May is apparently International Masturbation Month (even though July 21st is International Masturbation Day, according to Wikipedia). It’s also Asian Pacific American Heritage Month—a celebration worth having with friends beside (or along with) your JO buddy.
Asian American & Pacific Islander voices have historically been reduced and marginalized in Western-centric music culture, but this month the voices of AAPI artists coalesce in a resounding cheer of affirmation. Enter Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Showcase: a series of events spanning six dates, 24 artists, and several venues across Orange County, Long Beach, and Los Angeles as a collaboration between organizers [Redacted] and Moon Room, with support from KXLU, Allies in Arts, Center for Asian American Media, Color Study Zine, and more. Earnest in conception and DIY in approach, the showcase will feature AAPI solo artists and groups of the Southland breaking new ground with compelling sounds and shattering tired stereotypes as they face systemic issues of cultural (mis)representation head-on.
This Sunday, catch the first free 21+ showcase at Fullerton’s Continental Room featuring Polartropica, Lions!, PAST HYPE, and Phoebe’s Guitar. – Ryan Mo, flyer credit: Roger Hallaway