If not for the band’s Tumblr, an unsuspecting listener might figure the Allah-Las recently emerged from a time capsule. Nothing in their jangly surf sound and stitched together Super 8 music videos indicate a band of 2008 origin—more like 1965.
Fittingly, three of the four members of the local band—drummer Matt Correia, bassist Spencer Dunham and lead guitarist Pedrum Siadatian—worked at Amoeba Music when the the Allah-Las was formed. Vocalist and rhythm guitarist Miles Michaud, interviewed below, attempted to get a job there, but couldn’t due to there already being too many surfers.
How long have you lived in LA and what neighborhood do you call home?
I guess I’ve lived in LA my whole life. I grew up in the South Bay, about 15 miles south of downtown. I now live in Mar Vista, which is on the west side of town, next to Venice.
Favorite neighborhood outside of the one you live in now:
It’s a toss up between a few. One of the main things I love about Los Angeles is how distinct different neighborhoods are. I love Topanga Canyon, Mt. Washington, downtown, Echo Park. They are all good for different reasons.
Best show you have attended in LA:
I’ve seen my fair share, but Brian Wilson at the Hollywood Bowl did it for me on many different levels.
Most memorable local gig:
Ending our U.S. tour with Nick Waterhouse at a sold out El Rey, or when a random kid’s dad sat in for drums at the Smell when Matt was in the hospital. Opposite ends of the spectrum.
Best meal for $10 or less:
El Tarasco Jr. Super Deluxe—gotta get it on Rosecrans in Manhattan Beach after a few waves. Also, the Hickory Burger at Apple Pan.
Favorite LA dive:
Little Joy back when Joe ran the roost.
Best-late night bite:
The Pantry has the best toast.
Favorite place to pop bottles:
I prefer to savor all of my bottles and any plot of land that has good folks on it will do
Best place to shop for music gear:
Time Warp
LA’s best kept secret:
I’m still learning new ones every day.
Three things that make it hard to leave:
Weather, ocean, people
The most interesting person you know in LA:
Probably Tree Man
