Eclectic jazz-rock cabaret troupe The WildChildz perform at the Cinema Bar this week as part of the Masquerade Cabaret, so singer Channing Danger told the News about what they have in store for Culver City…
When did you start playing and performing? When did the band form?
We have officially been a band for three years in February. We started as a four piece but only two of us are from the original group, meeting other amazing musicians have inspired us so we have done a lot of growing and changing over the years. We are excited to have a full brass section now.
Describe your sound…
I like to describe us as a Gypsy Cabaret. We are theatrical-story telling. A bit of jazz, rock, punk influences. Very international sounding. My bandmate Ayki, aka The Thing, he is French and plays the accordion and the guitar. We have Spanish influences, and Middle Eastern. He played all around Europe as more of a street performer. I am the singer, Channing Danger.
But I’d have to say we are very eclectic in style, and our band brings a cool mix together on the stage.
What are your career highlights so far?
We love our residency at the Cinema Bar, of course. Topanga Days is a big one for us. So is Venice Fest (Summer & Winter). We have a cool show coming up at The Venice West Venue, and hope to play more Festivals this summer.
What recorded music is available?
We are in the recording studio this week, so stay tuned. Check out our Instagram @Wild_ChildzMusic for clips and more information on upcoming shows. Our YouTube channel and website are being developed as we speak.
Have you performed at Cinema Bar before?
Well it’s our “home” bar. We have had the privilege of playing on this intimate stage for three years now. We finally have our own nights. It’s our “living room” for new songs and material we like to try out, but also where we can feel comfortable like home, have all our friends and feel cozy.
What can we expect from the set this time?
I typically love finding likeminded talent with similar styles, theatrical, storytelling performance pieces. We love lively acts with dancers and performers. What is the Masquerade Cabaret? Dress up, wear a mask, or don’t. But come to be entertained. I’m also always looking to book different acts so please contact us if you know or have a band that would like to join our Cabaret.
What else do you have coming up?
We play on March 17th St Patrick’s Day at MacLeod’s Ale House in Van Nuys at 7 p.m. The Venice West for Deep in Dance, March 24th at 7:30. March 28th is our very own Masquerade Cabaret, with an opening act at 8 called BellaBoom. That’s our very own percussionist, Paula, and her side project. The WildChildz go on at 9 p.m., and our good friends will close the night, The Creeping Devils. A night to remember! Or, if you are looking for a three day thing, Topanga Days on Sunday at 4:30 at the Corral Stage. We started our band out in Topanga, so it’s home too! Don’t forget to come and say hey!
Masquerade Cabaret takes place at 9 p.m. on Saturday, March 28 at the Cinema Bar. Go to thecinemabar.com for more information about the venue.
Elsewhere this week
The next concert at Boulevard Music is on Saturday, March 21, with Muriel Anderson and Jim Kimo West. Then Sunday, March 22 with Michelle Shocked and Cindra Wilson. Go to boulevardmusic.com for more info.