A Musical Menagerie

Rain Phoenix formed Gift Horse Project in early 2010 with artist and designer AJ Mason. They galvanized a group of singer/songwriters and musicians that would rapidly learn each other’s music and perform dynamic sets showcasing diverse genres and influences from rock and roll to folk, as different songwriters took the lead. The revolving collective has already traveled from the luminescent grid of Los Angeles to the quiet planes of Marfa, Texas, and the narrow avenues of Paris, performing in private residences (Eugenio Lopez donated his Beverly Hills home), galleries (Three-seven Us), and classic venues (Bootleg Theater, Sunset Tower Hotel). Surprise guest performers have included Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Eva Mendes, while the shows have served to benefit Brand Aid, Silverlake Music Conservatory, LAND, and The Art of Elysium. Here we profile the group’s current members—each of whom are notable talents in their own right—in a photo series shot by Mason. Rollover "credits" for more info on each performer.