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Live Music

Tom Morello Unites B Real, Pussy Riot, K. Flay and More to “Defend L.A.” at The Echoplex

Morello brought out all the artists at the end to sing along together to "This Land is Your Land," encouraging everyone to continue to defend L.A. and not back down in the face of state repression.

June 20, 2025

Punk Icon Shawn Stern On the World’s Best Underground Scene (and Surviving Slam Dancing in the Desert)

We caught up with Shawn Stern on the day after Youth Brigade played first show in five years with all three brothers in the lineup again. To get his insights on the how L.A. became—and continues to be—the epicenter of underground punk rock, and practical tips for surviving the chaos and camaraderie of Punk Rock Bowling this weekend in downtown Las Vegas.

May 20, 2025

A Street Punk Band From Whittier Played Inside a McDonald’s in South Central L.A.

"Even the employees came out to record the show on their phones," said the frontman for Knuckleadz, the Whittier street punk band that performed inside McDonald's on Slauson and Central Avenues. More than 100 fans showed up and and there were no reports of any incidents.

January 27, 2025

Here’s The First Look at Punk Rock Bowling’s 2025 Lineup, With Cock Sparrer, Social Distortion, Peter Hook, and More

"This is Punk Rock Bowling’s 25th anniversary, so it’s extra special," Shawn Stern, Presidente of the Punk Rock Bowling Festival, tells L.A. TACO.

November 22, 2024

Tens of Thousands of Fans Showed up to San Pedro for NOFX’s Final Show Ever

After 40 years, NOFX ended their storied career next to the San Pedro water, with a sea of fans and supporting punk bands watching the band go off into the sunset.

October 7, 2024

Johnny Marr’s Show In DTLA Reminds Us That Not all Manchester Music Is Miserable

The iconic ex-guitarist, co-founder, and co-songwriter of The Smiths (1982-1987) played a sold-out show at the Orpheum Theatre. And yes, the genius behind "This Charming Man" reminded all of us that only he can truly play that song the way it's meant to be heard, no vocals needed.  

September 30, 2024

These ‘Bring Your Own Meat’ Grilling Parties From L.A.’s DIY Punk Community Are Raising Thousands of Dollars for Palestine

"Punks for Palestine" has raised more than $15,000 for Palestinian families so far. The benefit's organizer, Kristine Nevrose, who also has her own punk band, hopes to continue throwing these communal grilling-and-punk-based benefit shows. "I have the privilege of cooking, and food is the best thing to give." The next show is this Sunday.

August 22, 2024

Open Thread: What’s The Best Live Show You’ve Ever Seen In L.A.?

Was your life changed by a Circle Jerks show at Blackie's? Chaka Khan dropping in on Snoop and Too Short at the Palladium? Dudamel with a special guest at Disney Hall? Chime in!

‘Tacos With a Side of Dope Music:’ A Preview of the DJs Gracing The Stage at TACO MADNESS

Attendees of this weekend have much to look forward to—from behind the turntables to behind the grills, TACO MADNESS promises to bring something for everybody, and the L.A. TACO looks forward to bringing all of the energy, excitement, and culture to La Plaza De Culturas y Artes this Saturday.

This Godfather of California’s Punk Scene Founded Goldenvoice Before Going to Prison For Smuggling Weed

In the early 80s, Gary Tovar named Goldenvoice after he smoked a strain of Thai weed. He threw the biggest punk shows in the country, filling up spaces like The Grand Olympic Auditorium with 5,000 punks. Decades later, Tovar still plays a part by consulting and helping to formulate some of the biggest punk shows today.

June 6, 2024