It all started with a Facebook post from Fea/Girl in a Coma drummer Phanie Diaz. Though it has since been deleted, Diaz had a question to the effect of: “Where my Chicana punk vocalists at?”
I immediately knew that something was up with Fea, the Chicana punk band started by Diaz and bassist Jenn Alva. The pair is part of hometown heroes Girl in a Coma, who are currently signed to Joan Jett’s Black Heart label. On January 11, my suspicions were made official as Diaz posted an open call for a new guitar player and new lead vocalist.
Debuting at Maverick Music Festival in 2014, the band released their debut self-titled record two years later. The record was produced by big names in the industry, including Laura Jane Grace of Against Me!, Lori Barbero of Babes in Toyland and Alice Bag of OG, LA punks The Bags.
But Diaz said guitarist Aaron Magana and lead singer Letty Martinez lost passion for the band due to a few factors, including the demanding schedule and being on tour.
“It just wasn’t for them,” Diaz told the Current “Because we’ve been in the band for so long, we’re very demanding. We need to practice. We need to do these things because of our work ethic. It may have been too much for them.”
Despite losing half of the band, Diaz said they weren't going to throw in the towel just yet. With encouragement from their label, they decided to reach out to potential new members.
"Alice Bag introduced us to a guitar player that we’re trying out that also works with her," Diaz said. "As far as lead singers, Jessy Bulbo of Ultrasonicas was interested but didn’t work out and we’re currently speaking with Lex Flores Valentine of Magenta Lane."
Diaz said that even though they’re currently reaching out to these established artists, she explained that this is an open call to anyone interested who is willing to put in the necessary work, travel and practice to continue the band’s success. And, of course, has the same passion as Diaz and Alva.
One of the perks about joining Fea is that the new members will be joining the Blackheart label family, have a booking agency and possibly work with punk icon Iggy Pop, since Pop had previously expressed interest in working with the group.
But at the end of the day, it’s more than just the music – it’s about continuing a legacy that ensures the clear and accurate representation of Latin culture.
“We wanted to start a Chicana punk band, especially in these times and bring forth the culture and expose people to our heritage and subjects that don’t get sung about anymore.”
Here's your shot. Do you have what it takes to lead this punk band into their new season?
For more information and details about auditioning email Diaz at [email protected].
