Isolation band ignites passion at PZA

BY Aprile McKinnon

The PZA restaurant in the Canyon Lake Town Center is renowned for its tradition of featuring local entertainment at its venue. From karaoke to bands, comedy, bunco, sing-alongs, and trivia, the restaurant offers a diverse range of options to cater to everyone‘s tastes.

Joseph Luna and Shannon Luna, the owners, have extended their support to young entertainers, inspired by their 10-year-old son‘s profound love for music and singing.

A band formed by a group of teenagers, who go by the name “Isolate,” found solace and deeper involvement in music during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, making their band name highly fitting. The group took PZA’s stage Friday night and played to an audience who loved their music.

At the age of 18, my son Shaun McKinnon, a self-taught guitarist and lead vocalist, follows in his parents‘ footsteps, having inherited our passion for music and entrepreneurial spirit.

Having sung since childhood, Shaun developed an old soul, influenced by the timeless legends of music. Residing in Canyon Lake since the age of 8, his passion for music fueled his desire to explore further avenues.

Shaun and I were grateful for the opportunity to perform recently as an opening act for a Concerts at the Lodge Series concert. The opportunity only intensified Shaun‘s love for entertaining. Consequently, Shaun teamed up with his long-time friend Dylan Barnum and embarked on a musical journey.

Isolate, a new band formed from their love of learning music through the pandemic, poses during a recent practice session. They are, from left, Parker Ghent, Shaun McKinnon, Sean Steger and Dylan Barnum.Photo by Aprile DeAnne McKinnon

Sixteen-year-old Dylan, also a self-taught guitarist, grew up in a household immersed in music, driven by his parents‘ deep appreciation for the art form.

“I love playing guitar, hanging out with my friends, and performing,” Dylan said.

Dylan’s on-stage energy and radiant smile set him apart from other entertainers as he easily captivates the audience. Diligently honing his skills, Dylan aspires to pursue music with even greater devotion.

Parker Ghent, an 18-year-old multi-instrumentalist, contributes his incredible bass-playing talents to the band. Parker graduated from Temescal Canyon High School where he and the band’s drummer Sean Steger and Dylan were part of the jazz band. Parker‘s musical journey began with the trombone at the age of 10. During the quarantine of 2020, he transitioned to the bass guitar. Parker envisions continuous musical growth, hoping the band will explore original compositions.

Soon to be 17, Sean‘s musical ventures commenced during middle school where he initially explored the trumpet before embracing the drums as his primary instrument. Raised by supportive parents, Sean draws inspiration from his father‘s musical background. Reflecting on his favorite performance, he reminisced about his freshman year in high school when he showcased his skills on Lake Elsinore‘s Main Street during a winter festival. Sean‘s affinity for percussion extends beyond the drums, and he eagerly looks forward to further musical endeavors.

Isolate experienced an enthusiastic and supportive crowd during its performance Friday night at PZA, which only serves to encourage  the teenagers to continue pursuing their musical aspirations.

The band showcases an eclectic repertoire, including songs from Sublime, Foo Fighters, Black Sabbath, Deftones, Nirvana, Green Day, and more. PZA‘s willingness to provide the band with a platform has already led to three additional bookings, reflecting the band‘s commitment to their music.

“Isolate” was born out of the boys‘ dedication to their passions during the pandemic’s isolating times. Now, they are determined to take their music seriously and see where it leads them.