @berntree