Entertainment Fusion Group threw a funk, pop and food-filled Swedish extravaganza at Los Angeles’ Shrine Expo Hall and Grounds last weekend. The event was billed “Stockholm CA” and was the first all-Swedish festival to happened outside Swedish borders.
Music was the main attraction at this raucous event, with huge acts playing to throngs of eager attendees. R&B/pop act Mapei played a free-flowing, buoyant set capped by her big hit “Don’t Wait.” I’ve loved that song for a long time now, and it got me in feelings in the middle of a big crowd. I like when that happens.
Sweden continued it’s impressive R&B showing with one of the night’s biggest acts, Little Dragon. This band is royalty among my friends, and they did not disappoint. Wearing some of the flyest shades I’ve seen, lead singer Yukimi Nagano flexed and intense, simmering dynamic control. Precision meets warmth in her voice, which is possibly the best in the business.
On the pop side, Rebecca & Fiona gave us all the rush we wanted, playing a sugary set full of extremely chant-able songs. The chopped and screwed video and illustrations behind them added visual candy, pushed the set over the top. I remember thinking “I’m so happy right now. I love this city.” This was while a man was feverishly dancing next to me, sans cares.
The night’s biggest act was Icona Pop. Even people who think they don’t know this band know this band. If that makes sense. They have an absolute classic on their hands with “I Love It,” maybe the most life-affirming, joyous single of the last decade. Also it’s on President Obama’s workout playlist.
The duo was joined by some of the most on-point background vocalists I’ve heard. The effect was infectious. I danced and smiled throughout their set. Their camaraderie and commitment to delivering absolute joy is impressive and welcome.
There was a band that delivered an anti-Trump jam just before Icona Pop took the stage; I didn’t catch their name, but they played a far too-short set. Guitars and gruff vocals in tow, they were a nice comedown from the very-hype set before them.
I hope this fest comes back next year. I’m still smiling.
Additional Sighting: NYLON returned with NYLON Nights Los Angeles, in Celebration of the October It Girl Issue hosted by cover star Tinashe held at LA’s stylish bar and lounge Doheny Room. This year, prestige cosmetic brand Clinique pampered party guests with beauty touch-up stations offering Clinique Pop Lip Colour + Primer lipsticks. Guests captured their glammed look in the FoxTales photo booth featuring Clinique’s fun and flirty lip emojis. Absolut Elyx, Tequila Avion and Perrier Jouet Grand Brut provided specialty cocktails throughout the evening. Daya, Jaden Smith and ZEDD were also in attendance.
