You know it’s almost summer when a cartoon-crazy punk rock show comes to town that has a circus-like atmosphere and it’s accompanied by Lucha Libre Wrestling. Oh, and there’s tacos, lots and lots of tacos; and beer… every type of beer imaginable! Truthfully, nothing screams southern California like this perfect trilogy! It comes to us in the form of this weekend’s Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco & Music Festival at Doheny State Beach.
This show is epic in scale, that’s due to the larger-than-life bands playing. Punk rock has always been one of those genres that aren’t used to getting the credit it deserves. Not all musicians are the same, and some are standouts in other professions. Take for example Dexter Holland of the Offspring, Milo Auckerman of the Descendents and Greg Graffin of Bad Religion. These three front-man just happen to hold Ph.D.’s in scientific proficiencies, and they just happen to front three of this festival’s seminal bands.
Truth is, musicians are some of the most talented people on the planet, but we don’t always see them in that light. Dexter, Milo and Greg are definite myth-busters. Dexter’s a local, he went to Pacifica High where he was his class valedictorian. He went on to USC where he earned his M.S. in molecular biology. It’s been a very long road for him, but in 2017, he earned that Ph D. All that, and he’s a kick-ass punk rock icon. As for Milo, he grew up in Los Angeles, in the mecca for ‘70s and ‘80s punk rock. He grew up to the sounds of Black Flag, the Germs, and X. He eventually got into the music scene where he became a punk rock God.
Recently, Milo told us “It was a pretty amazing time just to be involved in that scene, and now to play on the same shows as some of these bands is exciting.” While not being an original member of the Descendents, he became a cornerstone of the band and the scene. After the release of their album, Milo Goes to College… he literally went to college. He attended UCSD where he earned his M.S. in biochemistry. Like Dexter, it took Milo some time, but he earned his PhD as well. Although they are accomplished in their respective fields, these days, the two concentrate most of their time on music. Both front-men are excited to play this festival in this picturesque venue.
As for the intrepid Greg Graffin, he’s the front-man for Bad Religion. This band has been doing it since 1979. They represent all that is good about punk rock from SoCal. They may be from the San Fernando Valley, but Bad Religion is a band that everyone in SoCal relates to. With their politically charged lyrics, Bad Religion has been a mouthpiece for those who feel their voice is not heard. For that, they’ve become a lightning rod for the punk rock community. Like Milo and Dexter, Greg too has a doctorate. After attending El Camino Real High, he got his B.A. from UCLA. He attained his PhD from Cornel in the History of Science. In traditional Graffin form, his dissertation was entitled the “Evolution and Religion: Questioning the Beliefs of the World’s Eminent Evolutionists.” Graffin also teaches when he’s not fronting his iconic band.
As in years past, Sabroso is produced by the nation’s premier music festival production company, Synergy Global Entertainment, Inc. [‘SGE”], and these cats are right here in OC. It’s no coincidence that this uber-fest is put on by SGE and their Grand Poohbah, John Reese; he’s literally one of the Titans of the industry. What exactly makes Reese and SGE such an industry juggernaut? Well, that’s simple; they’ve put on some of the biggest festivals anywhere. They’ve put on festivals like Musink, Back To The Beach, Big Adventure, Knotfest; and Ohana fest just to name a few. Joining SGE for this mega-event are co-organizers Brew Ha Ha Productions. It should also be noted that the festival will be powered by Gringo Bandito. Attendees are invited to sample all flavors of The Offspring lead singer, Dexter Holland’s, top-rated hot sauce (Gringo Bandito).
About this insane-crazy sideshow, it’s Lucha Libre wrestling. It’ll feature wrestling stars from all corners of the world. They’ll be there to take claim to the 2019 Sabroso championship ring. It’ll be a throwback and remind you of everything you remember about wrestling as a kid. It’ll take you back to the days of the Olympic Auditorium and the likes of Andre the Giant, John Tolis, Freddie Blassie and Mil Máscaras. If that’s not crazy enough for you, it’ll spotlight the Gringo Bandito Chronic Tacos Challenge.
The Challenge is another epic heart-stopping spectacle. This year, professional eaters from around the world will compete. The event features Japanese Superstar, Takeru Kobayashi. He’ll be back to defend his 2018 title; last year he devoured 154 tacos in 10 minutes. It was a sight to see, and not for the easy-queasy Kobayashi holds six Guinness World Records for competitive eating. Other competitors include Molly Schuyler, Naader Reda, Kevin Ross, Dan Kennedy, Dave Brunelli, Jesse Pynnönen and Jimmy Lin.
As for the bands, John Reese recently said: “We couldn’t ask for a more perfect lineup and a more perfect location inside of California State Parks…. it really doesn’t get better than this!” The lineup includes punk icons, The Offspring, Bad Religion, Black Flag, Descendents, Good Charlotte, Flogging Molly, the Suicide Machines, Lagwagon, Strung Out and D.I.
The performances fans should pay special attention to are the Bad Religion set as they are getting great feedback for the new tunes, including tons of radio play for “My Sanity.” Their album Age of Unreason is just killing it. Also, don’t miss Plague Vendor, their forthcoming album “By Night,” which is due out June 7th is already getting critical acclaim with their single, “New Comedown.” Then again, The Offspring has new music in the works, maybe, just maybe… we’ll get a sample at some of those tunes.
This is going to be another special day where you can take your family and friends to make memories you’ll talk about for years to come. This show just may represent the best in the California lifestyle.
Set times:
Saturday, April 6
8:15 p.m. – Flogging Molly
7:00 p.m. – Bad Religion
5:45 p.m. – Good Charlotte
*Lucha Libre Wrestling Title Match*
4:40 p.m. – Lagwagon
*Lucha Libre Wrestling Match 3*
3:40 p.m. – Strung Out
*Lucha Libre Wrestling Match 2*
2:50 p.m. – The Suicide Machines
*Lucha Libre Wrestling Match 1*
2:00 p.m. – D.I.
Sunday, April 7
7:50 p.m. – The Offspring
*Gringo Bandito Chronic Tacos Challenge*
6:00 p.m. – Descendents
4:55 p.m. – Black Flag
*Lucha Libre Wrestling Title Match*
4:00 p.m. – Face to Face
*Lucha Libre Wrestling Match 3*
3:05 p.m. – Plague Vendor
*Lucha Libre Wrestling Match 2*
2:15 p.m. – Red City Radio
*Lucha Libre Wrestling Match 1*
1:30 p.m. – Orange Blossom Special
Doors open at 12:00 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. For tickets and full festival info, click here.
