Long Beach Band “Adulterine” Sticks to DIY Roots While Carving Own Path

Long Beach local band “Adulterine" has not only built their following by consistently playing shows locally, but have also proven to be a true DIY band, despite the challenges they face.  

Photos by ILee @x3371x

Originally formed with lead singer Riley, drummer Jordan, and bassist Kate, Adulterine found their sound in cut-throat vocals and heart-pumping tracks. The band's sound only sharpened when X-Acto guitarist Max joined the band to play guitar. Now, the four piece band shakes Long Beach venues like Alex's Bar, and The Vine. 

 Primarily playing tracks from their 2024 self-titled EP, the band has perfected their personal identity and sound. Through this development, a mix of influences across the board can be heard scattered through the tracks. 

When asked about influences and bands that have impacted them, Max replied, “I love midwest Indiana egg shit. I'm a fat youtube whore, but also I'm a funk motherfucker. I love funky riffs.” 

Lead singer Riley replied to the same question saying, “Honestly vocally wise when I first started singing all I wanted to do was like, No Doubt-Gwen Stefani. Clearly that’s not what we are now. Lately it's been “Amyl And The Sniffers”. My vocals and sound aren't like her, but my lyrics are very inspired by Jim Morrison”. 

While Riley’s vocal influences may be hard to pin down at first, and maybe even second glance, perhaps the most interesting aspect is the recording process. 

“I did my vocals in the bathroom here (Alex's Bar) on a four-track Yamaha,” said Riley. “And the craziest part is that three years ago, apparently I was drunk and told my friend I was going to record my vocals in here. That was some kind of manifestation.” 

While most bands use recording time to sit back and fine-tune their tracks away from crowded bars and snotty sound engineers, Adulterine had other thoughts. 

Adulterine bassist Kate explains saying “I feel like I get nervous when recording and I’ll fuck up even though when I practice, I play fine.” In the eyes of Kate, playing live in front of the crowd is less intimidating than the pressure of perfecting tracks in the studio. 

Despite the challenges that come within the recording studio, Adulterine has carefully and methodically crafted their sound. Following the addition of guitarist Max, the band claims to have an undeniable shift in sound, opting to accommodate Max’s creative riffs. 

“When I joined I added my own little flair. I like being weird,” said Max. “I feel like we go from weirdness to normal punk vibes. I think we've definitely changed our sound a little bit, but we stick to weird punk.”

Vocalist Riley adds on to say, “He brings intricacy. There are weird funky parts in between the punk and for me I always want to be fast. We can slow it down and we can be weird, that’s what sets us apart. If it feels good it probably sounds good.” 

Based on the band's stage presence, feeling good is a cornerstone of the band's identity. Adulterine members share smiles throughout the set, and brush off any small mistakes to solidify the love they have for simply playing music. 

While the genuine love for the craft is the basis for the band, this should not be confused with laziness or complacency. Adulterine has plans to release a new album, and accommodate the album with talks of tours as far as they can go. Aside from the musical creativity, the band is also in conversations of music videos following the next album release. However, music is the top priority. 

At the end of the day, Adulterine is a band that stands out for a few reasons. Whether it be a wicked combination of sounds and influence, the ambition to create and grow outside the Long Beach area, or even the strange and hilarious recording process, Adulterine holds more than meets the eye, and if you listen closely, more than hits the ear.