About The Shiny Darks

It’s punk rock with a kick to the face and a pat on the back. It’s true, “happy” and “positive” aren’t normally associated with aggressive music, but there’s more to The Shiny Darks than meets the eye. The thrillsome threesome from Houston, TX has managed to create a sound like no other, one that can start a pit and keep you smiling all at once. Epitomized in their debut EP At War With the World, The Shiny Darks’ transcend traditional punk, kick it up a notch, and slam it back down. “I’m Not the One” has been hitting rock radio stations and has brought with it attention for the band nationally and internationally.

Brother and sister, Paul and Gem Mendez established The Shiny Darks in 2005. Since forming the three-piece punk thrash phenomena, Paul and Gem have made a huge impact in every market they reach. “People like us because we’re fun to hang with,” says Gem Mendez, The Shiny Darks’ drummer, “Not only that, but we actually care about our fans and want to invest the time into them as they have to our music.”

After several alterations to the lineup, the two joined forces with guitarist Quenton Rockwell. “I think I added a jagged edge to the group. I definitely bring in some rock and thrash influences.”

At shows, don’t even think about sitting down, much less standing still. Between the clapping, jumping, and moshing, a Shiny Darks’ show requires endurance and stamina. “You will move, you will clap, and you will enjoy yourself,” says Paul, The Shiny Darks’ bassist “And hopefully you won’t get an elbow to the face.”

“I can’t think of one place we’ve played where we haven’t won the crowd over,” says Quenton. He continues, “I mean we play with all sorts of bands: metal, punk, emo, pop, hip hop, gospel choirs. You name it!”

“We’ll play with anybody anywhere anytime,” says Gem, “We will tear it up anywhere we go!”

You’ve been warned.

Band Members