Family Fun in the California Sun at Punk In The Park San Diego
All photos by Goody James
It’s a simple fact that a music festival which takes place on grass during the fall is about 1,000 times less miserable than a summertime festival on asphalt. But that’s not the only thing Punk In The Park got right about their San Diego stop last weekend. A line-up that couldn’t be more “Southern Californian,” an all-star roster of vendors, and San Diego’s famous good weather all contributed to the success of this single-day festival.
All photos by Goody James
Winterhaven opened the show, followed by South Bay death rockers Slaughterhouse. Then Buck-O-Nine, the hometown heroes of the day, kicked off the ska portion of the day. They also lit the fire of nostalgia that would burn throughout the day and night as attendees of all ages revisited the soundtrack of the 1990s and 2000s. In fact, one of the coolest parts of the day was the fact that it was family-friendly.
The intensity of the day shifted gears when Voodoo Glow Skulls took the stage. Even people in the beer line started skanking when they opened with the frantic up beats of “Human Piñata.” A drunk punk holding a can of the new Pennywise West Coast Pale Ale from Rad Beer Co. shouted “I should have just gotten a Pabst!” as he ran towards the pit.
Voodoo Glow Skulls’ original vocalist, Frank Casillas, just returned to the microphone earlier this year after a 7 year break from the band. “Shouts out to my homie Efrem (Martinez Shulz) for filling in,” he said in between songs. “Much love to him!” Schulz would later take the stage with Manic Hispanic.
Back in 1994, Voodoo Glow Skulls released their first full-length album on Dr. Strange Records. Bill “Doc” Plaster, who just celebrated the 36th anniversary of his label and shop, had a Dr. Strange booth set up at the festival where attendees could shop for records and meet members of Voodoo Glow Skulls! Plaster recently wrote a book about the story of Dr. Strange Records, which is a must-read for punk rock fans and historians alike!
As if any more proof was needed that the vinyl resurgence is in full swing, there were at least two record vendors at Punk In The Park San Diego. In addition to Dr. Strange, West Covina’s Driptone Records was also selling vinyl, and even offered to hold purchased items until the end of the night.
One of Punk With A Camera’s many radical designs.
Houston, Texas-based screen printer, merchandise creator, and filmer, Punk With A Camera, also brought a crew and set up a tent. Their distinctive, politically-charged shirts, patches, and stickers kept their booth busy throughout the event.
The Punk With A Camera crew made the trek from Houston!
As Manic Hispanic took the stage, Chalino Sanchez’s “Alma Enamorada” blasted from the speakers. Louie Perez III, one of the band’s three vocalists, shouted, “Your favorite Mexicans have arrived!” before their drummer counted in “Wasted.”
Manic Hispanic
Simply put, Manic Hispanic’s set was a ton of fun. Their Chicano-centric parodies of classic punk songs are not only perfect mosh fuel, but also comedic bits that often border on social commentary. Their three vocalists wrestled with each other and jumped around the stage while the rhythm section tore through one legendary riff after the other.
The porta potty line reached its longest point of the day during Face To Face’s set.
Surgeon General’s Warning: Quitting smoking now greatly reduces serious risks to your health.
By the time Streetlight Manifesto went on, the sun had been long gone and the moon was full. Lead guitarist, singer, and songwriter Tomas Kalnoky took his place at stage right and the horn section spread across the center of the stage. When the band played “We Will Fall Together,” it seemed like the entire crowd was singing along to the chorus.
Streetlight Manifesto
Kalnoky is an incredible songwriter and musically, Streetlight Manifesto are extremely tight. They navigated through tempo changes, driving ska, and danceable rhythms as a singular unit. Their horn section is powerful and in tune. They delivered one of the most energetic and impactful performances of the fest.
Southern California legends Pennywise and The Offspring closed out the night. Watch for Punk In The Park’s 2025 dates and stops on their website. They certainly know how to put together a legendary lineup and throw a great festival!
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Arcade Alley Retro Pop Up Market at Barcade, Highland Park, December 11.
