Gold Dust Lounge

Gold Dust Lounge is the brainchild of Miami-bred guitarist and composer Russell Mofsky, blending surf-rock swagger, cinematic noir vibes, and punk energy into a signature sound described as “ambient rock” or “exotica surf rock.” Formed around 2009 with drummer Steve Watt, the project evolved into a rotating collective featuring collaborators like Arturo Garcia (drums) and Brian Tate (bass), known for crafting reverb-drenched instrumentals that channel influences from Dick Dale to Radiohead. Their 2014 album *Lost Sunset*—funded through Kickstarter—showcases their adventurous spirit, merging surf, spy, and jazz elements into what critics call “soundtracks for imaginary films,” with live performances channeling the retro-cool neon glow of Miami’s music scene.

Mofsky’s background in Miami’s punk scene (including the band Quit) infuses Gold Dust Lounge’s music with an unpredictable edge, balancing nostalgic nods to vintage lounge acts and spaghetti Western scores with modern experimentation. Described as a “tour of your cool neighbor’s garage studio,” their work has earned praise for its spacious, cinematic quality and genre-defying live shows, which often feature surprise guests and unpredictable setlists.