“Heritage”
( Photo by Cameron Nunez )
Drumming To The Beat Of My Heritage -
Growing up in the San Gabriel Valley, in the city of South El Monte, California, my journey as a drummer was very deeply rooted by my Mexican heritage. While running through the diversity of Southern California, I discovered my passion for drumming, a journey that became both a celebration of my roots, and the driving force behind my musical career. I found myself immersed in the fusion of Mexican traditions, American influences, and this unique Chicano identity. The streets were always filled with the sounds of rancheras, hip-hop beats, and the rhythmic sounds of my own heritage. As i grew older, the support of my family instilled in me a deep pride for our Mexican roots. From family gatherings filled with traditional music and dance, to hearing stories of our past, I learned to appreciate the rich history that shaped my identity.As a Chicano kid, I discovered my passion for drumming through one sound. The sound of SANTANA. It resonated with my soul, creating a connection that went beyond a place I can even explain. EMOTION... thats the only thing I CAN say if I try. One note of Carlos' guitar gives me chills down my spine. The thunder of drums and percussion give me a ferocious energy as if I smashed 5 red bulls, yet it keeps me in a place of peace and inspiration. Doesn't make sense right? Or does it?
( Art Cruz Archives )
My journey as a drummer took me beyond the borders of South El Monte. East LA Rocker foo influences eventually led me to the heavy sound by these rednecks from Richmond, VA. Who would have thought? But that is the very entity of heavy metal. It's a universal language. It doesn't have a color of skin, a gender, a religion. It is an identity in itself. At the age of 16, Lamb Of God gave me the very same emotional connection Santana did. Some would say this is weird. Perhaps the same thing has happened to you once upon an Allman Brothers to Megadeth time. 
( Art Cruz Archive )
The "Heritage" Collection
Featuring designs by Ken Adams —
Designed by the same artistic genius behind the iconic album artwork of "Ashes Of The Wake", I wanted to create something EVERYONE can wear. A design that not only honors my culture, but also celebrates the union of my influential identities. 
( Artwork by Ken Adams )
The warbird inspired eagle represents the warrior attitude, courage and strength when rising from misfortunes.The snake represents the enemies of all around life.The nopal and prickly pear symbolize the defeated hearts of a warrior, as well as the challenges faced.The branches of oak and laurel represent badges of strength and victory.The ribbon located between the laurel and the oak, represents the union among Mexicans.
Being a chicano kid growing up in Los Angeles, shaped not only my identity, but also the trajectory of my career as a drummer and a person. Through the beats of my culture, I found a loud and powerful voice that continues to drive my musical journey. As I type this from my new home, in Richmond Muthafuckin Virgina, best believe I'll forever be drumming and living to the rhythm of my HERITAGE, and I invite others to join me in celebrating the beauty and diversity of the Mexican experience through the universal language, of music.- The Mexican Kid Behind The Drums For LAMB OF FUCKING GOD