Microsoft Opens “Zune L.A.”

It looks like Microsoft is upping the ante on the digital music player competition. Zune, Microsoft’s answer to Apple’s iPod, has opened a new concept space in Los Angeles designed to promote the Zune player as well as music and arts centered events.It looks like Microsoft is upping the ante on the digital music player competition. Zune, Microsoft’s answer to Apple’s iPod, has opened a new concept space in Los Angeles designed to promote the Zune player as well as music and arts centered events.

Microsoft recently bought what was once a photography studio on Beverly Boulevard and converted the three-story space into what Zune general manager for global marketing, Chris Stevenson calls a “clubhouse for the creative community in L.A.”

The Los Angeles Times describes the space as having “more in common with gallery/restaurant hybrids.” The Zune “club” offers a new take on the traditional club atmosphere; instead of deafening music and a dark room sporadically lit with flashing strobe lights, Zune L.A. is bright and invites conversation. Project Manager for Zune L.A., Jamaal Layne describes the club experience as like “walking into an actual Zune player.”

In the last month, Zune L.A. has hosted performances by musicians Janelle Monae and Marc Ford in addition to the concept club’s opening fete, which featured Temporary Spaces founder Sean Patrick at the turntables. Soon to come is a screening of Joy Division: The Documentary followed by DJ session courtesy of Joy Division bassist, Peter Hook. The exclusive club is still by-invitation-only, but Stephenson hopes Zune L.A. will become “a cultural hub.” Bring it on, Apple.