Starting with his Granite Hills High band Pistola, Cory Stier went on to play drums in Weatherbox, Mrs. Magician, and the Cults. This month marks his seventh year booking the Soda Bar.

Where’s the best place to hang with other music types after a show?

“The Whistle Stop, Live Wire, or Bar Pink if it’s not the weekend... because of the line around the block.”

In seven years of Soda, which local band most surprised you?

“The Gloomies totally blew me away.”

You’ve done “Soda Bar Presents” shows everywhere. What’s your favorite off-site venue?

“Probably The Irenic. I love the balcony. I think it has the best sound.”

Where do you tell touring rockers to go for food?

“Luigi’s in North Park or Golden Hill.”

And if you’re hungry after a show?

“Aliberto’s near 5th and Market.”

Favorite local drummer?

“Mario Rubalcaba [Earthless, Rocket From the Crypt, Hot Snakes] or Andrew Montoya [the Sess, the Beaters]. My favorite drummer from way back: Ringo Starr. Talk about doing something with nothing.”

Which local band got you into all this?

“Hot Snakes and Rocket From the Crypt. I totally blame them.”

Memorable early live show?

“My dad took me to Spinal Tap at Humphrey’s when I was, I think, in eighth grade. I had never seen the movie.”

Memorable after-show party?

“Mrs. Magician was on tour with the Night Marchers. After a show in Philly, [Night Marchers frontman] John Reis led this all-night gambling ring. Our guitarist Tommy Garcia lost all his money for the whole tour that night.”

More from SDReader

• More stories by Ken Leighton
• Year of the Snakes — Hot ones — Jan. 24, 2018
• John "Swami" Reis produces compilation record of 22 San Diego bands — May 11, 2016
• The Sess' seven-year itch — Dec. 23, 2015
• Captain Beyond DNA — Feb. 4, 2015
• Night Marchers — Dec. 30, 2009