A band performing somber songs of love lost, and love gained, has been wowing local fans. The Divines are that band, and thanks to frontman Jose Antonio Martinez and his soulful vocal delivery, the musicians have carved out a serious fan base in a relatively short time. Singles “Swan Dive” and “Candy to My Ears” showcase a beautiful mix of ’60s soul and indie psychedelia that is sure to grow and evolve alongside the band—since half of the members are still in high school. Learn more at instagram.com/the.divines.
What was the first concert you attended?
ROAR at The Roxy in Los Angeles when I was 15.
What was the first album you owned?
The Dark Side of the Moon, Pink Floyd.
What bands are you listening to right now?
Caifanes, and Pink Floyd.
What artist, genre or musical trend does everyone love, but you don’t get?
I don’t personally get the hype over Taylor Swift.
What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?
I would’ve loved to see Pescado Rabioso live to experience the most influential musician in Latin rock history, Luis Alberto Spinetta.
What’s your favorite musical guilty pleasure?
I like some of the Peso Pluma songs. What the hell does he know about cameras?
What’s your favorite music venue?
Little Street Music Hall in Indio.
What’s the one song lyric you can’t get out of your head?
“Listen close and don’t be stoned / I’ll be here in the morning / ’Cause I’m just floating,” “Alison” by Slowdive.
What band or artist changed your life? How?
Jeff Buckley is my biggest influence when it comes to my songwriting.
You have one question to ask one musician. What’s the question, and who are you asking?
I would ask Syd Barrett what his favorite album of all time was.
What song would you like played at your funeral?
“Lover, You Should’ve Come Over,” Jeff Buckley.
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
Pet Sounds, The Beach Boys.
What song should everyone listen to right now?
“This Strange Effect,” The Kinks.
