Words by Nick Hanover

Photos by Adrian Gandara

Despite the muggy heat and the presence of what sounded like a very drunken jammy cover band next door, Mobley’s record deal signing party at Cheer Up Charlie’s was a clear success, highlighting not just Mobley’s rising star but also the impact of his sound on the scene through the showcasing of likeminded peers Kae Astra and Fix8. Kae Astra occupied the lush, ethereal end of the pop auteur spectrum, pairing 4AD-like hypnotic and indecipherable vocals with strong, pulsating production. Meanwhile, Fix8 had a big pop rock sound that seems destined for arenas. But as always, Mobley shined, working the crowd like the road hardened, charismatic performer he is, engaging them with hi-tech audience participation and more traditional pop tactics like irresistible group singalong moments and hooks on hooks on hooks. Adrian Gandara took some appropriately cinematic photos of the evening, capturing the performers at their starry best, so take a peek…

Kae Astra

FIX8

Mobley