The Poppies

Formed in Hacienda Heights by founding members, Victor Lopez (vocals/rhythm guitar) and Nick Sanchez (drums) in early 2002, The Poppies were not a complete quartet until recruiting German Aguilera (bass) and Jeph Valenzuela (lead guitar/keyboard) in 2004. Originally playing gritty, toe-tapping rock and roll, it wasn’t until the members reached back to their early musical influences, and a few from today as well, that they developed the sound they have today, a progressive, throw back rock reminiscent of The Beatles and even today’s Secret Machines. Though the band has worked as a whole to write the songs, it has been Victor who has always brought the skeleton of the songs to the rest of the group. This is where Nick’s precise drumming and German’s intricate bass lines help Jeph to fill in the gaps with his unique style of guitar playing and keyboard effects. But it’s the band’s musicianship that allows them to often switch instruments and display their unique versatility for songwriting.Even with having recorded an early demo, as well as a 6 song EP in 2005, it has been the constant writing of new songs that keeps every live show different. With a repertoire of over 20 songs in just one year, the set lists range from their early 3 minute dance-rock tunes, to 10 minute instrumentals that reflect their inspirations taken from other bands like Pink Floyd, and The Mars Volta.Beginning like most, The Poppies first started playing at backyard parties where they built a strong hometown following, but have quickly moved on to local venues such as The Whiskey, Cat Club, Spaceland, The Alley, BB Kings Blues Club, and a few shows at The Glasshouse in Pomona, where they opened up for Gram Rabbit and Kansas City’s The Golden Republic (Astralwerks). Impressing the club owners, The Poppies were asked to play again with Seattle’s Dolour (Made in Mexico Records) and The Catch (Made in Mexico Records).