Skate-a-Palooza Debuts at Etnies Park

Skateboarders rolled and musicians rocked Friday night as held its first Bomb Grom, a combination concert and skate event.

“Music and skating have always been a good combination. I think the event was a success,” said recreation coordinator Scott Stewart. “We do free concerts once a month. This is just the first time we’ve given the opportunity to skate.”

While local bands played a variety of genres, skaters flew around from all angles of the park, giving the concert a kamikaze-like atmosphere. Kick flips, wheelies and huge arching turns seemed to flow to the rhythm of each band’s sound.

Many skateboarders enjoyed the new wing of Etnies skatepark, which features a 3-foot wall for beginner skateboarders as well as rails, ramps and a looming bowl for the more advanced crowd.

The bands included Mission Viejo surf rockers Aloha Radio.

“Originally, I was in a folk-rock band, then I picked up a ukulele and wrote ‘Deep Blue Ocean,’” said lead vocalist Lauren Mulderrig. “I’ve always been heavily involved with music and I like this direction better than folk rock.”

Also on the bill: Dana Point hip-hop artist Alex Roth, also known as Italix.

“I’ve been actively performing and making music for the past four years,” said Roth. “My sound is more of a roots hip-hop because roots reggae has a big influence in my life.”

The event was co-sponsored by RESiN Magazine, which profiles athletes, artists and musicians.

“It was nice to have companies donate and get the kids involved,” said Stewart. “I think we brought in $500 toward keeping the park free for Lake Forest residents.”