The DIY scene in Southern California is one of those things you either participate in or are a spectator. The High Curbs from Chino, CA have been doing it for over 10 years, and they’re a testament for resilience and endurance. The band recently released their album THC which is their 4th LP on May 24th of this year. The album is a mix of everything that’s come before them and everything the band currently represents. It’s a blend of surf, garage, and punk rock, that all finds its footing in the scene that they’ve been instrumental in.
The band on tour for their latest album stopped to play at the Voodoo Room in downtown San Diego. The line up was a mix of various genres; Blossom played some heavy alternative shoegaze, Aren’t We Amphibians beautifully constructed emo music, and Astronaut Samurais’ came in with hard edged surf rock. This musical variety paved the path for the Friday night’s headliner, The High Curbs. Lead singer Ed Moreno brings a certain grit and energy to his vocals and as the frontman, he provides all the energy to deliver a fun and engaging set. The band has had rotating members throughout its existence but the current iteration of the band is the most lethal it’s ever been. Alberto Alvarenga, Kenny Huerta (bass), Taylor Hecocks (second guitar), and Aaron Korbe make up the rest of the band. There is a level of unity amongst the members that allows them to play a tight set that doesn’t feel ridged or stale for the duration of the show. The High Curbs represent the DIY culture and are participants in the scene and after 10 years the band sounds even more vital than they did when they first started, having just released their best album to date and playing one of the tightest sets I’ve seen from the band.
Check out some photos from the show below along with a partial video of the set!
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