If you ask Wilmington, California’s Autofil what kind of band they are, don’t expect a straightforward answer. One minute, they’re talking about indie rock. The next they’re referencing The Strokes, Incubus, synth-pop, post-hardcore, emo, metal, and even Backstreet Boys. Somewhere in the middle, somebody gets called, “Dad,” somebody forgets a bandmate’s name, and the conversation completely derails. Learn more about this band, their story and their unique sound.

Autofil isn’t trying to fit neatly into one genre. The band describes its sound as a blend of indie rock, alternative, emo, and rock influences, pulling inspiration from a wide range of artists and experiences. But what makes Autofil stand out isn’t just their music. It’s the story behind it.

Watch the full interview below:

How Autofil Got Its Name

The name Autofil wasn’t the result of months of brainstorming or a grand artistic vision.

While throwing ideas into a group chat, one of the members, Jesus aka “Potatoes,” noticed the “autofill” suggestion appear on their phone and mistakenly thought someone had suggested it as a band name. Nobody had.

Yet somehow the name stuck.

Over time, the band realized the name actually fit their identity perfectly. Their music draws from influences, styles, and experiences, filling in the blanks wherever creativity takes them.

A Second Chance at Life

At the heart of Autofil’s story is vocalist Kevin’s insane journey.

Several years ago, Kevin survived a shooting during an attempted robbery outside a Los Angeles brewery. He was shot multiple times and spent months recovering from life-threatening injuries.

The experience changed everything. Before the incident, Kevin admits he had largely stopped pursuing many of the dreams he once held. Music wasn’t a priority. Performing wasn’t a priority. He describes himself as a shy person who often held himself back.

Surviving forced him to look at life differently. That mindset now shapes much of Autofil’s music.

Many of the band’s lyrics encourage listeners to appreciate the present moment, stop living on autopilot, and make time for the things that truly matter.

Music for Working Adults

One of the most relatable aspects of Autofil’s songwriting is how grounded it feels. These aren’t songs written from the perspective of rock stars.

They’re written by working adults trying to balance careers, relationships, responsibilities, and creativity.

Songs like “PTO” reflect frustrations with work-life balance and the feeling that life moves faster every year.

As Kevin explains, one of his biggest fears is waking up one day and realizing he spent so much time working that he forgot to actually enjoy life.

It’s a theme that resonates with almost anyone juggling adult responsibilities.

Four Different Musical Worlds

Part of Autofil’s unique sound comes from the wildly different musical backgrounds each member brings to the table.

Their influences include:

• The Strokes
• Incubus
• Iron Maiden
• Megadeth
• Asking Alexandria
• Escape the Fate
• Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
• Slipknot
• Synth-pop
• Alternative rock
• Emo
• Post-hardcore
• Disco

Rather than forcing those influences into one box, Autofil embraces the variety and allows each song to develop naturally.

The “Dad” of the Band

Every band needs someone who keeps things organized. For Autofil, that’s bassist Geo.

While the rest of the band focuses on riffs, melodies, and vibes, Geo brings structure, music theory knowledge, and enough organization to help transform loose ideas into completed songs.

The band affectionately refers to him as “Dad.” Based on the interview, the nickname seems well-earned.

Looking Ahead

Autofil’s goals are refreshingly realistic. In the short term, they’re working on merchandise and continuing to build their audience.

Long term, they’d love to play larger shows, release more music, create community-driven events, and eventually tour. However, more than anything, they simply want people to connect with the music.

Increasingly, that’s happening, and fans are showing up. People are asking for merch. Crowds are growing. So, for a band built on friendship, persistence, and a shared love of making music, that’s a pretty good place to be.

“Do It Scared”

When asked what advice they’d give aspiring musicians, Jesus’ answer was simple:

“Do it scared.”

It’s advice that perfectly summarizes Autofil’s story. Whether it’s starting a band later in life, stepping on stage despite nerves, balancing music with careers, or rebuilding your life after unimaginable adversity, Autofil proves that you don’t have to feel ready to begin. Sometimes you just have to start and see where it takes you.

Follow Autofil:

Instagram

Youtube

Spotify

About C² (Christy + Chris) 

Concert lovers turned creators. Highlighting creators, bands, stories, sounds, and places you need to know.

Disarray Magazine is an independent media platform established in 2009, spotlighting punk, hardcore, alternative culture, live music, food, nightlife, and the chaos in between. Created by journalist Christy Buena, C² exists to document the bands, people, and moments shaping the scene.

The screening of 40 Years of Fuckin’ Up at SF IndieFest at the sold out Roxie Theater on May 28, 2026, didn’t exactly go according to plan which, felt very on-brand for NOFX, but it turned out great either way.

Just hours before the post-screening Q&A at San Francisco’s Roxie Theater, the band’s flights into San Francisco were canceled, forcing organizers to scramble for a backup plan. Instead of appearing in person, NOFX’s Hefe, Fat Mike, and Gary Ousdahl would join the audience live via Zoom after the film.

If there was ever a moment that embodied the spirit of 40 Years of Fuckin’ Up, this was probably it.

Before the screening, longtime NOFX collaborator/keyboardist and Dance Hall Crashers vocalist Karina Denike stepped in to help introduce the film alongside us. Denike shared her history with the band and explained why the film was intentionally designed as a theatrical experience rather than another streaming release.

Watch the Q&A Recap below:

According to the band, the goal was never to create something people casually watched alone on a couch.

They wanted a room full fans, a shared experience, a community event and judging by the packed Roxie crowd, we got that. Mission accomplished.

The documentary delivered what many fans expected from NOFX: humor, dysfunction, DIY determination, and uncomfortable honesty, but the real surprise came after the credits rolled when the audience got the chance to watch Fat Mike, Hefe and manager Gary Ousdahl on the big screen via Zoom as Christy and Chris (C²) conducted the Q&A.

Despite the technical challenges of a remote Q&A, the conversation quickly found its footing.

One of the first topics centered around the film’s purpose. While director James Buddy Day previously told us that he wanted fans to feel like they were attending a NOFX show, the band revealed that their goals were slightly similar.

Fat Mike emphasized that one of the film’s biggest objectives was documenting how NOFX built its career independently. Beyond the outrageous stories and decades of chaos, the documentary serves as a blueprint for DIY success.

The conversation also explored the band’s decision to avoid traditional streaming platforms. Rather than licensing the film and moving on, NOFX wanted audiences to gather together in theaters, reconnect with old friends, and experience the film collectively.

“It’s about community,” Hefe explained.

Throughout the evening, that theme kept resurfacing. When asked what they had learned after four decades together, the discussion shifted toward friendship, growth, and how their relationships have evolved since retiring from full-time touring. While the film documents conflict and dysfunction, the band spoke openly about how much closer they have become in recent years.

The audience also got a rare look into the creative process behind NOFX songs, the band’s massive archive of footage and photographs, and what it was like working with director James Buddy Day.

One of the most memorable moments came when the conversation turned toward Day’s true-crime background and his previous work involving Charles Manson. The unexpected question appeared to catch the band off guard and led to one of the evening’s more entertaining exchanges.

Throughout the Q&A, the audience remained engaged, laughing, cheering, and an Australian fan asked his own questions around the music and guitar riffs.

Unfortunately, just as the discussion was gaining momentum, reality intervened. With the clock approaching 11 PM, theater staff informed the room that public transportation schedules and venue closing procedures meant the evening had to wrap up.

Overall, fans had a chance to connect with the band behind one of punk rock’s four decades of legacy. The night felt like a perfect extension of the documentary itself.

40 years of fuckin up: Flights were canceled. Technology misbehaved. Schedules got compressed. Nothing went according to plan and somehow it all worked anyway. That’s how it went down. We all rolled with the punches and the event was a success.

Photos below by Steven Buena:

Follow the SFindiefest IG account:

About C² (Christy + Chris) 

Concert lovers turned creators. Highlighting creators, bands, stories, sounds, and places you need to know.

Disarray Magazine is an independent media platform established in 2009, spotlighting punk, hardcore, alternative culture, live music, food, nightlife, and the chaos in between. Created by journalist Christy Buena, C² exists to document the bands, people, and moments shaping the scene.

For millions of punk fans, the Ramones are the blueprint and foundation of so many punk bands today. Stepping into the role once held by Dee Dee Ramone might sound impossible to most people, but for CJ Ramone, it started with something simple: showing up early.

During our C² spotlight, CJ opened up about auditioning for the world famous Ramones, joining one of the most influential punk bands of all time, navigating legacy pressure, and why being an introvert became one of his biggest strengths.

Watch our full interview below:

From the Marine Corps to the Ramones

When CJ first heard the Ramones were auditioning bass players after Dee Dee’s departure, he didn’t even believe he had a chance.

“I had no expectation to get the gig,” he admitted.

At the time, CJ was a finger-style bass player heavily influenced by Iron Maiden and classic punk, he rushed to buy picks beforehand because he knew showing up to a Ramones audition without one would be career suicide.

Then came the moment. Johnny Ramone asked him what song he knew. “I Wanna Be Sedated.” That was enough to start.

What followed was a surprisingly relaxed first audition, conversations about Yankees baseball, and eventually multiple callbacks. Out of 30–40 auditioning bass players, Johnny Ramone later admitted he knew almost immediately CJ was the right fit.

Why? Stability. After years of chaos surrounding Dee Dee, Johnny wanted someone disciplined, reliable, and mission-oriented, qualities CJ carried directly from military life into punk rock.

Not Replacing Dee Dee, Just Being CJ

One of the most interesting parts of CJ’s story is that he never tried to imitate Dee Dee Ramone.

Before joining the band, he once told a friend:
“I’ll never go to another Ramones show because it ain’t the Ramones without Dee Dee.”

Ironically, he would go on to perform every remaining Ramones show until the band retired.

Rather than attempting to become a copy of Dee Dee, CJ focused on bringing his own energy into the band.

“There’s nobody who could be Dee Dee,” he explained.

Instead, CJ approached the role like a job with massive responsibility. He learned multiple songs in just five weeks before his first tour and threw himself into preserving the fiery live energy that made him fall in love with the Ramones as a fan years earlier.

Carrying the Ramones Name

Even decades later, CJ says he still feels the weight of operating under the Ramones legacy.

“I’m always hyper-aware that I am operating under the Ramones flag,” he said.

That responsibility extends beyond music. Whether it’s interviews, live performances, or podcasting, CJ makes a conscious effort to protect the integrity of the band’s history, especially after years of misinformation and mythology surrounding the Ramones.

“People join those little pieces of information together with a whole lot of bullshit,” he laughed while discussing decades of rumors surrounding the band.

That desire to preserve real stories eventually inspired his podcast, CJ Says.

CJ Says: Punk Rock Deep Dives and Real Conversations

Unlike traditional interviews, CJ says podcasting allows conversations to become something deeper and more human.

The podcast features interviews with legends, but one of CJ’s favorite aspects is the “deep dive” series where he breaks down Ramones albums track-by-track, discussing songwriting, production, lyrics, timing, and hidden details fans may have overlooked for decades.

For someone who spent much of his childhood quietly obsessing over music, literature, astronomy, and encyclopedias, podcasting became a surprisingly perfect fit.

Advice for Introverts and Outsiders

One of the most unexpectedly heartfelt moments during the interview came when CJ reflected on growing up as an awkward, introverted kid. This conversation hit home for me as I was introverted, too.

Rather than trying to force himself to fit in, he eventually leaned fully into his own interests, whether it was music, literature, astronomy, or songwriting.

“When I stopped trying to fit in… it became easier to find people I connected with,” he shared.

That advice still shapes how he raised his own kids, encouraging them to pursue their passions deeply instead of trying to conform.

“You’re not the only one out there,” he said. “You just need to find your people.”

“Don’t Squander Your Talent”

When asked about the best advice he’s ever received, CJ shared a story about a high school teacher who recognized his writing talent long before music even became his career.

After assigning him an article for the school newspaper, the teacher told him something that stayed with him forever:

“You have a talent. Don’t squander it.”

It’s advice that still defines the way CJ approaches creativity today.

CJ Ramone continues to approach music and storytelling with the same humility, honesty, and passion that first got him through that Ramones audition decades ago and even after all these years, he still sounds like a fan first.

Follow CJ Ramone:

Instagram

YouTube

Spotify

Apple Podcast

Patreon

About C² (Christy + Chris) 

Concert lovers turned creators. Highlighting creators, bands, stories, sounds, and places you need to know.

Disarray Magazine is an independent media platform established in 2009, spotlighting punk, hardcore, alternative culture, live music, food, nightlife, and the chaos in between. Created by journalist Christy Buena, C² exists to document the bands, people, and moments shaping the scene.

During our conversation James Buddy Day, Director of the NOFX documentary 40 Years of Fuckin’ Up, he opened up about digging through decades of chaotic archival footage, navigating the unpredictable world of NOFX, his background in true crime documentaries, and why DIY creativity still matters more than ever.

Digging Through 40 Years of Punk History

One of the most eye-opening parts of 40 Years of Fuckin’ Up is the amount of archival footage packed into the film.

From grimy backstage clips to emotionally raw and vulnerable moments, the documentary feels less like a traditional music documentary and according to Day, there was a lot to sort through.

“So much archival footage,” I called out during the interview, reflecting on just how deep the rabbit hole went.

The process ultimately took around two years to complete, condensing four decades of punk rock history into a single documentary experience. Definitely, not exactly a small task.

More Than a Punk Documentary

What makes 40 Years of Fuckin’ Up stand out is that it doesn’t feel overly sanitized or manufactured. The film embraces the chaos, contradictions, humor, and darker moments that come with a band like NOFX.

Buddy Day discussed how his background in true crime storytelling influenced the structure and tone of the documentary, bringing a more layered and human perspective to the project instead of simply creating a highlight reel. That’s honestly what made this documentary hit hard.

That emotional honesty is exactly why the theatrical screenings have resonated so strongly with audiences.

We specifically pointed out how powerful it felt watching the documentary in a packed theater, hearing collective reactions from fans in real time, almost like attending a punk show itself. Buddy Day mentioned that the goal was to make fans feel like they just attended a NOFX concert and he accomplished that with this documentary.

Working With NOFX

Making a film about NOFX also comes with its own set of challenges. During the interview, we jokingly pointed out:
“You’re not gonna get what you need when you need it… but you’re gonna get it, right?” Chris asked.

Day laughed in agreement because if there’s one thing synonymous with NOFX, it’s unpredictability.

Beneath the chaos, the documentary still manages to capture the humanity behind the band members, something Day clearly values deeply in his filmmaking approach. Let’s be real, his style and talent is exemplified in the way he showcases his subjects in a raw and unapologetic way, humanizing every aspect, while invoking a variety of emotions from viewers.

DIY Ethics Still Matter

One of the strongest moments in the conversation came when Day gave advice to aspiring filmmakers and directors.

His philosophy? Just start creating.

The DIY spirit that fueled punk rock scenes for decades still applies directly to filmmaking today. Whether it’s music, documentaries, or storytelling in general, waiting for permission is often the fastest way to never create anything at all.

That mentality connects perfectly with NOFX’s legacy, a band that built an empire outside traditional industry systems.

The True Crime Connection

Outside of punk rock documentaries, Day also discussed his experiences working in the true crime world, including conversations surrounding Charles Manson.

The conversation shifted into the psychology behind infamous criminals, manipulation, prison systems, and the strange phenomenon of serial killer fandoms, topics Day approached with curiosity rather than sensationalism.

What became clear throughout the interview is that Day is drawn toward complicated human stories, whether they involve punk bands, cult leaders, or deeply flawed public figures.

That curiosity is part of what gives his work depth.

Capturing the Human Side of Punk

At its core, 40 Years of Fuckin’ Up succeeds because it doesn’t try to mythologize NOFX into untouchable rock stars.

Instead, it captures them as messy, funny, self-destructive, creative, complicated human beings.

And James Buddy Day seems perfectly comfortable sitting inside that chaos long enough to find the truth buried underneath it.

Which honestly feels very punk rock in itself.

Follow James Buddy Day:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesbuddyday/

Youtube: Unmarked Podcast

Podcast: https://tr.ee/TL2muWsd4p

Watch the documentary: https://www.40yearsoffuckinup.com/

If you enjoyed this post, check out our NOFX documentary premiere recap:

About C² (Christy + Chris) 

Concert lovers turned creators. Highlighting creators, bands, stories, sounds, and places you need to know.

Disarray Magazine is an independent media platform established in 2009, spotlighting punk, hardcore, alternative culture, live music, food, nightlife, and the chaos in between. Created by journalist Christy Buena, C² exists to document the bands, people, and moments shaping the scene.

Some bands are formed through Craigslist ads, random garage jams, or mutual friends at local shows. Miswired was born through something much deeper: recovery, connection, and pure chaotic chemistry.

The Southern California punk trio made up of Mackie (guitar/vocals), Charlotte (bass/vocals), and Gustov (drums), may only be a little over a year into their journey, but they already carry the energy of a band that has lived through something real. 

Even their name came from a deeply personal place.

“I was in therapy,” Mackie explained. “And my therapist said, ‘You’re just miswired.’” 

That phrase stuck and eventually became the identity of a band unafraid to talk openly about addiction, recovery, mental health, and the messy realities of being human.

Watch the full interview below:

Built Through Sobriety and Friendship

Miswired’s story feels less like a traditional band origin and more like the universe aggressively shoving people together until something clicked.

Mackie and Charlotte were essentially introduced by Charlotte’s parents, with Charlotte’s stepmom, who also happened to be Mackie’s sobriety sponsor, encouraging them to meet. 

There was just one problem: Charlotte didn’t even play bass yet.

“She was like, ‘You’re not doing guitar. You’re doing bass and we’re starting a band,’” Charlotte laughed about Mackie’s delegation. 

Then came Gustov, who entered the picture in the most mysteriously punk way possible: emerging in a long coat at a sobriety meeting asking, “You guys looking for a drummer?” 

And somehow, it worked. Really well.

Loud, Emotional, and Slightly Unhinged

Musically, Miswired pulls from everywhere: Hole, Green Day, The Smiths, Jawbreaker, Bad Religion, Nirvana, The Ramones, Queens of the Stone Age, and classic punk influences from across the ‘70s, ‘90s, and early 2000s. 

The result is a gritty, emotional blend of punk, grunge, and 90s emo energy that feels equally cathartic and chaotic.

And then there’s “Bob Dylan.”

Yes. That “Bob Dylan.”

The song, whose chorus includes the absolutely unhinged line, “Bob Dylan, get on your knees, bitch” was inspired by one of Mackie’s autistic friends repeatedly demanding Bob Dylan songs during a jam session. 

The first time they played it live at a Huntington Beach dog surf event filled with older attendees and apparent Bob Dylan fans, was memorable and embarrassingly hilarious.

“The crowd was just staring at us like, what the fuck?” Gustov remembered. 

Honestly? Punk rock perfection.

Music as Survival

Underneath the humor and chaos, though, Miswired’s songwriting comes from very real experiences.

Songs like “Suddenly?” and “Figment of My Mind” explore relapse, addiction, psychosis, emotional manipulation, and mental health struggles. 

Mackie spoke openly during the interview about her addiction journey, revealing she began using substances at 13 years old and struggled for nearly nine years before finally getting sober. 

“There were so many times I wanted to stop, but I just couldn’t,” she shared. 

Now sober for over two years, she credits recovery meetings, treatment, and the people around her, including her bandmates, for helping save her life. 

Gustov, who recently celebrated 10 years sober, reflected on how recovery reshaped his life both personally and creatively. 

“Pain’s inevitable and suffering’s a choice,” he said, recalling one of the most impactful pieces of advice he’s ever received. 

That honesty bleeds directly into the band’s music. Nothing about Miswired feels manufactured.

A Band Moving Fast

Despite only being together for a short time, Miswired is already stacking shows, building a following, and developing the kind of chemistry bands spend years chasing.

At the time of the interview, the band had 12 shows lined up between May and August alone. 

Their goals? Simple.

“Be famous,” Charlotte joked immediately before the rest of the band burst into laughter. 

But beneath the joke is real ambition. Warped Tour. Bigger stages. Better recordings. More songs. More connection.

And honestly? You can feel that momentum already building around them.

More Than Just a Punk Band

What makes Miswired stand out isn’t just the music.

It’s the fact that they’re willing to say the uncomfortable parts out loud.

The addiction.
The relapse.
The therapy.
The fear.
The healing.
The weirdness.
The dysfunction.
The friendships that somehow keep everything together.

Charlotte describes themselves as a “shit show that gets shit done.” 

That might actually be the most accurate description possible.

Somehow, through all the chaos, Miswired is creating something real enough that people are starting to see themselves in it too. That’s the magic part and it’s only getting louder.

Follow Miswired:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miswiredband/

Spotify: https://tr.ee/zTi6B5yBUM

About C² (Christy + Chris) 

Concert lovers turned creators. Highlighting creators, bands, stories, sounds, and places you need to know.

Disarray Magazine is an independent media platform established in 2009, spotlighting punk, hardcore, alternative culture, live music, food, nightlife, and the chaos in between. Created by journalist Christy Buena, C² exists to document the bands, people, and moments shaping the scene before the rest of the world catches up.

The bands may be on stage, but someone has to preserve the chaos.

If you’ve been to enough Southern California punk and hardcore shows lately, chances are you’ve seen Petey weaving through the crowd with a camera in hand, somehow everywhere at once. One second he’s crouched near the barricade capturing a guitarist mid-jump. The next, he’s in the middle of the pit filming crowd surfers like he’s part of the performance itself.

And honestly? He kind of is.

For our latest C² creator spotlight presented by Disarray Magazine, we sat down with Petey to talk about underground music culture, filming live shows, directing music videos, creative risks, and how living with epilepsy shaped his perspective as an artist and creator.

Watch the full interview below:

More Than Just “Pressing Record”

A lot of people think filming concerts is easy. Show up. Hit record. Post clips.

Petey made it clear that great live footage comes from understanding the energy of the band before the first song even starts.

“I study the bands before I film them,” he explained during the interview.

That means listening to their music ahead of time, understanding the pacing of songs, anticipating stage movement, and mentally storyboarding shots before entering the venue.

For Petey, filming isn’t passive documentation. It’s immersion.

He wants viewers to feel like they were there sweating inside the venue, shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers screaming lyrics back at the stage.

And that mentality shows in his footage.

His videos don’t feel sterile or overly polished. They feel alive.

Capturing Community, Not Just Concerts

One of the most interesting things Petey touched on was how the crowd becomes part of the performance itself.

In punk and hardcore especially, there’s no real separation between artist and audience. The energy feeds off each other. Stage dives, pile-ons, circle pits, singalongs: it’s collective release.

Petey understands that instinctively as a filmmaker.

That’s why his camera doesn’t stay locked on just the vocalist or guitarist. He captures the room breathing as one organism.

The fans.
The sweat.
The collisions.
The tiny moments most people miss while they’re living inside them.

That’s the difference between filming a show and documenting a scene.

Creating Through Epilepsy

During our conversation, Petey also opened up about living with epilepsy, something that can make high-energy environments, flashing lights, and physically demanding nights significantly harder to navigate.

But instead of pulling him away from creativity, it seems to have sharpened his appreciation for it.

There’s a certain urgency in the way he talks about creating. About making things now. About documenting moments before they disappear.

That perspective gives his work emotional weight.

You can tell he doesn’t take experiences, opportunities, or connections for granted.

And honestly, that mindset mirrors the underground music scene itself: temporary, chaotic, loud, emotional, and deeply human.

Eyes Everywhere

At one point in the interview, we joked:
“You got eyes everywhere. I got eyes everywhere.”

Honestly? Accurate.

His ability to move through venues while capturing tiny details and explosive moments at the same time feels almost supernatural sometimes. Whether he’s filming local bands, helping co-direct music videos, or documenting the growing DIY scene around him, Petey has become part of the ecosystem itself.

Not just an observer.
A contributor.

And in a scene where authenticity matters more than perfection, that means everything.

Final Thoughts

People often celebrate the bands front and center, but creators behind the lens help shape how scenes are remembered.

Without photographers, videographers, zine creators, promoters, and media outlets, entire eras disappear.

Petey isn’t just filming shows.

He’s preserving memories for bands and fans who may someday look back and realize they were part of something bigger than they understood at the time.

And honestly?
That’s punk as hell.

Follow Petey’s work and stay tuned for the full C² creator spotlight interview on Disarray Magazine’s platforms.

Make sure to follow Petey!

Youtube: @hangingoutwithpetey5494

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hangingoutwithpetey

About C² (Christy + Chris) 

Concert lovers turned creators. Highlighting creators, bands, stories, sounds, and places you need to know.

Disarray Magazine is an independent media platform established in 2009, spotlighting punk, hardcore, alternative culture, live music, food, nightlife, and the chaos in between. Created by journalist Christy Buena, C² exists to document the bands, people, and moments shaping the scene before the rest of the world catches up.

We sat down with the band members of 40oz Folklore at Cideshow Rehearsal Studios for a new installment of C² Band Spotlight, where the group opened up about rebuilding the band across multiple cities and eras, balancing music with family life, and crafting a heavier, faster version of 40oz Folklore for a new generation.

Watch the full interview below:

A Punk Band Reborn Across Three Cities

While the current lineup has been together for about a year, 40oz Folklore’s roots stretch back much further. Guitarist and founding member Erikka explained that the band originally formed in Chattanooga, Tennessee around 2008 before evolving through different incarnations in Las Vegas and eventually Los Angeles.

Now joined by guitarist Confessor Barnett, drummer Flynn, guitarist Clinton, and bassist Renzo, the latest version of the band feels like the strongest.

“This is the longest-running L.A. version so far,” the band joked during the interview.

Inspired by Punk Legends But Pushing Forward

40oz Folklore pull heavily from classic hardcore punk and crossover thrash influences. The band cited legendary acts including:

• Chaos UK
• Poison Idea
• Dead Kennedys
• Suicidal Tendencies
• The Accüsed

While the band respects old-school punk foundations, they’re also evolving into something heavier and more aggressive.

“A lot of the newer stuff is going more toward faster aggressive stuff… more Suicidal crossover,” drummer Flynn explained.

The band repeatedly described their sound with words like:

• “Fast.”
• “Aggressive.”
• “Loud.”

Honestly? Accurate.

Balancing Punk Rock With Real Life

One of the strongest parts of the conversation was hearing how the members balance music with adulthood, jobs, relationships, and parenting.

Flynn revealed he stepped away from music for nearly a decade after getting married and becoming a father before eventually returning to the scene.

“Very supportive partner,” he said while talking about his wife and what makes balancing band life possible. “She’s my roadie. She’s my manager.”

Meanwhile, Confessor shared that he’s a full-time single dad of two while also playing in six bands. Dude is a machine.

The band emphasized that coordinating practices, work schedules, shows, and life responsibilities is one of the hardest parts of being in a band.

“It’s like having five girlfriends,” Flynn joked.

The Upcoming EP and a More Aggressive Direction

40oz Folklore are currently working on a new EP that blends older songs with newly written material. The upcoming release will feature six new tracks alongside reworked older songs from previous eras of the band.

One song the group repeatedly highlighted was “State of Confusion,” which Flynn admitted initially terrified him because of how fast and demanding the drum parts became after jokingly playing it more aggressively during rehearsal.

The band says the current material pushes further into heavier crossover territory while still keeping the roots of classic hardcore punk intact.

Growing Beyond Los Angeles

While the band frequently plays local venues including Eagle’s Nest Saloon, they’re now focused on expanding beyond L.A. and reaching new crowds throughout the West Coast.

Upcoming goals include:

• Las Vegas shows
• Portland
• Arizona
• Texas
• Potential overseas opportunities in Japan

The band specifically shouted out an upcoming Las Vegas appearance at the iconic Double Down Saloon on June 6.

Advice for Other Bands: Just Start

When asked what advice they’d give newer bands, the group kept it simple:
“Just do it.”

They stressed the importance of:

• Networking
• Practicing independently
• Supporting local scenes
• Staying humble
• Playing as many shows as possible
• Enjoying the process

“Don’t pigeonhole yourself into one location,” the band explained while encouraging musicians to build relationships across scenes and cities.

Final Thoughts

40oz Folklore feel like the kind of band that thrives on pure punk energy: community, chaos, humor, heavy riffs, and DIY persistence.

They’re not trying to manufacture an image. They’re just showing up, putting in the work, and keeping punk loud while balancing real life outside the stage lights.

And honestly? That authenticity hits harder than any algorithm ever could.

For fans of crossover punk, hardcore, and aggressive old-school energy with a modern bite, 40oz Folklore are absolutely worth keeping an eye on.

Follow the band: Instagram and Bandcamp

Photos by Chris below:

About C² (Christy + Chris) 

Concert lovers turned creators. Highlighting bands, stories, sounds, and places you need to know.

Disarray Magazine is an independent media platform established in 2009, spotlighting punk, hardcore, alternative culture, live music, food, nightlife, and the chaos in between. Created by journalist Christy Buena, C² exists to document the bands, people, and moments shaping the scene before the rest of the world catches up.

If punk rock had a physical home, it would be this. Loud, chaotic, nostalgic, and somehow still evolving, the Punk Rock Museum in Las Vegas will suck you in and yes, we stayed for four hours and still weren’t ready to leave.

What Is the Punk Rock Museum?

Opened on April 1, 2023, the Punk Rock Museum was founded by Fat Mike of NOFX alongside Warped Tour producer Lisa Brownlee. What started as an idea for a punk shop evolved into something way bigger, a full museum dedicated to over 45 years of punk history, culture, and chaos.

The mission is simple, keep it inclusive, raw, and real, not some polished Hall of Fame. This place is built by punks, for punks.

Highlights, Why You’ll Lose Track of Time

Let’s talk about the insanity inside, because this is where it hits.

The Memorabilia, Punk History on Steroids

You’re walking through decades of rebellion:

• Old shoes, jackets, and actual stage worn punk clothing
• Handwritten lyrics on paper, the real ones
• Vintage flyers, posters, and zines
• Backstage passes and old magazines
• Snail mail letters from Fat Wreck Chords
• International punk artifacts from the UK, Asia, and beyond
• A literal door from 924 Gilman Street, iconic Bay Area punk history

This isn’t curated like a quiet museum. It feels like you’re digging through someone’s chaotic, legendary garage.

Warped Tour Nostalgia Overload

If you grew up sweating through Vans Warped Tour summers, prepare to spiral. There’s a huge collection dedicated to that era, capturing the energy that basically raised an entire generation of punk fans. Tripped me out seeing flyers and line-ups from when I was 16, attending the Warped Tour to see my favorite Drive-Thru band, (ahem HomeGrown).

The NOFX Exhibit

A full section dedicated to NOFX hits different. It’s personal, messy, funny, and emotional, exactly how punk should be.

The Jam Room, Yes You Can Actually Play

This is where things go from museum to holy shit.

• Pick up a guitar
• Plug it in
• Play

No velvet ropes, no do not touch signs, just pure punk energy.

Tattoo Parlor and Bar, Obviously

Because of course:

• There’s a tattoo shop inside
• A full bar with that chaotic punk dive vibe
• Live shows and events happening regularly

It feels less like a museum and more like a living, breathing punk ecosystem. We spoke with Sean, who said tats start at $180.

Upstairs Photo Gallery

The upstairs area is stacked with photography that captures the rawest moments of punk history, sweaty shows, crowd dives, chaos, and community.

Ticket Pricing, Worth It? Yes.

Here’s what you’re looking at:

• General Admission, about $39
• Guided Tours, about $100
• Kids 4 to 12, about $19.50
• Locals get discounts
• Birthday, free entry

Pro tip, don’t rush it. Give yourself at least 2 to 4 hours. We stayed four and still didn’t see everything.

Visit: https://www.thepunkrockmuseum.com/

Guided Tours by Punk Legends, Main Character Energy

This is where it levels up. While there, we saw Karina Denike of Dance Hall Crashers and NOFX, giving a tour, walking fans through various exhibits and giving fans a deeper look.

Guided tours aren’t some scripted museum walkthrough. They’re led by actual punk icons, musicians and insiders who lived it.

• Expect unfiltered stories
• Behind the scenes chaos
• Personal connections to the artifacts

It’s basically getting a history lesson from someone who helped create it.

Final Verdict, Is It Worth It?

Short answer, absolutely.

Long answer, if you care about music history, subculture, rebellion, or just want something in Vegas that isn’t bottle service and blackjack, this is it.

The Punk Rock Museum doesn’t just show you punk. It throws you into it. You will be taken down memory lane, and you will feel nostalgic. After looking through all the artifacts like an anthropologist, I thought to myself, “Damn, we’re old.”

And the fact that we spent four hours there and still could’ve stayed longer, that tells you everything.

TLDR

• Opened in 2023 by Fat Mike
• Massive collection of real punk artifacts
• Jam room where you can actually play instruments
• Tattoo shop, bar, and live events
• Guided tours by punk legends
• Plan for 3 to 4 hours minimum

Disarray Take

This isn’t just a museum.
It’s a time machine with a soundtrack.

And yeah, we’d go back. Check them out: https://www.thepunkrockmuseum.com/

Look at our gallery below:

About the Author

Christy started Disarray because she missed writing on her own terms, and she’s been spilling stories ever since. With a B.A. in Journalism from California State University, Northridge (CSUN), she covers everything from conventions and concerts to fashion, food, and nightlife.

 Questions, collabs, or interview requests? Email Christy@disarraymagazine.com
 Follow the chaos on Instagram and TikTok
 For travel stories, visit ChristyWanders.com

C² (Christy + Chris) 
Concert lovers turned creators.
Highlighting bands, stories, sounds, and places you need to know.

Spotlights by Disarray.

If you think you know what punk sounds like… This Is A Revolver is here to mess that up in the best way possible.

We caught up with the LA-based band at The Ledge for their first-ever interview (yes, we love a debut moment), and what we got wasn’t just another “we’re a punk band” answer. It was chaos, honesty, and a whole lot of personality.

Spoiler: they don’t fit in a box and they’re not trying to.

Watch the Full Interview

We got the full convo with This Is A Revolver stories, chaos, and all. It felt like a podcast.

Who Is This Is A Revolver?

This Is A Revolver is a Los Angeles-based punk/alt-rock/grunge band made up of:

• Nikki (vocals)
• Rudy (guitar)
• Matt (bass)
• Taylor (drums)

And from the jump, they made one thing clear: they’re not here to be labeled; they’re here to experiment.

Their sound blends a gritty punk backbone with melodic, almost unexpected vocals something even they admit throws people off (and honestly… that’s the point).

“There’s this sonic chaos, and then Nikki comes in and glues it together with something clean and bigger than that.”

What Should You Listen To First?

If you’re new, start here:

• “Gallows Tree” is raw, emotional, and lets Nikki’s vocals shine
• “The Shadow” is dynamic, layered, and chaotic in all the right ways

Their music hits that sweet spot between gritty LA punk energy and something way more layered and melodic than you’d expect.

Basically: it’s not background music. It grabs you.

How The Band Formed (aka Chaos Meets Craigslist)

The band started in 2022 when Rudy and Nikki linked up over riffs he’d been sitting on since COVID.

Within weeks, they were writing together.
Then came the rest of the band:

• Matt joined through a mutual connection (his wife went to school with Rudy and Nikki)
• Taylor (aka “the Craigslist guy”) literally emailed them saying he wanted in

And somehow… it worked.

“We’d rather have a worse musician who’s a good vibe than a better musician who’s a bad vibe.”

Honestly? That philosophy explains everything.

Their Influences Are All Over the Place (And That’s Why It Works)

Ask them about influences and you’ll get completely different answers:

• Punk legends like Dead Kennedys and AFI
• Grunge staples like Pearl Jam
• Classic rock (The Who, Cheap Trick)
• Even video game soundtracks (Red Dead Redemption energy is real)

Oh and Nikki?
She didn’t even like punk growing up.

Which is exactly why their sound feels so unpredictable.

The Name “This Is A Revolver” Is… Wild

The name didn’t come from branding strategy or a brainstorming session.

It came from a dream.

A literal nightmare involving a man, a revolver, and a hospital bed.

“He held a revolver to my head and said, ‘This is a revolver.’ And I woke up.”

Yeah.

But over time, the meaning evolved into something deeper; cycles, repetition, chaos, life looping back on itself.

It’s giving existential punk.

What They Want From Their Shows

No overthinking. No ego.

They just want one thing:

“If we can make people move and have a good time, that’s it.”

And honestly? That energy hits.

Their live set leans into raw, high-energy tracks like:

• “Roswell”
• “Arrivederci”
• New unreleased songs they’re already hyped about

The Reality of Being a Band in 2026

They didn’t sugarcoat it.

Being a band today isn’t just about music, it’s about content.

“If you’re not feeling embarrassed, you’re doing it wrong.”

“You have to debase yourself on social media… it’s the reality.”

It’s brutal. It’s honest. And it’s exactly what most bands won’t say out loud.

What’s Next for This Is A Revolver?

They’ve already built a global audience (Germany, UK, Canada, Mexico… everywhere but LA, apparently).

Next goals:

• Touring
• Playing festivals
• Opening for bands they actually respect
• Seeing crowds sing their lyrics back to them

But beyond that?

“If we can just keep doing something creative that makes us happy, that’s a win.”

In a Nutshell

This Is A Revolver isn’t trying to be your typical punk band.

They’re messy. They’re honest. They’re unpredictable.
And that’s exactly why they work.

If you’re into music that doesn’t sound like everything else on your feed…
keep an eye on them.

About the Interviewers

C² (Christy + Chris) 
Concert lovers turned creators
Highlighting bands, stories & sounds you need to know

Band Spotlight by Disarray

Who Are The Hazards?

Emerging from the raw energy of Inglewood and East Los Angeles, The Hazards are part of a new wave of LA punk bands bringing grit, chaos, and authenticity back into the spotlight.

Made up of JackL (vocals/guitar), Carlos (drums), Dro (lead guitar), and Jeff (bass), the band blends classic punk aggression with alternative and hard rock influences, creating a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Their rise is organic, fueled by local shows, backyard gigs, and a growing buzz across social media.

Watch the Full Interview

From Inglewood to East LA: The Hazards’ Story

The Hazards’ foundation is rooted in long-standing connections. JackL and Jeff first crossed paths in high school.

For frontman JackL, the journey runs deeper.

After high school, he experienced homelessness, sleeping in parks while navigating an uncertain future. Music became more than just an outlet, it became survival.

That lived experience now bleeds into the band’s sound: raw, urgent, and unapologetically real.

Defining the Sound of The Hazards

Trying to box The Hazards into one genre doesn’t quite work and that’s exactly the point.

Their sound pulls from a wide range of influences, including The Adolescents, Misfits, Nirvana, Rage Against the Machine, and Queens of the Stone Age.

The result?

A high-energy fusion of punk, grunge, and alternative rock—driven by distortion-heavy riffs, aggressive drums, and emotionally charged vocals.

“Graves” Music Video: A Breakout Moment

The Hazards recently dropped their music video for “Graves” on March 6, 2026, a release that’s already gaining traction among fans.

The video captures the band’s raw intensity while visually reinforcing the darker emotional themes behind the track.

It’s a defining moment that signals the band’s transition from local buzz to serious contender in the LA punk scene.

Backyard Shows Are Back

One of the most exciting shifts in the scene? The return of backyard shows.

For The Hazards, these DIY performances aren’t just nostalgic, they’re essential.

Backyard gigs strip everything down to what matters:

• The music
• The crowd
• The energy

No barriers. No filters. Just chaos and connection.

It’s in these spaces where The Hazards thrive and where their fanbase continues to grow.

Inside Their Recording Process

When it comes to recording, The Hazards keep things fluid.

Working with their mixing engineer at BowlerAudio, the band leans into a balance of structure and spontaneity, often building songs from riffs and evolving them organically in the studio.

That looseness translates directly into their sound, giving their tracks a live, unfiltered feel.

Momentum & What’s Next

With growing visibility online and an increasing presence in the local scene, The Hazards are hitting a turning point.

From packed backyard shows to new releases gaining traction, the band is building real momentum in 2026.

Their goals are clear:

• Expand their reach
• Collaborate with other artists
• Continue pushing the boundaries of their sound

Advice for New Bands

Having spent years building their foundation, The Hazards emphasize one thing above all:

Stay consistent. Stay real.

For new musicians coming up in LA, their message is simple: keep creating, keep performing, and don’t stop.

Where to See The Hazards

The Hazards are actively performing across Los Angeles, bringing their high-energy sets to both DIY spaces and established venues.

Follow them on social media for upcoming shows, releases, and announcements.

Why The Hazards Matter

At a time when music can feel overly polished, The Hazards are a reminder of what punk was always meant to be:

Unfiltered. Loud. Honest.

Straight out of Inglewood and East LA, they’re not just making noise, they’re building a movement.

About the Interviewers

C² (Christy + Chris)
Concert lovers turned creators
Highlighting bands, stories & sounds you need to know

Band Spotlight by Disarray