SATURDAY, AUGUST 11:

Shortly after I’d laboriously transplanted myself from London to L.A. a couple of years ago, I happened to walk past a place called Club Bahia on Sunset in Echo Park. The marquee had the words “Very Be Careful” on it, and the throbbing vallenato sounds emanating from the club strongly indicated that whatever was going on inside was, indeed, quite the rager. There was also a sizable assortment of people spilling out onto the sidewalk, most of whom were displaying open and cheerful disregard for public consumption laws. At the time I was somehow under the impression that living in Echo Park meant I was liable to get stabbed at any given moment, so I didn’t stick around. Two years down the line and no longer needlessly fearing for my life, my perception of both VBC and their ‘hood are a little more up-to-date. A VBC show isn’t so much a performance as a communal celebration; it’s very much an interactive experience, and the driving, pounding rhythms make it practically impossible not to dance. The music is as authentic as it gets, but also possesses an urban punk quality that makes it totally current and relevant. It literally transcends social barriers with indie kids, neighborhood locals, hipsters and hip-hop dudes all in attendance and equally united in appreciation. VBC is as fascinating a musical, social and cultural melting pot as you’re likely to find in any club in this city. (JT)

AT THE BORDELLO, 901 E. 1ST ST., LOS ANGELES. FIRST SET 10:30 PM / SECOND SET 12 AM / $10 / 21+. WWW.FOLDSILVERLAKE.COM.