The closure of The Satellite, formerly known as Spaceland, marked the end of an era for the Silver Lake music scene. Once a hub for both local and nationally prominent acts, the nightclub succumbed to the devastating impact of the pandemic on live music venues. However, a new video from Los Angeles band Modern Time Machines pays homage to the venue and the broader Silver Lake-Echo Park-Hollywood cultural landscape of yesteryear.
Ben Golomb, a member of Modern Time Machines, was inspired to create the video as a tribute to his hometown. He meticulously curated photos and footage, capturing the essence of The Satellite and its significance in the local music scene. Golomb’s passion for preserving the history of iconic Los Angeles establishments shines through in the video, reflecting his deep connection to the city’s cultural heritage.
Golomb’s dedication to the project is evident in his attention to detail and commitment to authenticity. He spent years tracking down footage and filming sequences at iconic locations like the now-defunct Amoeba Music store and the Lytton Savings building. By combining practical effects and unused footage from previous projects, Golomb created a visually stunning portrayal of a bygone era, showcasing his innovative approach to storytelling through music and imagery.
The soundtrack of the video features Modern Time Machines’ dreamy space rock tune, “Ghost Signs (Sleight of Hand),” which captures the essence of nostalgia and reflection on lost memories. The band members, along with talented collaborators, brought the song to life through their creative contributions to the recording process. Golomb’s collaboration with co-producer Josiah Mazzaschi and the participation of actors like Charles Phoenix and Sarah Negahdari added depth and emotion to the video, enhancing its storytelling capacity.
Through his work on the video, Golomb emerged as a local historian, delving into the rich history of The Satellite and its predecessor establishments. The venue’s evolution from The Happy Hollow to The Red Chimney to The Satellite reflects the changing cultural landscape of Silver Lake over the decades. Golomb’s personal connection to the venue and his role as a chronicler of its history highlight the emotional impact of the nightclub’s closure on the local music community.
Modern Time Machines’ video serves as a poignant tribute to The Satellite/Spaceland and its place in Los Angeles music history. By blending music, visuals, and storytelling, the band honors the legacy of the iconic nightclub and the broader cultural milieu of Silver Lake. Through Golomb’s vision and dedication, the video captures the essence of a vibrant era that lives on in the memories of all who experienced it.