From left to right: Kevin Starr, Jake "The Preacher" Cavaliere, John "Big Drag" Saletra, Johnny "Stiggs" Devilla, not pictured Shawn "Sonic" Medina
Named for the infamous speedway immortalized in the Rolling Stones concert film, Gimme Shelter, the Lords of Altamont evoke the feeling of psychedelic influenced, 60’s, biker culture. Their collective black hair, skinny jeans, fitted tees and obligatory tattoos unify them as an old school punk rock band. Personally, I appreciate the effort. Their attitudes and attire are more reminiscent of the Steve McQueens of the motorcycle movie world, than say, the Peter Fondas.
4 out of 5 members of the band are at Studio 9 in Hollywood tonight laying down tracks for their new EP. Jake “The Preacher” Cavaliere admits that he’s the wrangler of the band. “I always try to keep it interesting. It’s not like we’re kids. We just want to be able to sustain a lifestyle that allows us to keep making music and possibly pay our bills.”
The rumble of vintage amplifiers, effects, heavy beats in 4/4 time permeate their latest effort. The mood is fearless. When you love music like these guys, and live in that intensity its all about the sound. The lyrics? Not so much.
The most ingratiating thing about the Lords of Altamont is that in this all-access, downloadable, genre within a genre world, they continue to just make honest rock n’ roll. Get a little of it in you Friday, March 27th, at Vertigos, 801 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA.
Words & photos by Barbie Brady
Saletra Rocks!!!