Last week, a Facebook post began circulating that contained anonymous sexual harassment accusations against Donnie Rife, the owner of the Analog Café on Southeast Hawthorne (he also fronts local band Smoochknob and runs DRD Records). The now-deleted post included quotes from Rife's alleged victims that described instances of groping, obscene remarks, physical assaults, and intimidation.
Analog has since shut down visitor posts to their Facebook page. Yelp reviews dating back to 2016 accuse Analog staff of sexism, ableism, and harassment.
In response to the post, DJ Anjali and the Incredible Kid announced their plans to relocate their monthly Andaz dance party in an email to the Mercury: “Due to recent sexual harassment allegations made against the owner, DJ Anjali and the Incredible Kid are no longer performing at the Analog Theater.”
Local musician Tony Vilorio says she canceled her band Bug Seance’s show at the Analog after seeing the anonymous accusations against Rife on Facebook: “I saw the post and immediately contacted the promoter/touring bands. We let them know that risking the safety of our friends/community was non-negotiable and that we would be dropping the show, the other local [band] Being Awone agreed to do the same out of solidarity and the touring bands willingly took the day off rather than play a compromised venue.”
Rife declined to comment when the Mercury asked about the Analog cancellations and recent allegations, but says he plans to make an official statement next week.
