By Rich Henrich
The 2nd Annual El Gato Skateboard Classic is set to launch this weekend in Palm Springs bringing many legends of skateboarding to town for a celebration of culture and heritage- two words I never thought would be associated with skateboarding. Along with the art, fashion and skate contests will be music by a band that is as intertwined with the scene as trucks on a deck. Orange County punk rock band Agent Orange will headline the event. I had a chance to catch up with front man Mike Palm to talk about music, the industry, skating and culture.
CV: I was surprised to learn that the band was still playing together.
MP: Yeah, we haven’t stopped but perhaps are more under the radar. The band has been around for a long time. I think we’ve found a way to stay grounded and just keep making music and never forget the whole point. It’s like our day job.
CV: How did you become involved with the classic?
MP: I’ve known Eddie (Elguera) for so long, I can’t remember how we met. He wanted us to play last year but we were in Seattle.
CV: What’s your journey as a band been like?
MP: Well, the music industry was in a bad place. No one was sure what to do. We decided what was important was to play well and connect with our audience. So, that’s what we’ve done.
CV: You cut out the middleman?
MP: It’s about the listener and the band. We’ve carved out our own niche and avoided a lot of the mainstream. No label to tell us how to do it.
CV: What do you miss by not hving a label?
MP: Airplay would be great!
Check them out this Saturday or online at www.agentorange.net
