Ariana Khoo
CelebMix recently had the opportunity to interview Modern Racket, an indie rock band, based in southern California.
Will each member introduce themselves, please?
Manny Huerta – Vocals/Guitarist
Brandon Biggers – Lead Guitarist
Mondo Flores – Bass
Christopher Lara – Drums
What music genre do you consider yourselves to be?
Indie/Alternative
Who, or what have influenced, or inspired each member of Modern Racket?
Manny – The Strokes, Never Shout Never, The Growlers, and Arctic Monkeys.
Christopher – King Diamond, Metallica, Sepultura, The Growlers, and Ghost.
Mondo – The Killers, The Growlers, Arctic Monkeys, and Gorillaz.
Brandon – Streetlight Manifesto, Sublime, Madness, Afi.
How was Modern Racket formed? What inspired you to make music together?
Modern Racket was formed in 2012. Manny started playing in a coffee shop by himself and taught Mondo a few bass lines then they started performing together. Later they found a guitarist and drummer who were later replaced by Brandon and Chris. Since then what inspired us to make music together is just the fun and love we share for music.
Where have you performed, and which is your favourite venue to perform at?
We have performed in many places ranging from San Diego to Los Angeles and even in Arizona. But one of our favourite venues to perform at is “The Mint” in Los Angeles, CA. Great sound, lovely staff, awesome green room, and nothing but good vibes.
Do you have any upcoming gigs?
We are currently working on a festival. Modern Hippie Fest will be October 20th in Hemet, CA. follow our social media for more info on the festival.
What are each members’ favourite songs right now?
Manny – ‘Lazy Boy’ by The Voidz
Chris – ‘If You Wanna’ by The Vaccines
Brandon – ‘Here No There’ by Rundown Kreeps
Mondo – ‘Freaks’ by Surf Curse
What is your favourite song you’ve written, and why?
Our Favourite song we have written is “Walk the Talk” because the diversity and up beat tempo but most importantly, the lyrics. Don’t just talk about it, take action and that’s what we do. We set goals and accomplish them not just talking about it.
How has your music evolved since Modern Racket began to make music together?
Our music evolves everyday, We don’t just stick to a genre or sound. We experiment and learn new things together.
What has been the biggest challenge as a band? Have you been able to overcome it, yet? If so, how?
The biggest challenge in the band would probably have to be time management. Although it may be difficult to get together for practices and agree on certain dates but we love what we do and will always find time to do what we love.
What’s a message you would want to give out to people who aspire to make great music like yours?
Love your music and the way you play it no matter what people say, if you’re passionate about it your sound will come to life. The way to listen to music is to hear the music first then find then where your inspiration comes.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Modern Hippie fest will take place October 20, 2018 in Hemet, CA. Our vision is to gather Music, Art, and People together for a fun evening. The world is full of negativity, all we want is for everyone to forget their worries, one night where we can all be in peace, focus on the common and not on differences. We will have 10 amazing band performing throughout the afternoon, live artists painting, local art vendors, food vendors, 21= bar, costume contest, and more.
