Most people know we started in L.A., but only a few know that Boyle Heights is the birthplace of CVLT Nation. We worked out of a tiny corner of the Lip Service warehouse on S. Anderson, tucked in between sample racks and overlooking the cutting tables (R.I.P. Albert). I can’t remember exactly when we came up with the idea to do a blog and clothing company focused on heavy music and dark art, but it was probably when I was pregnant eating tacos dorados at Mariscos 4 Vientos or burritos at Santa Cecilia or taquitos at Al & Beas. I loved spending time east of the river because it felt like Los Angeles came to life once you crossed the bridge. Unlike in Santa Monica, in Boyle Heights the people were welcoming and the food was amazing. (I always say, I never felt more seen or appreciated as a pregnant lady than when I was in Boyle Heights.) It’s home to the influential Chicano culture that has a rich and deep history in Los Angeles, and it’s also home to sick underground punk and metal — whether at venues like The Blvd or the infamous backyard shows. Today I want to share an IG account that honors the history of L.A./SoCal Chicano culture, @ProductDelVarrio, sharing photos of tios and tias, hermanos and hermanas, chicanos and chicanas from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and beyond…check out a few of their posts here:
