Understated

Understated is a community, event series, and music crew that has been creating some of the most memorable and exciting underground parties and club events since late 2016. The meaning of the brand name has everything to do with how the company operates – presented or expressed in a subtle and effective way. Understated branched from the idea of connecting people together through amazing music for an unforgettable party, but in a way that is far from going overboard. Although Understated keeps everything minimal, this takes nothing away from the experience; it actually has the opposite effect. Instead of copious lighting production and overbearing promotion, Understated puts its effort into booking artists who will create the perfect environment for the night, which is everything. The taste makers behind the brand put the music first and during their parties they spend the evening talking and dancing with the attendees to make sure everyone is enjoying themselves and feeling included.

Understated started strong with their first party in November 2016 including artists from labels such as Boys Noize Records, Toolroom, Perfect Driver, Dirtybird, and Desert Hearts. Over the course of the next year, they successfully put on several additional parties which had attendees hooked because you can truly feel safe and supported at these special events. Understated is also known for having at least one special, unannounced guest perform a set at every party, some of which have included Kevin Anderson, RYBO, Billy Kenny, Amtrac, Bixel Boys, Madeaux, Kevin Knapp, Mat Zo, Swardy, Franky Rizardo, Thee Mike B, Mija, and DJ Dan. The impressive first year of parties set the tone and distinguished Understated as a leader in the underground scene. The growing fan base was crucial when Understated announced they were to branch out into a label.

The launch of Understated’s record label, Understated Recordings, happened not even one year after the launch of the event series and is powered and curated by the Understated events team, focusing on house, techno, and everything in between that's coming out of LA's thriving underground dance music scene. The first release was a single by Phoenix/LA-based DJ and producer Von Gold in July 2017. Since then, the label has released one EP every month as well as a compilation once a year. The label highlights more of an underground sound and promotes talented up and coming artists. Recently the label has attracted artists from more mainstream labels who submit demos with a different sound than they usually release – stay tuned for these releases which you will see in the next few months. EDM Identity describes the label, “One of the labels in Southern California that clearly has its finger on the pulse of the underground is Understated Recordings. Known for shining a spotlight on artists who can be seen as the next wave of the house and techno scene, these tastemakers have a back catalog of impressive releases.”

This past January the brand celebrated its three-year anniversary by setting up three different stages and showcasing 20 different talented artists. There was nothing but love in the air and although the venue was crowded, you could tell everyone was still comfortable. There are no pretentious people at these parties; everyone is equal and you can truly feel that in the atmosphere. The brand lets their actions speak louder than their words and even though it was a celebration of their anniversary, they wanted to provide a safe space for as many talented artists to play and thrive as possible. Understated is built on supporting one another and aims to strengthen the family of the music community with no hierarchy. The brand is continuing strong so be sure to stay tuned for information regarding their next party.

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