The Smell. A name that echoes through the Los Angeles underground. A name whispered with reverence by punk rockers and experimental artists alike.
Right here before you stands The Smell. More than just a venue it’s a cultural landmark. Founded in 1998 by Ara Shirinyan Jarrett Silberman and Jim Smith The Smell emerged from the ashes of Jabberjaw and the Impala Cafe two beloved all-ages spaces. It’s a testament to the DIY ethic a haven for creativity where the boundaries of music and art blur.
The Smell’s history is a tapestry woven with both triumph and adversity. It started in North Hollywood but the rising cost of rent forced a relocation to Downtown Los Angeles. A fire code violation nearly shuttered its doors in 2003. Yet Jim Smith the sole owner and a tireless army of volunteers refused to let The Smell die. They poured their heart and soul into renovations reopening in September 2003.
Benefit shows became a lifeline keeping The Smell afloat and true to its all-ages alcohol and drug-free policy. Its impact extends far beyond its walls. The Smell’s reputation grew. Bands like No Age got their start here. The venue even featured in the music video for Hawnay Troof’s “Connection” a hit that climbed the MTV2 charts.
The Smell isn’t just about music. It houses a library a vegan snack bar and a gallery. It’s a community hub. A place where young artists can hone their craft where fans can experience live music without the barriers of age or commercialization. In 2017 a mural appeared on its facade. It proclaimed “Not Our President” a bold statement of defiance during a turbulent time in American politics. The Smell is a statement.
The Smell faced another crisis in 2016. Demolition loomed. Its landlord L&R Group of Companies threatened to raze the building and its neighbors. But the community rallied. They organized benefit shows launched fundraising campaigns. The Smell survived. This victory showcased the profound connection between this small venue and Los Angeles.
Even in 2024 The Smell remains. Twenty One Pilots even filmed a music video here for their song “Next Semester”. The Smell is more than a building. It’s a testament to the power of community a symbol of Los Angeles’s enduring punk rock spirit and an unwavering commitment to artistic freedom. It’s a place where the music plays on.