We had the good fortune of connecting with Jose Barrientos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jose, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
The metal community is big, despite the lack of airplay and radio stations dedicated to this genre it is a world wide recognized form of expression. A side from the controversial topics depicted throughout songs, the community is very accepting and friendly, we are a loving group and I have made so many new friendships because of the joy one feels when presented with such intricate melodies and aggressive performances. As a concert photographer, and website CEO, I have not faced any aggression toward me by the people in this community. Also, most of the concert goers who attend these shows have respectable jobs and are a joy to be around.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a concert photographer, and the love for the music and knowledge of the genre alone sets me apart from others. The way I approach my photography is usually by recognizing where the artists will be on stage, paying attention to the songs and knowing what part of the song I would like to photograph each musician respectively. It took me five years to build my portfolio, with constant trial and error during live performances I only pushed my self harder each show I would photograph. I have developed a huge list of contacts and professionally I am at the stage where I can travel and cover shows of large magnitudes such as Louder Than Life, or Aftershock, either locally or over seas. It has been a challenge, specially having a full time job and traveling to destinations I have never been to. Along the way, I’ve learned to make connections and respect the rules every venue has as well as band management policies. My website, rockbrary.com is dedicated to deliver the latest news in the metal world, interviews and concert coverage. The main focus is to unite people of all ages, races and backgrounds with one common interest, Metal. The unity of cultures can teach us all a lot about who we are as a group instead of dividing one another, we as a brand focus on keeping the metal world alive, and passing the passion to younger generations.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Some of the spots I like to visit are local neighborhood restaurants and bars. I think a week can cover plenty in Los Angeles. For eating there are a variety of restaurants specially in Culver City, there is Akasha a farm to table cuisine, The Auld Fella has a great atmosphere and great beer selections. You can also migrate to Downtown Los Angeles and go to the Basement, where hand crafted cocktails are mind blowing. There are a few gardens one can check as well during the day some that I myself would have to check out. The drive to Manhattan Beach is worth it, there are plenty of eateries and bars one can have fun but do not miss the sunset with its cotton candy clouds. As a music buff, I always encourage friends to catch a show at The Whiskey A Go Go, The Rainbow, or The Roxy. Just some places to have good safe fun.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Jennifer Buonantony of Presspass La was the reason why I got into concert coverage and journalism. She offered me a guest photographer gig back in 2015 for the Mayhem fest and I realized I wanted to continue to do this. I asked her for tips and how I would be able to request such credentials- she helped me and the rest is history.

Website: www.rockbrary.com

Instagram: @rockbrary

Facebook: Jose Barrientos Rockbrary

Other: Podcast – Metal Medley on Spotify & Apple

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