Cold War Kids and Bleached christen the new Fender Hollywood

Cold War Kids at Fender Hollywood Opening

What a beautiful night to celebrate Fender’s new offices right in Hollywood. Last Thursday, invited guests poured in to peruse the incredible new lot filled with gorgeous guitars as well as architecture design. Sipping on cocktails and socializing among recognizable faces such as Ryan Adams and Bobb Bruno of Best Coast, the night was surely just beginning. And that was just inside. Outside in the corridor you could watch proud Fender users making their way along the red carpet, and catch some crazy good eats as well. Guests made sure to stop by the Fill R Up Gastro Garage set up, where the very skilled and certified gastro mechanics served up delicious sandwiches and desserts all torched with nitrous tanks, providing the infused toppings all over a brioche donut!

The night carried as we shuffled into the concert hall next door at Neuehouse for some live performances by some of our city’s local favorites. Presented by Fender CEO, Andy Mooney — LA’s very own Bleached were welcomed. These four punk rockers proudly got the night rolling, making you feel almost transported from this hall to a garage show/band rehearsal. There is always so much lovely passion and power behind frontwoman, Jennifer Calvin. The vocals alone scream girl power that are beautifully backed with the total punk rock package. With her sister Jessica Calvin on guitar and band mates Nick Pillot and Micayla Grace on drums and bass, this group always gives a solid performance.

Keeping things local, from Long Beach, California, we had the incredible Cold War Kids up next. One of my favorite bands, Cold War Kids instantly lit up the stage, and guests were forced to pause between bites of delicious hors d’oeuvres to witness the “ass kicking” blue-eyed soul/indie rock stylings from these proud Fender players. The one and only Nathan Willett on lead chops, piano and guitar does not lack in the energetic performance field. You’ve also got the hypnotizing Matt Maust on bass guitar, migrating and leaving no location of the stage untouched; Joe Plummer formerly of Modest Mouse and The Shins on drums keeping up the fast pace tempos; David Quon of We Barbarians on backing guitar and vocals; and Matthew Schwartz on backing vocals/piano & keys/percussion and guitar. The set slayed and had guests dancing and letting their hair loose. Successfully debuting their new Hollywood home, Fender Hollywood was the place to be Thursday night.

Words & Photography: Danielle Gornbein