We thought it would be fun to get to know a little bit more about our Anthology Artists so we've asked them to participate in a Q&A. Here's the "Quick Six" with Anthology Artist Valentino Arteaga, drummer for Of Mice and Men and LowerDEFINITION:
1. First concert you attended?
One of my greatest memories is my father taking me on my 14th to see the band Cake at the local venue in my home city of San Diego, CA called SOMA. Absolutely changed my life! Frank Sinatra, Nugget & The Distance are my favorite jams.
2. How old were you when you started playing the drums?
I picked up drumsticks at 14 & never looked back. I spent my early years learning music theory & many other instruments, drums were my fun/hobby instrument.
3. Venue you would love to play at (or a dream venue that you have already played at)?
My dream is to one day see all of Madison Square Garden headbanging with me.
4. Artist or song you are into most right now?
I gotta say this young band from Australia called, Thornhill. They’ve got the freshness, the attitude, the riffs & the heaviness that I love so much.
5. Do you have any pre-show rituals or superstitions?
I like to get myself & my band pumped up by listening to our favorite bands at excruciating volumes. We call it “nu-metal warm up” & we get inspired by all the greats, singing, jumping & moshing around the dressing room before hitting the stage.
6. Who has inspired you most as a musician?
Hands down Tom Morello. A riff legend but also a legendary activist who fights for the rights of the voiceless & finds ways to engage & activate his audience through the power of riff & music. A living legend.
Follow Valentino on Instagram @youngfuego