Houston’s Underground: By the People, For the People

Under the glow of the White Swan’s low-lit patio, a cigarette is passed between two show-goers. A shared smoke to the naked eye signifies the spark of a friendship unborn. Densely packed mosh pits fueled by passion and a combined love for the band captivating the stage become vibrant spaces connecting strangers. Each show, artistic event and gathering signify a thread woven into a larger fabric making up the Houston scene. The city, overflowing with a variety of subcultures, provides a home for those seeking creativity and community. From intimate venues to frenzied house shows, the Houston punk scene single-handedly rewrites what it means to be a creative. These spaces offer a sense of belonging and provide a home for many who thrive on the feeling.

Creating without constraint: the core of “being punk” lies in this phrase alone. A multifaceted subculture, creativity is found in more than just the music. Below the surface of heavy riffs and loud drum patterns, the scene holds a sense of sanctuary unfound from looking in. Personal expression is the driving force behind everything—whether it be through fashion, art or music. The local scene thrives on its embrace of perspective and fueled by a blend of working-class values, diversity and an overall clash of tradition versus what is perceived to be the norm. It’s a space where individuality is not only celebrated, but central to the culture. 

Holding true to the values of individualism, frontman of local punk band Los Kalaveras, Eddie Rios, describes his connection to Houston’s underground scene. An acknowledged feeling of relation resonates with the musician, as he expresses appreciation for, “common ground with other folks that have also been marginalized or excluded from society. Finding a place here [in the scene] has been the antithesis of what punk really is.” Rios challenges the negative stigma that the media perpetuates, emphasizing the importance of people having a space to freely express themselves. “I think being a punk means living in a way that’s most authentic to oneself despite the labels society puts on you.” Non-conformity stands as one of the pillars of the Houston scene, thus providing people with the resources to find community among others with shared identities. For Rios, punk symbolizes more than a genre or style. It’s a refuge for those that are both overlooked and misunderstood by mainstream ideologies. 

The scene’s do-it-yourself (DIY) aspect takes an even more personal approach. Though shows get people’s foot in the door, the community connections are what keep the flame ablaze. A limitation of outside resources only further motivates, presenting an opportunity to display self-sufficient creation. Most musicians in the scene, as well as the venues that support them, must fund themselves. The same restrictions are also placed on local artists. Those that frequent local shows inhabit a space of their own—one where they can contribute to the creativity that makes up the Houston scene. Like-minded individuals surround each other at art markets, showcasing any and everything handmade. Self-produced zines, eclectic crafts and unique pieces can be found displayed at tabling events open to all. Beyond making a quick buck, local talents are given a platform to share their work, collectively authentic and driven by a desire to do more.

Houston’s DIY culture continuously lives on through collaboration and shared efforts. The sole proprietor of Temp Tats Magazine, a Texas-based publication documenting DIY culture, Tyler Trevino is consistently involved in the organization of both art markets and shows. As a Houston native, he describes his relationship to the scene, emphasizing the importance of connection within the city’s underground community. “I’ve always loved going to local shows and events because the people in the community are so kind, driven and creative,” he says. Sharing a similar perspective is Texas-based artist, Pleiades Talukder. Operating under the brand name Unclaimed Superiority, Talukder has been in the scene for around eight years. After attending shows, they gained inspiration to open their brand, selling handcrafted art, from paintings to linoleum prints. As a frequent attendee of these local events, some of which Trevino hosts, you can often find them behind a vending table, sharing their art with anyone open to listening.

Without the Houston scene, I wouldn’t be where I am today. We all deserve to love what we do, and I’m endlessly grateful to have a place in this world to reach out that feels and does the same,” Talukder declares.

Eddie, Tyler and Pleiades all have one thing in common: they’ve imprinted their mark as independents within Houston’s local scene. Their reflections on the time they’ve spent around punk culture emulate a feeling of belonging, one that has only been made known due to the overwhelming community support. People show out, make their support clear and that’s what keeps the spirit alive.

Support your local venue! Support your local artist! Support your local band!

The scene is built on the creative foundation of those who are unafraid of letting their artistry thrive. Venues like House of J, White Swan, The End and 1810 Ojeman are all great places to find this community. These places are full of experiences you won’t find elsewhere. It is crucial to keep the momentum alive, because at its core, the people are what keep the culture alive.