If you call the hills home, then seeing SBCLTR probably sparks more than just a feeling of bliss. If you know, you know. And if you don't know — buckle up because you're about to get woke.
There are some things words cannot describe. And this is one of those things. The luring, ecstatic, and mysterious vibe of SBCLTR is the beautiful creation of four childhood friends.
Who’s behind this underground movement? None other than Patrik Khachatourian, Roni Mehrabian, Michael Batmanian, and Arvin Shirinyans.
This four count has always "shared a deep passion for a specific and niche genre of underground house music," although they knew each other long before they started throwing events. Before making their own waves, they used to "attend countless underground shows across LA." But, like most great doers, they "felt something was missing" from the scene. So they launched the first "SBCLTR event in 2016, under the name THE LOFT hosting Viken Arman for his first show in LA" and like all great stories — "the rest was history."
The SBCLTR fairytale is no different from the ones you heard growing up. Just like all great unsung heroes, they had to overcome hurdles to reach their happy ending, too. They faced their "biggest challenge in the beginning. With being unable to book the artists they wanted from the start." However, after "establishing a presence in the community and delivering consistent" high-quality experiences, these four built a like-minded community and finally "gained access to the artists they dreamt of performing on their stage."
The vibe of SBCLTR is hard to define. Its evolving community of bright "like-minded" individuals is both "classy and mature. The music attracts a certain type of crowd," but the dance floor never loses its "friendly family vibe." Attendees are present and conscious consumers of big bass and sexy melodies.
A great event requires "excellent production, the right artists, and the right attendees." It's not just about "dancing but also about creating an experience where attendees can do more. We envision a unique experience at every show." Aside from "top-notch production and art installations," SBCLTR involves "various vendors to create a unique marketplace" where attendees can both shop and eat. Ultimately it's about fostering connection, which "goes beyond just the musical experience."
When it's time to fly the only thing left to do is leap. And that's exactly what these four did when they "put together their very first SBCLTR FSTVL — just two years into the business."
It all goes back to the beginning — and that's why "Viken Arman is one of SBCLTR's favorite artists to work with. Aside from being their very first booking, he's remained loyal to playing his LA shows with them. It's an absolute pleasure to have him on the SBCLTR stage," and he always leaves the crowd wanting more.
It's no surprise that SBCLTR's dream destination would be Armenia — "specifically Yerevan, or near a historic landmark like Karahunj." The foreign vibe you were picking up on blossoms from their deep Armenian roots. These four visionaries would love nothing more than to bask in the "rich Armenian culture found in their ancestral lands" with their community.
What's SBCLTR's biggest party pet peeve? Two words, "fan clackers."
This is not a drill but rather a direct quote. SBCLTR's dream lineup response was to "stay tuned for the 2024 Labryinto Lineup in Costa Rica 😉." If that's not causing mass hysteria, I DON'T KNOW WHAT WOULD?!
It's time to post up on the gram as they roll out what could be the hottest lineup of 2024.
Don't miss your next chance to experience the best of LA's underground scene. If you're in the valley this weekend, check out SBCLTR's event on Saturday, May 6th. You can expect a night full of melodic, deep, gangster space sounds being served up by alko, Viken Arman, Mira, and YokoO.
Don't forget to follow SBCLTR on our website to stay up to date on their upcoming events!