Today we’d like to introduce you to Harbor Party Alex Ellis and Jack Kovacs.
Hi Alex and Jack, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Our story began in 2014 as a collective of LA musicians who had been playing together for many years prior. Over time we realized we shared a love of Yacht Rock so undeniable that there was simply no other choice but to form a band and pay tribute to the smooth music of the BigTime™ LA studio scene of the late 70s and early 80s. We started performing at the legendary Rockwood Table and Stage. After that, we shifted our residency to Good Times at Davey Wayne’s, LA’s premiere 70’s themed bar. We’ve since charted a new course that has found us at Lodge Room in Highland Park.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Fortunately, we’ve seen clear skies and smooth waters through our years at sea. Our special bond as a band has kept us not only together and thriving but expanding to the 12-piece version you now see today. However, we have certainly seen our share of stormy seas. The pandemic was rough for just about every live band, and getting that wind back in our sails has been a challenge at times. This year we really feel like the wind is at our backs once again.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
We consider ourselves Yacht Rock Specialists. As for the music we tribute, think Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, Steely Dan, Toto, Al Jarreau — just some of the artists that define our set lists, as well as our hometown’s signature sound. But we also know how to rock an 80’s New Wave jam or throw down on classic 70’s funk. We can nail just about any retro sound you can think of, but we try to stay true to our roots with plenty of Certified Yacht Rock in our set lists. What sets us apart from other Yacht Rock acts is our unmatched passion for the intricacies of this style, delivering a studio-quality performance to the stage every time. There’s also no substitute for all the years we’ve been playing together; 8 years as a band and over a decade as a collective. Our next live show is MAY 26TH, 2023 at The Lodge Room in Highland Park! All ages! Doors open at 8pm! Come get on the boat!
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Our favorite childhood memory would have to be the video of our Lead Singer, not quite three years old, singing Toto’s “Rosanna” like it was his destiny. That song had just come out on the radio, and the passion for the music from that moment was on full display.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.harborparty.com
- Instagram: @harborparty
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarborParty@harborparty
- Twitter: @harborparty
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HarborParty
Image Credits
Kat Hennessey London Alexander
