PASADENA, CA— Community members gathered at Urban Homestead in Pasadena for an evening of live music featuring The Nextdoors, the wife-and-husband Americana duo of Mika Larson and Russell Mark. Before the performance, one of the Urban Homestead owners welcomed attendees and introduced the duo, setting the stage for a night of locally inspired music in one of Pasadena’s longstanding community spaces. (Video below of one of their songs)
Founded in 1985, Urban Homestead has become a well-known destination for sustainable living, urban agriculture, and community education. The family farm continues to provide fresh produce while offering hands-on homesteading opportunities that connect residents with gardening, food production, and self-sufficiency.
The Nextdoors have steadily built a following with their distinctive blend of Americana and folk-inspired songwriting. Their debut album, Linda Vista, was recorded at home during the COVID-19 pandemic and features a cello-rich sound that has resonated with audiences across the country.
The album is available for purchase and streaming through the duo’s official platforms, and their music has received radio airplay nationwide. Their lead single, “Awaken,” reached the No. 1 position on WBSD radio in Wisconsin, marking an important milestone for the Pasadena-based musicians.
Like many artists, The Nextdoors faced challenges during the pandemic, performing primarily online and at backyard gatherings before returning to public stages in 2023. Their first public performance after the pandemic took place at Wild Parrot Brewery during an event they called Neighbor Day, drawing a packed audience that included Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo and members of his staff.
Following the performance, Mayor Gordo praised the duo, stating:
“The Nextdoors are one of the true gems of the city.”
The recognition highlighted the growing appreciation for the group’s contributions to Pasadena’s local music scene and their ability to bring neighbors together through live performances.
The concert at Urban Homestead continued that tradition, offering attendees an intimate setting where music and community came together. Surrounded by the gardens and educational spaces that have defined Urban Homestead for decades, guests enjoyed an evening celebrating local talent and one of Pasadena’s unique gathering places.
For Presence News, events like these reflect the importance of preserving community spaces where local artists, neighbors, and organizations can connect in meaningful ways.
Learn More
- The Nextdoors: nextdoorsmusic.com
- Russell Mark Music: russellmarkmusic.com
- Urban Homestead: urbanhomestead.org
