Arc de Soleil’s Desert-Inspired Performance at Santa Monica Proper Hotel

An intimate conversation with the artist ahead of his new album release

On June 17, 2025, acclaimed artist Arc de Soleil performed an intimate show at Calabra, Santa Monica Proper’s rooftop terrace, as part of the hotel’s ongoing cultural series, Proper Presents. Just ten days before the release of his new album Lumin Rain, the performance featured a mix of unreleased tracks and fan favorites, showcasing his skills as a multi-instrumentalist—blending guitar-driven melodies with lush textures along California’s coast.

Framed by the Pacific and lit by golden-hour sun, Arc de Soleil’s ambient, soul-stirring set turned the Calabra rooftop into something transcendent. Drawing on sonic inspirations from Egypt’s ancient deserts, the show created an extraordinary juxtaposition where vast, contemplative soundscapes found new life beneath Santa Monica’s open sky.

We sat down with Arc de Soleil before his Santa Monica Proper performance to discuss his creative process, upcoming album, and what drives his artistic vision.

In Conversation with Arc de Soleil

What is the concept behind Lumin Rain?

Lumin Rain came from a very instinctive, almost subconscious place for me. A lot of the melodies arrived fully formed in my head, as if they’d been waiting there: memories, visions, or fragments of dreams. The album was shaped by moments where I felt something beyond the surface of everyday life, especially during my time in Egypt, where the desert and ancient sites made me feel strangely connected to both the past and something bigger than myself.

At its heart, this record is about the longing for meaning and beauty for those rare moments where something real cuts through the noise. The title, Lumin Rain, is my way of describing that feeling: light gently breaking through, reminding you there’s more to this world than what we can see. Each song is a step along that journey.

What’s the one track from Lumin Rain that you’re most excited for people to hear live?

I’m really looking forward to playing “Bina Tifa” live. It has a slow build and a kind of hypnotic momentum that I think will really hit differently in a live setting. There’s a lot of emotion and atmosphere in it, and I’m excited to see how that translates with a crowd, in real time.

What is your inspiration for your personal style?

My style mostly comes from the same place as my music. It’s a mix of nostalgia, simplicity, and a bit of mysticism. I’m into things that feel timeless but have a bit of a story or mood to them. Old films, the desert, vintage pieces, that kind of thing. I like when clothes feel easy and natural, but still say something without trying too hard.

What is inspiring you creatively currently?

Right now, my biggest creative inspiration is my second trip to Egypt. Being there again gave me a whole new perspective. There were so many little details and vibes I didn’t catch the first time around. That experience really opened up new ideas and feelings I’m excited to explore.

Also, as a multi-instrumentalist, I usually write most of my music alone, which is a really personal process. But lately, I’ve also been spending time in the studio working with other artists, and that collaboration is inspiring me in a whole different way, bringing new energy and perspectives that are pushing my sound in exciting directions.

Explore Arc de Soleil’s full discography, including Lumin Rain, on Spotify.

Creating Intimate Moments in LA’s Music Scene

The elevated, open-air scale of Calabra created a level of connection between artist and audience that transformed the traditional concert experience. When Arc de Soleil performed that evening, guests weren’t just listening to music, they were participating in a collective experience that felt both personal and profound, enhanced by the dramatic backdrop of Santa Monica’s skyline and the Pacific Ocean beyond.

The timing added another layer of exclusivity. Coming just ten days before Lumin Rain‘s official release, guests experienced unreleased material in an intimate setting, witnessing an artist in the midst of active creative exploration. Los Angeles’ mix of artists, venues, and cultural spaces attracts not just hotel guests, but cultural tastemakers and industry professionals who recognize when something special is happening.

Arc de Soleil’s ethereal, desert-inspired soundscapes paired seamlessly with Calabra’s rooftop setting. The concept of Lumin Rain, a gentle light breaking through, captured the spirit of the evening as his Egyptian influences met the laid-back energy of the California coast.

How Proper Presents Connects Travelers to Local Culture

Today’s travelers want more than just a place to stay. They’re seeking genuine cultural experiences that connect them to the places they visit. Guests want to discover what makes each destination unique, whether that’s local artists, neighborhood culture, or exclusive access to emerging talent.

Proper Presents has established itself as a platform for remarkable cultural moments. Recent performances have included Grammy-nominated electronic artist Tycho delivering sunset DJ sets, BANKS performing intimate acoustic renditions of new tracks, and Anderson .Paak turning an intimate DJ set into a full-scale performance with live trumpet accompaniment. Beyond music, the series has featured guided natural wine tastings, women’s wellness conversations with Christina Aguilera and Halle Berry, and panels with technologists and environmental advocates.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arc de Soleil and Proper Presents

Where can I listen to Arc de Soleil’s music?

Arc de Soleil’s full discography is available on all major streaming platforms. You can find his latest album Lumin Rain, along with past releases, on Spotify, Apple Music, TIDAL, and more. Whether you’re revisiting the rooftop performance or discovering his sound for the first time, his ambient, desert-inspired tracks are ready to transport.

What is Proper Presents?

Proper Presents is a curated cultural series featuring music, wellness rituals, chef-led tastings, and thought-provoking panels at Proper Hotels. The series creates platforms for meaningful artistic expression and cultural experiences.

Reserve our Proper Presents package and enjoy 15% off our Best Flexible Rate, 2PM late check-out (based on availability) and a stay that includes guaranteed access to featured events,  just steps from your room.

Getting There: Ride to and from any Proper Presents event with Waymo. New users receive 30% off their first 3 rides using code SMPROPER (Santa Monica) or DTLAPROPER (Downtown LA). Download the Waymo One App. T&Cs apply.

Where do Proper Presents performances take place?

Events are held at all Proper Hotel locations. This particular Arc de Soleil performance took place on the Calabra rooftop and terrace at Santa Monica Proper.

Where can I find similar rooftop music events in LA?

Proper Presents events happen at multiple LA locations, including rooftop performances at Santa Monica Proper and intimate shows at Downtown LA Proper.

What makes this cultural series different from traditional concert venues?

The series combines luxury hospitality with intimate, atmospheric performances in unique settings. This particular performance took place on Calabra’s rooftop overlooking the Pacific Ocean at sunset, creating an experience that transcends typical entertainment offerings.

Are events open to non-hotel guests?

Yes, events are open to the public. However, RSVP is not guaranteed unless you reserve a table or have a hotel booking. Hotel guests and those with the Proper Presents package receive guaranteed access and special amenities.

How can I stay updated on upcoming events?

Visit the Proper Presents page to see events across all locations, or check Santa Monica Proper’s happenings page for local events. You can also subscribe to Proper Insider for notifications about upcoming performances.

How can I book tickets for events?

Ticket information is available on the Proper Hotels website as each event is announced.