The Rocky Valentines Biography
The Rocky Valentines, a project of multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Charlie Martin, burst onto the music scene in 2022 with a distinctive brand of indie rock. Known for guitar-driven melodies and intricate drum fills, Charlie is the son of Jason Martin, frontman of the influential Christian alternative rock band Starflyer 59, which rose to popularity in the early '90s.
Growing up surrounded by shoegazy, dreamy West Coast Britpop and rock and roll music, his musical style reflects the many different eras of Starflyer. Despite initially not envisioning a career in music, Charlie's talent and passion for creating compelling soundscapes led him to carve out his own space in the industry, beginning with The Rocky Valentines' self-titled EP in September 2022. The four-track project showcased Charlie's ability to merge introspective lyricism with driving guitar riffs and catchy melodies. The EP, produced by his father Jason, mixed by Bryce Rivera, with mastering by TW Walsh (ex-Pedro the Lion and Jason Martin's bandmate in Lo Tom), featured Charlie performing all instruments and vocals. Tracks like "Off & On" and "Shooting With One Eye" highlighted his knack for crafting songs that resonate with the nostalgia of youth while also exploring the complexities of growing up.
While Charlie's lyrics often explore nostalgic themes, reflecting on simpler, more fun, and innocent times, he explored a different theme with the release of a two-song EP titled "Merry Christmas" in late 2022. This EP included the single "Unknown," a song that reflects on the belief in a higher power and the reassuring nature of faith, as expressed in lyrics such as "Jesus knows what we're going through. He was once human too." In December 2023, The Rocky Valentines released a split four-song EP with Starflyer 59.
Building on the momentum of their debut, The Rocky Valentines released their first full-length album, Erase, in 2024 under Tooth & Nail Records. This album, mixed by Bob Hoag and mastered by Jason Livermore, further cemented Charlie's reputation as a rising star in the indie rock world. Erase channels influences ranging from Grant Hart to Tony Iommi, delivering a sound that is both a homage to rock's rich history and a fresh, modern take.
Charlie Martin's venture with The Rocky Valentines has been a testament to the enduring legacy of his musical lineage while also showcasing his distinct voice, drum work, and creative vision. As he continues to develop his sound and explore new musical landscapes, The Rocky Valentines are poised to leave a lasting impact on the indie music scene.