By Justine Sanchez, Feb. 18, 2025
Two student bands from Cal Poly Pomona performed a mix of indie, alternative, Chicano rock and other genres for The Haven’s Valentine’s Day event in Pomona. Attendees consisted of other CPP students and residents to showcase the talents of local artists.
For The Paper Cutouts band, what started off as a solo project turned into a sibling music adventure of two brothers who share a passion for the stage and performed at The Haven for the first time.
George Castillo, a CPP music industry studies student, and his brother Drew Castillo have always loved music growing up, and they ultimately decided to start making music together in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This was our small-scale goal for a long time, so it’s sick that we’re playing here,” George Castillo said.
It wasn’t long ago when George and Drew Castillo first learned to play guitar and master the art of mixing and production. Looking back on their first extended play, they see just how far their music has come.
“All of the music we put out is just between us,” Drew Castillo said. “From production to release, from start to finish it just goes me to him, and that’s it.”
Over time, each performance has helped them become more confident and comfortable with their songs and stage presence. Drew is particularly excited for his favorite song, “Patrick Batewoman,” where he gets to “go crazy with it and get to move a lot around the stage.” This is a moment he thrives in as he embraces the energy of the crowd.
Finding connections and proper resources can be difficult for up-and-coming bands. However, with support from CPP’s Music Department, many student bands have been able to network, learn valuable skills and have access to the necessary equipment needed for their passion.
Professors have had a huge role in helping guide their students to grow in their music careers, specifically with plugins and software that often takes others longer to learn. George Castillo said his professor, Evren Goknar, gave him a lot of useful advice on how to better their craft.
“Had I not been in those classes, had I not known him to begin with, I don’t think we would be at the same quality that we are right now,” George Castillo said.
Lunavine also found it helpful to practice and rehearse at school while managing their busy schedules.
“The school gives us a lot of opportunities with the various classes,” Mark Davidson, an electrical engineering student, said. “There is a lot that they try to offer. You just have to reach out.”
Members of Lunavine all met through CPP classes and came together to help singer Andrea Herrera, a music industry studies student, on what was once a solo project. However, after playing together, they knew this was something they wanted to pursue together as it felt natural.
When thinking of a band name, they all knew they wanted something related to nature.
“The name Lunavine really brings up a very fresh aesthetic in a sense,” said drummer Hans Lontoc, a music industry studies student. “Because to me, when you imagine the name Lunavine, I see it as a door to new opportunities, and I see a garden where you’re like, ‘Wow, I made it.’”
Having a shared passion for the music has helped the band get better with each show.
“Music truly is life, and it’s our passion,” Lontoc said. “We are all really dedicated and care about the art. It allows us to grow as people, and we can’t be more thankful for the opportunities that we’ve been given so far.”
This is a similar mindset among other CPP student bands as they like to often help others out and collaborate on new pieces.
Getting on stage can be nerve-racking for some artists, and others can experience pure excitement. However, Herrera said she likes to channel her stage persona while performing.
“I’m trying to have more presence and get into the song to get more confidence,” Herrera said. “But it takes time.”
Attendee Priscilla Coronel, a music industry studies student, has been there to personally see the growth Herrara has gone through.
“She’s gotten a lot bolder on stage,” Coronel said. “Before, she was more shy, and now she’s more confident, and I’m really proud of her.”
Many have expressed the rapid growth between each show as it’s something they look back on fondly.
Roger Mantero, a music industry studies student, said he’s grown up surrounded by music and instruments.
“Music has been my whole life,” Mantero said. “My mom bought me my first guitar at 7, and it took off from there. I just knew this is what I love to do.”
The band said although they’re sad to finish up a show, they always look forward to the next time they get to perform.
To stay updated on these CPP student bands, you can follow them on Instagram @ThePaperCutouts and @Lunavinemusic
Feature image courtesy of Justine Sanchez
