Strychnine Radio

In this episode, we sit down with Damien, David, Mando, Marcelino, Paulito, and Rigo of Valley Rats to talk about how the band came together, their journey so far, and the psychedelic surf rock ’n’ roll sound they call Psyrf ‘N’ Roll. We get into the music that has shaped them, their evolution as a band, and what’s next for Valley Rats. The band also performs an exclusive two-song live session for...

In this episode, we sit down with Sid Ryan, bassist and vocalist of Grade 2, to talk about his journey in music, from starting the band on the Isle of Wight, England, to taking their music around the world. Sid shares stories from life on tour, his time living in California, and what it has been like working and sharing stages with some of Punk Rock’s biggest bands. We also get into the experience...

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Joshua, all the way from Miami, Florida, joined by his crew Camden, Diego, Nico Corredor and Gabe, to talk about his journey in music and the path that has led him to where he is today. Jason shares how he got started, the experiences that helped shape his sound, and the work that went into building a successful career as an independent artist. We also get i...

In this episode, we sit down with Mandie Bee to talk about the many music projects she’s been part of over the years and the experiences that have shaped her as an artist. We also get into how she balances being a mom, teaching college courses, working toward her master’s degree, building her business, and continuing to make music. Mandie shares the journey that led her to step out with her own mu...

In this episode, we sit down with Berns, Corey, Daniel, and Elmar of Cold Cut to talk about the band’s beginnings in Fontana, California, their journey over the years, and the music and artists that helped shape their sound. We get into their evolution from Hard Rock to a sound rooted in Soul, Blues, Funk, and Classic Rock ’n’ Roll, as well as the making of their new album, "Low Haze." C...

In this episode, we sit down with Johnny of Ojos Sucios, along with his number one supporters, Carina, Kevin, and Jen. Johnny shares the story behind Ojos Sucios, the musical projects that led him to create the project, and the influences that have shaped his sound.  We also talk about his songwriting process, his approach to blending ballads, beats, and electronic music, and what's next for...

In this episode we sit down with Josh, Miguel, and Ralph of Saint Harvy. We talk about the band's formation, from longtime collaborators coming together during the uncertainty of the pandemic to building a following through independently released singles and powerful live performances. We also dive into their early musical projects, the songwriting and influences that helped shape Saint Harvy...

In this episode, we sit down with Rory and Ryan of The Hexxers, along with their band manager Jessica. We dig deep into the early days of The Real Goners, the creation of The Hexxers, and the path that led them to their current sound. From Rockabilly and Goth/Post-Punk to Garage Punk, we discuss the records, influences, and experiences that helped shape the band. We also get into their debut relea...

In this episode, we sit down with Colt, Daniel, Jeymar, Jon, Johnny, Kailyn, Marcus, and Micah of Johnny Ruiz & the Escapers. Joining us all the way from Las Vegas, the band talks about the early days of forming the band, the music that shaped their sound, and the timeless blend of sweet soul and classic harmonies that defines their music. We also get into what’s ahead for the band in 2026 and...

In this episode, we sit down with Bailey, David, Kevin, Marco, and Vic of The Offtrax, an Orange County band blending Indie and Garage Rock into a sound that’s all their own. What started as a jam session between high school friends has grown into a band carving out their place in the music scene. We talk about their roots, musical influences, and how their sound has evolved over the years. Send u...

In this episode, we sit down with Ben, Jarrod, and Frankie of The Volcanics, a San Gabriel Valley band embodying the spirit of traditional Southern California surf music. We talk about their influences, their signature sound, and how they’ve carved out their place in the surf scene. We also get into their latest record "In 3-D" and what continues to drive their high-energy, instrumental...

In this episode, we sit down with Juan, Kumar, Paco, and Roland of Hyper Minds, an East Los Angeles band blending Garage, Punk and Psych into a raw, high-energy sound. We talk about their roots, musical influences, and how they’ve been building momentum since forming in early 2024. We also dive into their creative process, the direction of their sound, and what’s ahead for the band in 2026, includ...

In this episode, we sit down with Eddie Lopez of Eddie and thee Scorpions. We talk about the influences behind his high-energy Rock & Roll sound, his journey in music, and what keeps him inspired. Beyond music, Eddie is involved in several crafts including barbering, custom pinstriping, DJing, and restyling classic cars.  Eddie also performs two songs live exclusively for Strychnine Radio — ac...

On Episode 33, we’re joined by Chris, Joel, Mario, and Oscar of Knockout Kings — a Rock & Roll band out of Orange County, California blending Soul and Blues into a sound that’s uniquely their own. We sit down to talk about their upbringings, early musical influences, how the band came together, and what’s ahead for them in 2026. The band also performs two songs live exclusively for this episod...

In Episode 32, we sit down with Esteban and Paco of La Florería Primavera con Los Hermanos Flores. The two share their family roots, the history behind the project, and how their upbringing has shaped their approach to music. We dive into their influences and the many music projects they’ve been a part of over the years. A conversation grounded in family history, musical influence, the music they...

In Episode 31, we sit down with Albert, Erick, Irbinn and Jorge of The Killing Floors, a Los Angeles–based rock ’n’ roll band known for their raw, fuzz-driven sound. Rooted in a shared love of ’60s garage rock, punk, and psychedelic music, the band blends high-energy riffs with bilingual vocals that reflect their wide range of influences. We talk about how the band came together, their reputation...

In Episode 30, we sit down with Henry, Jacob, and Talon of The Searchlights, a rising band from the San Gabriel Valley. They share how the band came together and the sound they’re continuing to shape. We also get into the other projects they’re involved in, the music that inspires them, and what’s ahead as they continue to grow. The Searchlights will be your new favorite band. Send us Fan Mail IG...

In this episode, we’re joined by Jazmine, Jorge, Peter, Ricky and Walter of Thee Heart Tones, based out of Hawthorne, California. The band met in their teenage years and has already built a strong name for themselves with their soul-driven sound, packed shows, and a rapidly growing presence in the scene. We talk about how they came together, the influences behind their music, and the momentum they...

In this episode, we sit down with Cameron, JJ, Jordan, Manny, and Richie of Los Tranquilos. A band based out of Nipomo, California whose sound draws from 1960s/1970s Románticas, Soul, and Latin American Psychedelia. Formed in 2022, the band blends family history, cultural roots, and musical influences to create a style that feels both timeless and distinct. We dive into how the band came together,...

In this episode, we sit down with Jesus Cruz, an award-winning independent filmmaker based in the Bay Area. We’re also joined by Ruben Molina—respected scholar, vinyl selector, and author—who has dedicated decades to preserving and championing Chicano Soul and rare Soul culture. We dive into Soul Searchin’, the award-winning documentary that explores the world of rare Soul collectors, the sweet So...

In Episode 26, we sit down with Joey Quiñones, one of the key voices shaping the modern Soul sound. Known as the frontman of Thee Sinseers, Joey opens up about growing up in East L.A. and the sounds that influenced his music. From his early days with The Delirians, The Steady 45s, and The Altons, to leading Thee Sinseers, Joey’s journey spans Ska, Reggae, and Soul — honoring the past while carving...

This episode marks one full year since we launched Strychnine Radio! What started as an idea to bring friends together to share music and stories has grown into something bigger than we could have imagined. We take a moment to reflect on why we started the podcast, who we are, and what’s ahead as we look toward Year 2. Big thanks to our hosts Amanda, Dianne and Oscar for stepping in and making thi...

We sat down with Ben, Kevin, Marlene, and Victor of The Rhythm Shakers—a band that fuses the raw energy of late ’50s and early ’60s Rock & Roll with Soul, Blues, and edge of modern music.  In this episode, the band shares stories from their journey, and the evolution of their sound. Whether tearing up L.A. clubs or electrifying crowds in Europe, The Rhythm Shakers prove they’re at the top of t...

From the heart of Santa Ana, California, Oralia blends together Jazz, Bossa Nova, Indie, and Acoustic Pop into something truly their own.  In this episode, Angie, Eddie, Jonathan, and Mario share how the band came together, the influences behind their sound, and the emotion that fuels their songwriting. A must-watch band on the rise—you’ll want to keep them on your radar. Send us Fan Mail IG : str...

In Episode 22, we sit down with Luis, aka King Steady Beat — producer, vinyl selector, promoter and the force behind Steady Beat Recordings and Steady Beat Records in San Pedro, California.  Starting out as a teenager spinning backyard parties, Luis walks us through his deep involvement in LA’s music scene — from high-energy and electro-funk parties in the '80s to organizing iconic Ska and Re...