La Sera

La Sera

La Sera is an indie rock group from Los Angeles, United States, active since 2010. The project centres on Katy Goodman, who is also known for her work in Vivian Girls. The group’s line-up includes Goodman, Jenn Prince, Jonathan Weinberg and Tod Adrian Wisenbaker.

Early releases

La Sera begins with material recorded in spring 2009 by Goodman and her friend Brady Hall, a filmmaker and music producer. The project signs to Hardly Art in 2010 and issues the 7-inch single Never Come Around later that year. A second 7-inch, Devils Hearts Grow Gold, follows in January 2011 and includes a cover of “Dedicated to the One I Love”, originally by The “5” Royales.

Debut album and style

The self-titled debut album appears in 2011. It presents short songs built around themes of heartbreak, love and death, with dreamy guitar, reverb-heavy harmonies and a softer approach than Goodman’s work in Vivian Girls. The project’s sound draws on ethereal vocals and 1950s and 1960s pop influences. The video for “Never Come Around” is made by Hall, and the album artwork is designed by Cassie Ramone of Vivian Girls.

Sees the Light

For the second La Sera album, Goodman works with Rob Barbato, who produces and plays guitar, and Dan Allaire on drums. Tim Presley and Tony Bevilacqua also contribute. Sees the Light is released by Hardly Art in 2012 and shifts attention further toward songwriting and Goodman’s voice, with less emphasis on reverb and layered harmonies.

Tours and collaborations

In 2012, La Sera tours extensively, including East and West Coast dates, a month in Europe and a full US tour supporting Father John Misty.