San Luis Obispo Embraces Rock and Metal: A Cultural Shift in Music and Fashion

Krooks performing at The Aviary on December 3rd, 2024 

 Picture taken by Christina Ysabel: Sophomore at Cal Poly (Photo/Christina Ysabel) 

San Luis Obispo, known for its laid-back atmosphere, scenic views, and environment for wine enthusiasts, is experiencing an unexpected culture shift: metal and rock music is making a major comeback. 

In a town primarily dominated by folk and pop music, metal/rock is making itself known, with local bands, venues, and fans giving the genre interest and energy. 

The Role of Local Bands: Cultivating a New Sound

Historically, San Luis Obispo’s music scene has been quite sparse. In the early 2000s, the genre was mostly downgraded to underground venues or open mic concepts. However, over the past two years, that has started to change. With spacious, exciting, and energized venues like The Fremont Theater, The Siren, and The Aviary, they have recently booked punk and rock acts.

Channel Frequencies, a hiring and booking company for artists, has allowed small bands to showcase their work and given opportunities to young and aspiring artists. 

“A few years ago, we didn’t even get a lot of traction from our metal shows,” says Paloma Brunson, an employee at Channel Frequencies. “Now we’re seeing lines out the door every Friday and Saturday night.” 

Bands like Lizards Mouth, Krooks, and Framers play a pivotal role in bringing the genre to a wider audience as they blend indie with rock and metal culture elements. 

Krooks, a rock and metal band formed by four college students, is one of the area’s rising stars. Their vibrance and unique sense of music have earned them an energetic fan base in SLO. Although they’ve performed across California, their most cherished memories have evolved in San Luis Obispo. 

“We draw a lot of inspiration from artists we have loved for a long time,” says drummer Liam Triton.

Paloma Brunson mentioned that the band has been performing regularly at local venues, creating something to look forward to.  

From T-Shirts to Leather Jackets 

As this metal music presence grows in San Luis Obispo, it’s also starting to make its mark on the town’s fashion sense, especially among college students. While SLO’s typical style has been dominated by casual, surf-inspired outdoor wear—Patagonia jackets, flip-flops, and the occasional tie-dye—local shops and thrift stores are embracing the darker and more rebellious aesthetic. 

Shabang, a music festival hosted in San Luis Obispo, invites people who are interested in music and nature during May. As the set list for Shabang will soon be revealed, the young community at SLO is excited to hear that more bands who specialize in rock/metal might be showcased at the festival

Metal music was included in the musical festivals’ lineup in 2024, and grunge-inspired fashion was embraced because the music inspired individuals. If this trend continues during Shabang this year, people will expect to see ripped jeans, band tees, and combat boots instead of the frequent neon and glitter.  

If Shabang does embrace the metal genre, expect to see the typical neon and glitter aesthetic accompanied by ripped jeans, combat boots, and Metallica T-shirts.