Throughout his young and wild life, vocalist Miguel Joya — of local backyard punk staples Exocet — was known as the life of the party. Whether he was throwing parties or crashing them, his radiant energy inspired people.

Joya was 27 when he died last August, of a heart attack. His passing strongly reverberated throughout the scene. And this Saturday, August 9, the Poor Kids Mansion in Lincoln Heights will host Rumpshaker Fest 2, featuring many acts Joya knew or supported.

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The fest will include local punk, d-beat, crust, and metal bands, as well as DJs spinning goth, punk, and new wave. Renowned Portland bands Defiance and Hellshock are the headliners.

The event’s organizer, Al De La Riva, was inspired for another go-around after last year's debut — which raised money for Joya’s funeral arrangements — went over so well. 

Credit: Flyer by Marco Tombstone

Credit: Flyer by Marco Tombstone

“After talking to a lot of people, [they] really liked the idea of making it a legitimate fest and keeping it going,” De La Riva said.

“What better way to memorialize one of my best friends and have something that represents everything he was about? He touched a lot of people in a very special way, and keeping this going is the ultimate way to keep everything he was about alive.” 

Melody Mayer, a filmmaker who shot last year’s show as part of a documentary, said the gig helps with the healing process and keeps Joya's legacy alive.  

“After somebody dies, there’s always an intense remembrance of their life, and then little by little, that dissipates,” she said. “Doing this annually will generate excitement about Joya as a person for as long as it goes. I think it’s beautiful.”

Rumpshaker Fest 2 tickets are available online. Limited tickets will also be sold at the door. Early arrival is highly suggested.

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