On Saturday night, the Barrel Room at AleSmith Brewing Company buzzed with energy, artistry, and community spirit as Music Matters, a benefit concert celebrating the second anniversary of The Music Company, brought together three standout local acts for a night that showcased the heart of San Diego’s independent music scene.
Hosted by The Music Company—a nonprofit that has quickly become a hub for creative collaboration, mentorship, and affordable studio access—the event was more than a concert. It was a call to action and a celebration of everything this incubator stands for. With a lineup featuring Hannah Geller, Kela Sako, and Sandollar, the night unfolded like a perfectly curated mixtape—each act offering something unique, yet united by a shared spirit of authenticity and musical passion.
Hannah Geller: Psychedelic Blues with a Surf Twist
Opening the night, Hannah Geller drew the audience in with her psychedelic-tinged, genre-fusing performance that blended elements of blues, alternative rock, and surf music. Geller’s artistry is fluid, unpredictable, and emotionally rich—a tone-setter that established the concert as a space for musical exploration. Her performance was intimate yet expansive, offering just the right touch of mystery and mood to open the show.
Kela Sako: Soulful Storytelling and Island Grooves
But it was Kela Sako, the second act of the evening, who delivered the most emotionally charged and musically dynamic performance of the night. From the moment she stepped on stage, Sako radiated authenticity, connection, and a heartfelt sense of gratitude. Performing “Speed Bumps,” the title track of her debut EP featuring the evening’s headliners, Sandollar, she invited the audience into a rich blend of island grooves, soulful expression, and rock-tinged energy.
Backed by a sharp, well-rehearsed band, Sako flowed effortlessly between breezy, rhythm-driven arrangements and moments of raw, soul-bearing intensity. Elements of jazz, rock, and gospel intertwined with island warmth, creating a genre-crossing sound that felt fresh yet deeply rooted. Her vocals—earthy, emotive, and full of nuance—held the crowd in rapt attention.
Between songs, Sako shared glimpses of her journey with The Music Company, reflecting on a chance invitation to a jam session last fall that led to a songwriting clinic and, ultimately, the opportunity to record a live Beach Break Session. Her story, much like her music, was a testament to openness, community, and creative discovery.
“They believed in me before they knew me,” she told the crowd. “And now they’re part of the reason I get to be here tonight.”
The sense of full-circle energy was palpable—this was more than a set. It was a thank-you letter set to music.
Sandollar: A High-Energy Coastal Finale
Closing out the evening was Sandollar, and they delivered exactly what the crowd had been waiting for—a high-energy, coastal-infused finale blending reggae, Southern rock, and SoCal vibes with total ease. The band, known for their award-winning album Under the Water, brought the Barrel Room to life with feel-good rhythms, impeccable grooves, and a clear connection to the crowd.
It wasn’t just a performance; it was a party. The dance floor filled, heads nodded in sync, and even the venue staff couldn’t help but vibe along. Their chemistry and musicianship made for the perfect close to an already memorable night—and their collaborative moment with Kela Sako during her earlier set added an extra layer of connection that tied the evening together beautifully.
More Than a Concert: A Mission to Empower Musicians
Throughout the event, supporters bid on silent auction items and learned more about The Music Company’s mission: to provide affordable, accessible resources for San Diego musicians regardless of background or budget.
By the Numbers: 500+ musicians supported, 100+ workshops and labs hosted, 100+ live videos produced, All funded by donations and community support
Executive Director Ted Pawela reminded the audience that in just two years, The Music Company has created a thriving ecosystem for local artists—one where mentorship, collaboration, and passion drive success.
“Saturday night’s Music Matters proved that investing in local talent isn’t just worthwhile—it’s transformative.”
And with artists like Kela Sako and Sandollar at the forefront, the future of San Diego’s music scene looks brighter—and more soulful—than ever.
Learn more & support local musicians at: www.TMCMusic.org
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