Riverside Art Museum Unearths IE’s Punk & Ska Scene

Los Angeles may often hog the spotlight for Southern California’s music history, but a new exhibit at the Riverside Art Museum is shining a well-deserved light on the Inland Empire’s vibrant punk rock, hardcore, and ska scene. This deep dive into local music history, presented by none other than Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker, promises a nostalgic journey for longtime fans and an eye-opening experience for newcomers.

Explore “60 Miles East”: The IE’s Underground Sound

Titled “60 Miles East: Riverside’s Underground Punk Rock, Hardcore & Ska Scene, from the late 1980s to early 2000s,” this exhibit runs through April 12, 2026, offering a comprehensive look at a pivotal era. The name itself is a tribute to Donax, the former band of co-curator Ken Crawford, immediately rooting the experience in local lore. Visitors will discover how the youth of Riverside forged their own distinct musical identity amidst the region’s unique landscape.

A Treasure Trove of Music Memorabilia

Co-curated by lifelong Riversiders Ken Crawford and Zach Cordner, the exhibit is a meticulously crafted time capsule. It features a rich collection of historical items, including original event flyers, vintage ticket stubs, and authentic band T-shirts. Imagine seeing a 1993 contract between Spanky’s Cafe and Green Day, or the original Lucha Libre mask worn by Voodoo Glow Skulls frontman Frank Casillas. These artifacts, alongside a massive wall of scanned flyers from iconic bands like The Ramones, Black Flag, and T.S.O.L., transport attendees back to a time when print media and word-of-mouth fueled a thriving underground.

Photographs by Cordner and Crawford capture the essence of the era, showcasing performances at legendary local venues such as Spanky’s Cafe, UC Riverside’s The Barn, and the Showcase Theatre in Corona. The intertwined worlds of skateboarding and punk rock, often a haven for outcasts, are beautifully documented, highlighting the community that defined this unique scene.

Travis Barker’s Deep Roots in the Inland Empire

For many, Travis Barker is synonymous with global punk rock success, but his journey began right here in the Inland Empire. From his early days growing up in Fontana, Barker was a frequent attendee at local shows, seeing bands like No Doubt and Firehose at venues like Spanky’s. He actively sought opportunities to play, joining bands like Feeble and The Aquabats, often discovering new genres and honing his craft in the process.

Barker’s connection runs even deeper through his collaboration with Bill Fold’s 98 Posse, a collective known for organizing affordable, all-ages shows at UC Riverside’s The Barn. This grassroots effort brought major acts like Korn, Deftones, and Rage Against the Machine to local audiences, leaving an indelible mark on musicians like Barker. His decision to sponsor this exhibit is a testament to his appreciation for his roots, with the museum even featuring photos of his original Famous Stars & Straps store in Riverside from 1999, capturing his formative years before superstardom.

A Call for Future Scenes

More than just a historical showcase, the exhibit carries a powerful message for the future. Co-curators Cordner and Crawford, also co-founders of The Riversider Magazine, hope “60 Miles East” will inspire a new generation to revitalize the local music scene. They envision a future with new all-ages venues, providing safe spaces for high school bands to play and new communities to form, just as they did decades ago.

Exhibit Details for Your Visit

Ready to immerse yourself in the rich history of the Inland Empire’s punk, hardcore, and ska scenes? Here’s what you need to know:

Frequently Asked Questions About the Exhibit

• What historical period does the exhibit cover?
  It focuses on Riverside’s underground punk rock, hardcore, and ska scene from the late 1980s to the early 2000s.
• Who are the main figures behind this exhibition?
  The exhibit is co-curated by Ken Crawford and Zach Cordner, with Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker and 98 Posse as presenters.
• What kind of memorabilia can I expect to see?
  You’ll find original event flyers, ticket stubs, band T-shirts, photographs, and unique artifacts like a Voodoo Glow Skulls mask and an early Green Day contract.
• Is the exhibit suitable for all ages?
  Yes, it’s designed to be accessible, with free admission for children under 12.
• What is the overall goal of “60 Miles East”?
  Beyond showcasing history, it aims to inspire the resurgence of an all-ages music scene in the Riverside area.

For any Angeleno, or Southern California resident, interested in the rich, often unsung, musical tapestry of our region, this exhibit offers a crucial piece of the puzzle and a compelling reason to venture 60 miles east.

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