From the late 60’s to the early 90’s, the center of the rock and roll universe was a short stretch of Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood. With clubs like the Rainbow Bar & Grill, The Viper Room, and Whisky A Go Go, it was the place to be seen and heard, especially if you were a new and ambitious band. One of the cross streets in that crucible of musical incubation is Larrabee Street. That became the setting for a song of self-acceptance and worth, and title track, from LA’s Diane Hubka & the Sun Canyon Band, on their new album.
Overall the record takes some style inspiration from the sounds first created in nearby Laurel Canyon. Those original compositions are complemented by a few covers from such stalwarts as Townes Van Zandt and Fred Neil.
The title track itself opens with some light and airy acoustic guitar play and instantly sets a positive mood. From there Hubka sings about a moment when you realize everything is going to be alright, where “the moon is smiling down on us and we’re just where we want to be.” Guitarist, and the song’s writer, Rick Mayock notes that “although the song acknowledges limitations and lost opportunities, it also anticipates new beginnings.” So here to start your week on a better note than perhaps you expected is the premiere of Moon Over Larrabee.
About the author: I've actually driven from Tehatchapee to Tonopah. And I've seen Dallas from a DC-9 at night.