Funky rock act This Whole Time–Aziz Yehia, Christian Tomita, Spencer Danielson and Michael Finch–perform at the Cinema Bar this week, so they told the News about what they have in store for Culver City…
When did you start playing and performing? When did the band form?
This Whole Time officially formed in 2019, but we’ve been playing music with each other ever since grade school (mid 2000s)! From jazz bands and orchestra to garage rock bands back in the day. We all went to Santa Monica High, and after graduating we parted our separate ways, had our own musical journeys during college, and then moved back home after college and started up our group. We’re now in our 30s, and the nice thing about playing with these guys today is that there’s real familiarity and trust from both a personal and musical standpoint. We know this is something that’s unique —it’s not everyday when you hear about bands whose members have been friends for practically their entire lives! This long term bond is also the inspiration for our band’s name.
Describe your sound…
Eclectic. Think jam band rock/funk/soul.
What are your career highlights so far?
We just released our debut album this past spring! That was a year’s worth of recording and producing. Also headlining the Venice West was a highlight too.
What recorded music is available?
Check Spotify, Apple Music, and anywhere you stream music for our self-titled debut album “This Whole Time”. It’s all original songs about life, love, friendships, and time.
Have you performed at Cinema Bar before?
Yes! February of 2020 right before the world shut down. We were a different band back then (and also played under a different name), but we’re excited to be back playing at our local Cinema Bar! Most of us are local here in Culver City, so it’s meaningful for us to be making music here in our community.
What can we expect from the set this time?
Spontaneity and joy. We’re crossing over into a much more jam band-based approach to our live shows. We’ll start the song one way, improv solo along the way, and embark on a musical journey together —both the band and the listener!
What else do you have coming up?
More shows around our beloved Culver City and the westside! We’re all local here. Our goal is to continue being part of Culver City’s soundtrack
This Whole Time performs at 8 p.m. on Thursday, October 22 at the Cinema Bar. Go to thecinemabar.com for more information about the venue.
Elsewhere this week
The next concert at Boulevard Music is at 8 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, with In The Big Round. Go to boulevardmusic.com for more info.