Coachella Valley punk-rockers Selexa emerged onto the local scene in 2020 with progressive lyrics and emphatic rock energy—then basically vanished. The band popped up with the occasional single release and show, but didn’t have much of a presence until recently. Even though the members are living in L.A. now, the band has made it a point to perform in the desert and showcase a new era of their heavy-hitting sound. Selexa released “Indica Limelight,” their first new single in four years, on May 1. Expect more grunge goodness and music with a message to come from these riffed-out rockers. Learn more at www.instagram.com/selexatheband.
What was the first concert you attended?
My mom was the one who gave me my love for live music, so I’ve been going to local shows for as long as I can remember. The first concert I can remember is being barricade (at the front) at a Rancid show as a 7-year-old.
What was the first album you owned?
Stadium Arcadium by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. I was a high-schooler and super pretentious about music. I’ve since cooled on the Chili Peppers, but they were the first ones who really taught me about stage presence and personality in performing.
What bands are you listening to right now?
I’m trying my best to listen to everything, but I always seem to be behind. Baby Keem’s Ca$ino and Underscores’ U have been my albums of the year so far.
What artist, genre or musical trend does everyone love, but you don’t get?
I’m generally out on country music. It doesn’t speak to me, and it never has. Plus, the new wave of pop country feels so soulless and capital-driven; it doesn’t feel like art.
What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?
Seeing Turnstile this past October was a huge check off my bucket list. Still on that list is Idles. I need them to come back to the States again!
What’s your favorite musical guilty pleasure?
I am the poster child of, “It’s not a phase, Mom.” Emo music like My Chemical Romance and Fall Out Boy is cringey, sure, but to be cringe is to be free, and I stand by that. Powerful songwriting with amazing performances, no matter how you look at it.
What’s your favorite music venue?
My favorite local venues have been the Oasis on Miles and Coachella Valley Brewing Co.—small venues with good music and better vibes.
What’s the one song lyric you can’t get out of your head?
“Freight train coming down the track and it almost gave me a heart attack,” Joyce Manor, “I Know Where Mark Chen Lives.”
What band or artist changed your life? How?
I found this band called Heart to Gold when I was in high school. At the time, they were a super-small three-piece Midwest emo band that played loud catchy riffs. It ultimately inspired me to join my own three-piece and try to emulate their success.
You have one question to ask one musician. What’s the question, and who are you asking?
I’m asking Mike Kerr from Royal Blood how he gets his tone so far, and if he can spot me some gear.
What song would you like played at your funeral?
“True Love Will Find You in the End” by Daniel Johnston.
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
Hot Fuss by The Killers. Most people know this album for “Mr. Brightside,” but literally every song on this album is a banger.
What song should everyone listen to right now?
Not to be corny and do self-promotion, but my band Selexa is releasing a new song called “Indica Limelight” on May 1, wherever you listen to music.
