Licks!

Enjoy the blending of tastes and sounds as The Unprecedented Music Association presents Licks! Come hear jazz fusion from local Los Angeles bands EMÆL and Frequency Illusion as well as world premieres by UMA's Carlos Durán and Vasken Ohanian.  

EMÆL is a Los Angeles–based cellist, singer-songwriter, and producer whose music blurs the lines between genres.  With three albums and two EPs to his name, he has carved out a distinct sound through the manipulation of his voice and cello, weaving soundscapes that feel at once intimate and expansively transportive.  His songs often turn inward, reflecting on the human experience while pushing sonic boundaries with textures and sonics never heard before. Listeners and collaborators alike describe EMÆL’s music as an invitation to step outside the ordinary and into a world shaped by curiosity, emotion, and innovation.  The live band currently features Joris Hoogsteder, Anthony Beville, and Meadowmaker.

Frequency Illusion is an experimental trio co-founded by bassist Marlon Martinez, pianist Alex Mansour, and drummer Jon Schlitt.  The trio has united their shared professions in classical chamber music, Los Angeles studio and live orchestras, jazz and free improvisation collectives.  Frequency Illusion highlights the commonalities between European classical music and American jazz—musical languages that have complimented each other and collectively inspired the evolution of modern popular music.  In one continuous improvised set, Frequency Illusion weaves together masterpieces by Ravel, Strayhorn, Satie, Monk, Debussy and more, through one collective flowstate that celebrates the universality of improvised and written composition.

To enhance the listening experience, you will savor drinks and hors d'oeuvres specially curated by UMA's own Abigail Torrence.  In addition to being a flutist, composer, and your fabulous host for the evening, Abby has synesthesia, which means the act of listening to music oftentimes will cause her to experience other senses like taste.  The tasty treats she is curating for the night are all paired specifically to the music you will be hearing based on what the blending of music and taste feels like to her.  It will be a unique experience that you won't want to miss!

IMPORTANT:  You must be aged 21 or older in order to attend this concert; IDs will be checked at the door.  If you are attending the concert and have food allergies or dietary restrictions, please contact us as soon as possible.