A Musician at the Helm: Legendary guitarist Chris Poland, best known for his work with Megadeth in the band’s early years and his long-running jazz fusion outfit OHM, has spent nearly three decades as a central figure behind the scenes at one of Los Angeles’ most vital rehearsal hubs. Originally arriving at the facility in the late ‘90s when it was still known as Downtown Rehearsal, Poland took on whatever work was needed—cleaning rooms, handling maintenance, and gradually stepping into management.
Over the past 27 years, he has evolved into the driving force overseeing a sprawling creative ecosystem that has supported generations of artists across genres, from established bands like The Strokes, Warpaint, Fear Factory, The Melvins, and Fantômas, to emerging young bands like Julie. His deep roots in the music community and hands-on leadership have helped maintain the space as an essential resource for working musicians.
A Hub for Creative Community: Rebranded in early 2026 as 7th Street Rehearsal, the expansive downtown L.A. facility spans approximately 90,000 square feet and houses over 200 rehearsal spaces of varying sizes—from compact drum rooms ideal for shredding to large-scale band rooms exceeding 800 square feet. Many spaces feature coveted window access, while others include control and tracking room capabilities used for professional recording and production. Designed with double-wall construction and sound isolation techniques that minimize bleed, the rooms provide a high-quality environment for serious rehearsal. With 24/7 access, month-to-month leases, ample free onsite parking, easy load-in, building security, and a central location, the facility has long been a go-to destination for hundreds of bands. Recently, when the previous management stepped away and the future of the space was uncertain, billionaire philanthropists and arts patrons Stewart and Lynda Resnick of The Wonderful Company stepped in to preserve it—recognizing that closing the complex would displace hundreds of musicians with few viable alternatives in Los Angeles. Under new leadership, plans are underway for building upgrades and enhanced community amenities to support evolving artist needs.
Legacy and Forward Motion: Beyond managing the facility, Poland remains deeply active as a recording artist and collaborator. While OHM continues to explore heavy fusion territory, he is also preparing new material for M-Theory Audio that draws inspiration from guitar legends like Jeff Beck and John McLaughlin. In addition, Poland is featured extensively on Black Flame, the upcoming Cleopatra Records release by Nuclear Messiah, a project spearheaded by label president Brian Perera featuring nearly 40 guest musicians, including icons like Rick Wakeman, Bumblefoot, Pat Travers, Mick Box (Uriah Heep), and past Megadeth alumni such as Marty Friedman, David Ellefson, and many more. As 7th Street Rehearsal enters its next chapter, Poland’s dual role as artist and mentor ensures that the space remains not only a professional facility, but a living, evolving music community where established players and emerging talents alike can develop their sound and sustain the creative spirit of Los Angeles music.
Contact: 7th Street Rehearsal, 818-232-1474
