Article Contributed by L. Paul Mann
Published on November 22, 2025
Lobero Theatre | November 13th, 2025 – photos by L. Paul Mann
Lookout Mountain brought the spirit of Laurel Canyon to life on November 13, 2025, transforming the historic Lobero Theatre into a warm, nostalgic haven for fans of one of music’s most influential eras. The all-star ensemble delivered a heartfelt tribute to the artists who shaped the sound of the late 1960s and early 1970s—an era whose cultural and sonic footprints remain unmistakable today.
The concert channeled a time when musicians thrived in the creative sanctuary of Laurel Canyon, where neighbors like Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne, David Crosby, Carole King, and Neil Young forged lifelong friendships while writing songs that became generational touchstones. Lookout Mountain captured that essence beautifully, inviting the audience to relive memories built on harmony, storytelling, and melodic gold.
The tribute was guided by bandleaders Steve Postell and James Raymond. For Raymond—son of the late David Crosby—the project carries a deep personal resonance. “I started thinking about ways I could play really fun music with my friends,” he said. “Once I did a little research on tribute bands, I realized there was a wealth of incredible music to draw from. It just took off from there.”
His father’s spirit was also present. David Crosby had a long history with the Lobero, returning to its stage many times over the years as both a performer and supporter.
Lookout Mountain’s setlist was a lovingly curated mix of classics from Crosby, Stills & Nash, The Byrds, and the many intertwined artists of the Canyon scene. “What’s great is that we could completely change the set list for the next show, and it’d still be great,” Postell explained. “These songs informed us in so many ways as songwriters.”
The evening was further elevated by famed rock photographer Henry Diltz—an essential figure in the Laurel Canyon community. Diltz mingled with musicians, shared personal stories, and offered brief talks before each set, adding rich historical context. “He connects the dots a lot,” Raymond noted, emphasizing how invaluable Diltz’s firsthand experiences are to the project.
The ensemble delivered a vibrant and heartfelt performance, with standout contributions from Kiki Ebsen, Kipp Lennon, Gary Novak, and Jeff Pevar. Special guest Glen Phillips—best known for his work with Toad the Wet Sprocket—added another layer of excitement and emotional resonance.
Every musician brought a distinct energy, weaving their talents into a seamless tribute that honored the original spirit while offering fresh interpretations. The Lobero audience was fully immersed, singing along to timeless classics and savoring the stories behind the music.
The atmosphere was electric yet intimate—an ideal mirror of the Laurel Canyon ethos. Each harmony, guitar line, and anecdote pulled listeners deeper into the emotional landscape of an era that shaped modern songwriting.
As the last notes hung in the air, the crowd rose in enthusiastic applause—not only for the musicians onstage but for the memories the music stirred awake. More than a concert, Lookout Mountain’s performance was a celebration of legacy, community, and the connective power of shared stories.
The tribute underscored the magic that happens when passion, friendship, and timeless songs converge. As the audience filed out into the Santa Barbara night, it was clear the spirit of Laurel Canyon had been rekindled—alive once more beneath the warm glow of the Lobero.
In a world always moving forward, nights like this remind us why we keep returning to the past: for connection, for inspiration, and for the comfort of songs that continue to guide us. Here’s hoping Lookout Mountain returns soon, carrying even more stories and melodies from the heart of Laurel Canyon.
