Loma Prieta Members, Gear & Sound

Loma Prieta is a potent force in the hardcore punk scene, hailing from the Bay Area of California. Formed in 2005, the band is named after the devastating 1989 earthquake that struck Northern California, a fitting moniker for their seismic impact on the genre. The lineup features Valeriano Saucedo III (drums), Sean Leary (guitar and vocals), Brian Kanagaki (guitar and vocals), and James Siboni (bass). Known for their intense blend of screamo, post-hardcore, hardcore punk, mathcore, and melodic hardcore, Loma Prieta’s music is an exploration of raw emotion and technical prowess. Their journey through the DIY circuit and partnerships with labels like Deathwish Inc. has cemented their reputation as innovators of modern hardcore.

Loma Prieta's sound is characterized by a chaotic yet melodic intensity, where dissonant guitar riffs and frenetic drumming collide with moments of unexpected beauty. Their sonic landscape is both aggressive and intricate, often weaving complex time signatures with emotionally charged melodies. The Gibson Les Paul Studio, wielded by Brian Kanagaki, contributes to the band’s thick, resonant tones, while Sean Leary’s use of the Boss DS-1 Distortion and Boss RV-6 Reverb pedals adds layers of gritty overdrive and expansive reverb. The interplay of these elements creates a soundscape that is simultaneously harsh and haunting, inviting listeners into a visceral and immersive experience.