The Band
We’re The Pilot Holes, an alt rock surf punk band out of Orange County, California. We started the way most good bands do, friends down the street, guitars in a garage, and way too much volume for the neighborhood.
Our sound is bright guitars, driving bass, loud drums, and hooks that hit like sunlight off the water, then turn sharp when you least expect it. It’s music for locals, outsiders, wave chasers, and anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t fit where they were “supposed” to.
If you’ve got our records on, you’re already part of the crew. If you’re new here, hit play and start with Stoke 'N Swell and move onto Locals Only. We’ll meet you in the chorus.
Blake Mann | Vocals & Rhythm Guitar
I’m Blake. I sing, write most of the words, and I’m usually the one saying “one more take” when everyone’s starving.
I grew up surfing the OC coast and writing songs in my parents’ garage. Somehow we’re still in that same garage rehearsing, turning riffs into choruses, and every once in a while making the neighbors regret moving here. If there’s a backyard show happening, it probably started as “just a few friends” and turned into insanity.
Best case scenario, I catch a wave before soundcheck and show up with a notebook full of hooks. Worst case scenario, I’m writing lyrics on receipts and pretending I hate attention.
Tyler Schulz | Guitar Bass & Backing Vocals
Tyler here. I play guitar, I jump on bass when we need it, and I do my best to keep Blake from naming songs something unprintable.
Blake and I grew up down the street from each other. We’ve been swapping surf spots and trading riffs since middle school, so half our “band practice” is just muscle memory at this point. I’m the guy who will roast you for being late, then spend ten minutes tuning by ear like it’s a spiritual practice.
If The Pilot Holes ever ends, I swear I’m becoming a banker or something equally soul crushing. Until then, you’ll find me at rehearsal, at the beach, or inhaling a burrito like it’s my job.
Bill Kallaway Jr. | Drums
I’m Bill. I hit things for a living and try to keep these two from flying off the road.
I’m the calm one in the band, which is mostly because someone has to be. Blake and Tyler chase waves, I’m usually on a skateboard, or disappearing on a solo trip with a backpack and a playlist. Nothing really rattles me. Not broken sticks, not late nights, not Tyler’s jokes, not the fact that we somehow always start setting up five minutes before we’re supposed to play.
I like tight drums, loud guitars, and iced coffee. Show up, lock in, make it feel good. That’s the whole thing.