42 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY December 12-18, 2024 www.montereycountynow.com MUSIC Sam Cauthorn had a decade’s worth of songs that he wanted to bring to life. What he didn’t have was a band. Originally rehearsing with another group, Shannon and the Nightdivers, its members gave Cauthorn a list of musicians. That’s how he found the perfect lineup in bass player James Chrzanowski and drummer Diana Hagerty. Weekly rehearsals solidified their chemistry, but it wasn’t until their first live gig at Other Brother Beer Co., in Seaside in 2023, that Cauthorn realized they had something special. What Squid Brain launched is surf rock meets psychedelic with—and it will make sense when you hear them—a Monterey twist. The band has a knack for the unexpected. Every classic surf rock band should have an instrumental anthem that showcases their personality. “Wharf Bomb” is Squid Brain’s version, complete with high-energy guitar riffs and barking seals. Chrzanowski has a psychedelic-infused shred fest in the final minute of the tune, adding a trippy, high-energy twist. But before you get used to that, at another live performance, it may be Cauthorn who takes center stage and rips into a shoe-gazey solo. According to Hagerty, “Party Down” represents Squid Brain because it has a guitar solo that feels psychedelic. “Everything just grooves,” she observes. “I feel like that’s the song that kinda says who we are.” Chrzanowski loves the driving groove and classic rock sound of “Blonde Ponytail Guy,” which comes complete with catchy riffs and humorous lyrics. In the beginning, the words are almost spoken but the song builds up energy until Cauthorn is screaming. That’s right—they like to be loud. And by that they mean head bangin’ loud. Cauthorn recalls a time when he was being a geek “making up weird sounds” as the band was setting up. The others started contributing, and that’s how a jam session became “Snuggle and Dug.” “The first recording was epic,” raves Cauthorn. Their next gig is at How Original, an event featuring a lineup of 10 local bands showcasing original tunes to benefit veterans (see Hot Pick, p. 36). “We’re going to be playing with so many established bands,” Hagerty says with a smile. “This is a great opportunity.” Squid Brain plays during How Original, 2-10pm Saturday, Dec. 14. American Legion Post 512, Dolores Street between 8th and 9th, Carmel. $30. 624-9941. JAMES CHANGE - TOP DOG IMAGES Wharf Bomb New on the scene, Squid Brain creates an atmosphere that is anything but predictable. By Tonia Eaton Sam Cauthorn, Diana Hagerty and James Chrzanowski make up Squid Brain, a band name inspired by a line in the ’90s movie Point Break. Custom Desigg! Repairs! Finished Jewelrr! Watch Baaeries! Lapidarr Serrices! Appraisals! Local Arrists Specimens Supplies & More 2245 Norrh Fremont St, Monterey (831)375-3027 www.peninsulagemandjewelrr.com Tuesday-Friday 10-5:30 Sattrday 10-4:00
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