Staff Editor on August 26th, 2019

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There was a lot of ground to cover at the fourth edition of Happy Sundays in Long Beach. The mini-festival took place across nine venues along a two-mile stretch of Anaheim Street in the the Zaferia District, anchored by Alex’s Bar. This was the fourth edition of the free, all-day festival, with more than 40 artists and DJs performing and two trolleys ferrying attendees between venues.

“This year ran a lot smoother than past years,” co-founder Scott Montoya told Buzz Bands LA. “We got our sea legs last year. We spent money the right way this year. We got two trolleys instead of one. We got a tent for our outdoor stage. We got sponsors.” Then, looking to the future, he added: “Next year, we’re planning on going a lot bigger.”

Some highlights from around fest:

Hottest and sweatiest

By the time the Coathangers hit the stage at Alex’s Bar, the venue had turned into a hot and sweaty steam room. That didn’t prevent the packed crowd from turning up the temperature as they slammed and jumped and reached out to their heroes. Drummer Stephanie Luke yelled out during the set, “Who wants a shot of tequila?” The crowd screamed back, “Yeah!!!” She retorted, “I”m not talking to you all. I don’t have the money. I’m talking to these two bitches.” As their set came to a close, the band members switched off on drum duties, giving Luke the opportunity to front the band.

Craziest back-to-back

Maybe it was something about Quincy Larsen? She performed with Kevin at Alex’s Bar and then arrived back onstage moments later to perform with Cat Scan. Then things got weird. A random guy jumped on stage, grabbed the microphone Kanye West-style, made his proclamation and then took a stage dive. The band had some bemused and confused looks during the whole episode. Then, as one song ended, a fan handed the band a shoe that someone had lost in the mosh pit.

Most emotional set

Montoya and his wife, Julia Kugel-Montoya of the Coathangers, performed a set at Red Leprechaun as White Woods. One song got the best of Julia, who ended the song in tears. “Sometimes, I get lost,” she said as she wiped away the tears. The packed venue gave the band a standing ovation at the end of the set.

No sitting allowed

The trippy sounds of Tropa Magica had fans dancing and head-bobbing outside Analog Records. A couple folks brought lawn chairs. The chairs weren’t in use as the crowd pressed around the band.

Best reason to get on the trolley

Catching the sweet vocals of Janelane meant taking a trolley ride to DiPiazza’s. Sophie Negrini ended the set with the obligatory thank-yous, “And thank you DaPiazza’s.” Bandmate Gina whispered, “DiPiazza’s.” Sophia immediately corrected, “DiPiazza’s.” Then whispered, “Fuck.”

Photos and recap by Notes From Vivace