Culture of the East LA Backyard Scene
The Chicano Punk Scene was and still remains a largely DIY (Do It Yourself) Culture. Most of the shows happen in open lots around East LA, and are promoted by active members of the Chicano Punk Scene. These Backyard shows are inclusive events, and all are welcome to come no matter their age, gender, race, ethnicity, or sexual identity. Many in the scene will sport the classic punk aesthetic with ripped jeans, combat boots, leather jackets, and eccentric hair styles and colors. These shows serve as an aggressive outlet from neighborhood violence and rough home lives for both youth in the audience and those performing. Quite frequently during these shows the line between performers and audience members becomes blurred, with the performers joining the crowd in pushing and shoving while they are playing. The performances of the bands in this scene focus more on raw energy than technical musicianship. This creates an environment where anybody who feels the need to express themselves in this way is able to perform with limited musical skill.