The skate industry often feels like a rinse-and-repeat cycle, with brands churning out the same basic products with different graphics. That’s why it’s refreshing to see what Bob Lasalle is doing with Satan’s Drano. He’s not just selling skateboards; he’s building a brand with its own unique identity, blending skateboarding with hot sauces and a healthy dose of ’90s skate culture vibes. Their recent video premiere at the Cha Cha Lounge in Los Angeles perfectly encapsulated this approach, embracing the classics while adding their own spicy twist.
The premiere was a mix of familiar faces and unique elements, a balance between tradition and innovation. It followed a more “experimental” premiere down in Tijuana, Mexico, which reportedly involved a lot more chugging and, well, the aftermath. This LA premiere was a chance to showcase the video in a classic setting, and we were there to soak it all in, support Bob, and maybe grab a few bottles of hot sauce.
Eric Koston’s appearance was a highlight. It’s funny to see him finally looking his age; a “Silver Fox” era, but his style remains timeless. He still dresses like a 20-year-old, which is a testament to his enduring influence in skateboarding.
The scene was almost like a modern Renaissance painting, filled with interesting characters and details. Jesse Alba was about to drop some obscure tracks, while a character in a gold chain stood out. The composition of the photo even followed the Golden Spiral, which is a testament to how well it captured the energy of the event.
Videographer Ryan Lee was, as usual, rocking his signature black hoodie. It seems like he’s always wearing one, which is a part of the unspoken “skate media uniform code”—black shoes, black jeans, and a black tee or hoodie. It’s a timeless look that fits right into the skate scene.
Mark Gonzales made an appearance in the video, which is always a guaranteed draw. Having him involved is like having a cheat code, and Bob should really secure a lifetime contract with him before another brand tries to scoop him up.
There was no shortage of chugging, with attendees fully embracing the party atmosphere. The energy was high, and it felt like a proper skate gathering.
One more chugging shot, just to capture the full spectrum of fun and shenanigans that were going on.
Satan’s Drano had a full range of goodies on display, including their signature hot sauces and other branded items. We might be giving Thrasher some free promo, but a free box from Bob would definitely be worth it.
After the premiere, the party moved to the LA River for an after-party and pop-up concert. The crew managed to find a perfect dry spot on the river bank to set up, creating a pretty unique venue. It was possibly one of the best stage setups we’ve ever seen.
While hauling gear over a potentially bacteria-ridden river might not be ideal, it was definitely worth it for the unique experience. The resulting photo captures the vibe perfectly.
Until next time, skate on!
This premiere was a testament to the brand’s unique blend of skateboarding and hot sauce culture, and we’re excited to see what Satan’s Drano does next. The night was a perfect example of how a skate brand can embrace its roots while pushing creative boundaries, and that’s something we can all appreciate.
Photos by: Marco Hernandez
