I felt like I stepped into an episode of Boardwalk Empire this past Sunday, as The Mint showcased a compelling hour of soulful jazzy neo-ragtime luster from vocalist and songwriter Dessy Di Lauro and her talented musical group The Hep Kats. A mix of RnB, hip-hop, soul, and ragtime will have you on your feet in no time moving to the modern beats.

Creating a sound inspired by jazz pioneers, Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway, Dessy Di Lauro uses the musical language of the Harlem Renaissance era fused with today’s urban beats, contemporary sounds, and catchy R&B hooks.

The mad fiery dancing of Dessy and her two flailing showgirls along with her talented instrumental band was exhilarating! I was so inspired by the rhythms I even tried to copy the swing moves during the show. From smashing tap dancing, to sexy saxophone melodies, to a trombone beat, to Anon rapping during “Let Me Hear You Say Hep Hep,” LA never ceases to amaze me how a show so vibrant occurred in such a tiny venue for those lucky enough to come out on a Sunday.

We left singing “Hep, Hep!!” while once again amazed at the talent and passion that blooms in Los Angeles.

All photos courtesy of Melissa Curtin.