PHOTOS: Electronic Music Venue ORIGIN Launches in the Arts District

A New Hub for Electronic Music: Welcome to ORIGIN
The vibrant landscape of Los Angeles’s electronic music scene has welcomed a new beacon of sound and creativity with the grand opening of ORIGIN. Nestled in the heart of the Arts District at 613 Imperial Street, this new permanent address for electronic music made its debut over the weekend of October 9-10. Under the stewardship of veteran local promoters Roni Mehrabian and Cyril Bitar, ORIGIN is set to redefine the clubbing experience in a city known for its eclectic rhythms and nightlife diversity.
A Dream Two Decades in the Making
Roni Mehrabian and Cyril Bitar are no strangers to shaping the underground music calendar in Los Angeles. With over two decades of combined experience, the duo has been instrumental in creating memorable experiences through well-known brands like SBCLTR and Minimal Effort, alongside popular events such as Brunch Electronik and The Maze Festival. The opening of ORIGIN is more than just the launch of a new venue; it represents a culmination of their passion for electronic music and desire to foster a vibrant community around it.
Architectural Fusion: The Design of ORIGIN
The transformation of the site previously known as LOT 613 into ORIGIN reflects a fusion of industrial style with functionality and modern design. Designed by Marc Dizon, whose portfolio includes high-profile projects like Brooklyn Mirage and Hakkasan, ORIGIN features an indoor-outdoor arrangement with a capacity of approximately 1,000 people. This innovative layout incorporates a main room adjacent to a large patio, allowing for seamless transitions from intimate late-night sets to lively daytime gatherings.
One of the standout features of ORIGIN is its impressive audio setup. Equipped with a state-of-the-art KV2 Audio system, the venue promises to deliver consistent, high-quality sound throughout its spaces, from the dance floor to the mezzanine. Additionally, a separate outdoor sound system ensures that the energy of patio events matches the intensity of nighttime performances.
A Weekend of Unforgettable Music
The opening weekend of ORIGIN was a showcase of the diverse talent that will grace its stages. On the first night, fans were treated to a captivating performance by MRAK, the solo venture of Carmine Conte, half of acclaimed duo Tale Of Us. The following day featured a dynamic lineup, with Brazil’s Malive and Greece’s Liva K headlining an outdoor afternoon session, followed by a deep and immersive set from DJ Kölsch as night descended.
This dual-format programming underscores ORIGIN’s commitment to offering a diverse and engaging musical experience. With plans to maintain this rhythm, Fridays will spotlight established and independent electronic acts, while Saturdays will alternate between daytime outdoor parties and late-night house and techno.
A Community Hub: More than Just a Club
ORIGIN is positioned not just as a music venue but as a cultural hub for the Arts District and beyond. The founders envision it as a long-term commitment to sustain the electronic music scene alongside broader community activities and artistic expressions. After facing various challenges following the pandemic, this new space is a beacon of hope and energy, injecting life back into a neighborhood that thrives on creativity and connection.
By establishing ORIGIN, Mehrabian and Bitar provide both locals and visitors with a place to gather, dance, and celebrate the rich tapestry of electronic music culture that Los Angeles has to offer. Their effort to revitalize the scene signals a new chapter filled with promise, collaboration, and artistic exploration.
The Future of ORIGIN
As ORIGIN settles into its new role as a fixture in the electronic music scene, it is clear that this venue will be a pillar of community engagement, creativity, and, most importantly, unforgettable musical experiences. The team behind it is dedicated to nurturing the spirit of electronic music in Los Angeles, inviting everyone to join in the rhythm of this exciting new era. With the promise of stellar lineups and an adaptable space, ORIGIN is poised to become a key player in the city’s nightlife, one beat at a time.