Goh Nakamura + Invisible Cities at Eloise's House

Goh Nakamura and The Invisible Cities were looking for places to play on their "Follow Your Whim" tour booked via a low-budget all-you-can-fly deal from JetBlue, and Wendy and I were glad to be able to host today's noontime gig. While our guests set up and arrived, we opened up the house for a low-key brunch (which I should have taken pictures of) and we were ready for music by 12:00.


In an acoustic setting, Goh has the voice of Elvis Costello, intelligence of Elliott Smith, and spontaneous wit of Jonathan Richman. I'm serious. (Just ask Stella Lai, hiding behind the camera, or ace jello maker Yee on the end of the bench.) A voice and a guitar is as raw and direct as it gets, but I like it when Goh mixes them up by switching on the effect pedals and samplers. He played for a full hour--not counting a mini concert with "Itsy Bitsy Spider" and "ABC" for Eloise. Such a nice as well as talented guy.


The second set was by The Invisible Cities. It was my first time to hear or meet them, and they did not disappoint. If you like the sweet melodies of The Spinanes or Lois, you'll be a fan. Plus, they're super nice. (Bottom left to Goh: ex-Red Krayola member Sandy Yang, Element shoe designer Paul Kwon, actress Jacqueline Kim)


The show ended with the three performing together. I'm not going to ruin the moment by giving away the last song, but all 20 or so people in attendance were pretty much crying when it was over.


When and where are the next shows? More in L.A. next weekend and then it's off to New York City (including a GRNY gig) the weekend after that. Look them up and watch them online at Follow Your Whim.com. Download their latest albums for free while you're at it. You won't regret either.


Whoa, so much rocking so early in the day... Witness songs from the 9/20 show for yourself HERE.


Watch live video from Goh Nakamura on Justin.tv