Every Wednesday night at The Federal in North Hollywood, some of LA's most talented musicians gather for an extraordinary free jam session called The Federal Affair. This weekly event showcases premier freelance musicians in their 20s and 30s who regularly tour with major artists like Eminem, Dr. Dre, Kimbra, Earth Wind and Fire, Jennifer Lopez, and Beyoncé.

The house band, led by virtuoso bassist Frank Abraham, provides the foundation for an ever-rotating cast of performers. Musicians trade places throughout the night, featuring everything from vocalists and instrumentalists to unexpected talents like world-renowned tap dancer Sarah Reich, known for her work with Postmodern Jukebox and So You Think You Can Dance.

What makes The Federal Affair special isn't just the caliber of talent - it's the community it creates. As Abraham puts it, it's simply "an opportunity to play good music with your friends." This environment serves as both a creative outlet and a networking hub where musicians can connect with peers they rarely see while touring.

For working musicians, these connections are invaluable. When performers need substitutes for gigs, they typically turn to fellow musicians they know and trust rather than strangers. The Federal Affair provides a space where these relationships form naturally, leading to more work opportunities through personal referrals.

The jam session represents more than just a weekly gathering - it's a vital part of LA's music ecosystem where top talent can reconnect with their passion for music while building the relationships that sustain their careers.

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