THE TRESTLES MAKE NOISE ACROSS THE CALIFORNIA COAST
THE BANSHEE — SAN DIEGO, CA
While the rest of San Diego was settled in for a seemingly quiet Sunday night, the Trestles had the stickered walls of the Banshee shaking. Joining forces with The Dirty Turkeys, they finished out the final show of their WEST IS THE BEST tour, a month-long run stretching across California and Nevada.
Originating from Santa Cruz, the Trestles have concocted an unparalleled blend of 60’s garage meets surf rock. This has resulted in a sound that perfectly embodies the essence of Southern California. I first came across the group—like a lot of music nowadays—through TikTok. My nightly doomscroll was abruptly stopped by "Bones", a whimsical track that has you tapping your feet before you can realize it. I’ve never felt so compelled to save a song, and they have become a staple in my music rotation ever since.
With a simplified set-up, the night focused on the music laid out in front of us. The crowd may have started out as bashful; however, the inviting demeanor of the group quickly eased the atmosphere. As the free-spirited melodies of songs such as "Give it to Me Straight" and "Place in the Sun" weaved through the room, groups began to make their way to the front, itching to get closer. All around, heads began to synchronize with the beat, hands slowly elevated in the air, and smiles became abundant.
The tunes continued to flow. The magenta stage lights reflected off the dozens of phones desperate to capture the sounds before them. The set neared its end with songs such as "Ode to Slander" and "Turn Me Around" from their newest EP, Death by Misadventure, released earlier this year. The final song brought me back to a full circle moment. As "Bones" began playing, I was left with no choice but to put my camera down and appreciate every chord.
There is no doubt that we will see this band of pals sell out iconic venues in the near future, making this intimate night all the more memorable. With the release of their sophomore album, SALT, in 2025, and new music already coming this year, the group of friends shows no signs of losing their growing momentum. You can catch them on their own extensive 3-month run across the Western United States later this year or as support for Old Mervs. I’ve already made sure to secure my ticket, and I highly recommend you do as well.
