Photo by Charlie Park
Palos Verdes’ very own indie sensation, Rec Hall, has taken the music scene by storm this summer with the release of their infectiously upbeat single, “Pontiac,” dropping at the close of July. This track comes hot on the heels of their debut sensation, “She Doesn’t Get It,” a tune that has organically garnered over a staggering 18 million Spotify streams and continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Comprising the vibrant sounds of John Barry (guitar, vocals), Lance Meliota (drums), and Ben Tyrrell (guitar, bass), Rec Hall’s modern and fresh take on indie music caught the attention of Arista Recordings. The trio recently sealed the deal with the label, an achievement that materialized while they were immersed in jam sessions and studio recordings in their Palos Verdes garage.
The band’s morning surf sessions are followed by intensive afternoon music sessions that stretch into the late hours, demonstrating a tireless work ethic they’ve been building together since high school.
Rec Hall’s music effortlessly blends the essence of indie, rock, and coastal alternative, reflecting their roots in the South Bay. Their collective journey began during their high school days at Palos Verdes High and Torrance High, marked by a series of triumphant victories in various “Battle of the Bands” competitions.
Throughout their college years, the trio enriched their songwriting process by rotating instruments, resulting in a multi-dimensional sonic experience. Drawing inspiration from the waves crashing against the PV cliffs, Rec Hall crafts music that resonates deeply with their listeners, capturing the essence of their surroundings.
“I was raised in Palos Verdes Estates. I was always fascinated with surfing but it wasn’t until 2020 that I truly understood the magic of the surf in Palos Verdes. Being down at Bluff Cove is truly magical and seeing how the seasons affect the landscape will forever stick with me. My favorite time of year is in spring when the bluffs are littered with yellow and purple flowers,” says guitarist and vocalist John Barry.
Their latest release, “Pontiac,” delves into the theme of rekindling old friendships. Rec Hall explained, “As we dedicated ourselves to our music in Palos Verdes, many of our friends ventured elsewhere and embarked on new journeys. Reuniting with them inevitably sparks contemplation about the changes and constants in our lives.”
Guitarist and bassist Ben Tyrrell graduated from Torrance High but feels deeply connected to the Peninsula. “As a kid, any chance I got to hang around PV with its hikes, cliffs, and coves, was a treat, it felt like my local patch of Eden. As an adult I enjoy bird watching in PV, and count Palos Verdes’s Wayfarer’s Chapel as one of my favorite places on Earth,” he says.
Drummer Lance Meliota shares that making music every day in PV is one of his greatest joys and the surrounding landscape feeds his soul. ” I love the secrets hidden throughout the hill. Growing up it was so me to ride around discovering these spots. Whether it be a secluded beach or a stream with a rope swing, PV always felt like a place that I could call mine.”
Eagerly forging ahead, Rec Hall is currently immersed in creating and recording new tracks, building anticipation for the launch of their debut EP.
Save the date: Rec Hall is set to rock the stage at Brouwerij West on September 30, 2023.
For more details, visit: https://www.brouwerijwest.com/events
Instagram: @rechallmusic or Rec Hall (@rechallmusic) • Instagram photos and videos
Website: www.rechallmusic.com
