Fly on the Wall

Photographs By Micah Hughey

Photographer Micah Hughey hopped in the car with Southern California post-punk trio Decline and documented their shows in San Francisco, California. Micah talks about how the band played at a BART station, being surrounded by creatives, and his sweet first taste of going on tour.

San Francisco, USA

Who is Decline?

Decline is a post-punk trio based out of Los Angeles California.

How did you meet them?

I met Jordan *Drummer* and Nolan *bassist* while they were on a surf session in Oceanside in Summer of 2020. I took portraits of Nolan and Jordan, then soon got invited to a show in Santa Clarita In November, of course I had to photograph the band.

How did you end up going with them to San Francisco?

They played in the Bay in July of 2021, at the Sutro Cave. Still sad that I couldn’t be there haha. This San Francisco trip is definitely one I did not want to miss and couldn’t pass up.

How did they get hooked up with shows up there?

The band had some friends who run diy shows in San Francisco, Willowhouse Records and then on the second day, they were hosted by Thrillhouse Records.

How was the drive up?

The drive was a groggy one, cramped in the back seat, mostly slept off and on.

Which shows did they play? Where?

The first show they played was at 16th Street BART Station which was thrown by Willowhouse Records, it was such a fitting gig for Decline. One of my favorites by them, just an awesome and unexpected spot for a show really. The second show was at Thrillhouse Records on Mission St.

Which shows were your favorites?

To be honest, I think my favorite show was the second one at Thrillhouse Records. Nolan, the bassist, hopped on vocals. It was just so rad to see Nolan up on the mic. Made a lad smile.

What did you do with the band when they weren't playing a show?

I photographed the band practicing of course, we explored the city, bar hopped and just enjoyed life in the Bay. Nolan also worked on some Decline patches, Aaron drew in his journal, and I was just a fly on the wall documenting.

What were you inspired by?

I think I was inspired most by the people I was surrounded by, especially the folks who run Willowhouse Records and their housemates. And of course Thrillhouse Records. Just all around creative people, it was quite exhilarating and just great company to be around.

Where did you stay?

I stayed with the band, crashed on some friends' couches.

Post trip reflections - how did you feel about photographing the band? What did you learn? What was your favorite part?

After every gig I shoot with this band, I’m always grateful to document Decline and the bond they have with their friends and just the bands overall talent with music. I think I learned what to expect if I ever go on tour, and I gotta say, I’m excited. My favorite part was jumping into the ice cold ocean in the morning near Sutro Bath House right when we reached the city.