August 2008

Bomb Shell

Contra-Band takes recycling to the streets at Sunset Junction Fair

Edgy, artsy Eastside LA’ers got out in the heat on August 23rd and 24th to hit up the 28th annual Sunset Junction Festival in the Silver Lake area of Los Angeles.

Contra-Band popped up a 10×10’ tent in the Arts & Crafts section and pimped out a series of reusable shopping bags under the name “Artists-Activists.” Everyone who stopped by our booth had great feedback on the bags, and even more love for our collection of sheepskin rugs.

We quickly realized this was not a “shopping” event. It was about getting lit and lifted by amazing music from 3 stages featuring 9 DJs and 38 bands like Black Keys, Stephanie Mills, and DJ Eddie One. Sadly, we all missed Isaac Hayes (RIP) who was scheduled to headline the festival. In his memory, Contra-Band designed a special reusable shopping bag “Hot Buttered Soul.” And after several bottles of champagne in the dead heat we got lifted, too.

Crowds at Sunset Junction this year were far below estimates. Many attributed this noticeable decline in attendance to the festival charging an entrance fee of $25 – a huge increase over past years where festival goers paid $5 maybe $10 max and had money left over to spend on what’s inside.

Nevertheless, coming together as a community was of huge value. Not a bad way to spend a steamy summer weekend, supporting the friendly collision of diverse cultures and lifestyles in LA.