If you ask Wilmington, California’s Autofil what kind of band they are, don’t expect a straightforward answer. One minute, they’re talking about indie rock. The next they’re referencing The Strokes, Incubus, synth-pop, post-hardcore, emo, metal, and even Backstreet Boys. Somewhere in the middle, somebody gets called, “Dad,” somebody forgets a bandmate’s name, and the conversation completely derails. Learn more about this band, their story and their unique sound.
Autofil isn’t trying to fit neatly into one genre. The band describes its sound as a blend of indie rock, alternative, emo, and rock influences, pulling inspiration from a wide range of artists and experiences. But what makes Autofil stand out isn’t just their music. It’s the story behind it.
Watch the full interview below:
How Autofil Got Its Name
The name Autofil wasn’t the result of months of brainstorming or a grand artistic vision.
While throwing ideas into a group chat, one of the members, Jesus aka “Potatoes,” noticed the “autofill” suggestion appear on their phone and mistakenly thought someone had suggested it as a band name. Nobody had.
Yet somehow the name stuck.
Over time, the band realized the name actually fit their identity perfectly. Their music draws from influences, styles, and experiences, filling in the blanks wherever creativity takes them.
A Second Chance at Life
At the heart of Autofil’s story is vocalist Kevin’s insane journey.
Several years ago, Kevin survived a shooting during an attempted robbery outside a Los Angeles brewery. He was shot multiple times and spent months recovering from life-threatening injuries.
The experience changed everything. Before the incident, Kevin admits he had largely stopped pursuing many of the dreams he once held. Music wasn’t a priority. Performing wasn’t a priority. He describes himself as a shy person who often held himself back.
Surviving forced him to look at life differently. That mindset now shapes much of Autofil’s music.
Many of the band’s lyrics encourage listeners to appreciate the present moment, stop living on autopilot, and make time for the things that truly matter.
Music for Working Adults
One of the most relatable aspects of Autofil’s songwriting is how grounded it feels. These aren’t songs written from the perspective of rock stars.
They’re written by working adults trying to balance careers, relationships, responsibilities, and creativity.
Songs like “PTO” reflect frustrations with work-life balance and the feeling that life moves faster every year.
As Kevin explains, one of his biggest fears is waking up one day and realizing he spent so much time working that he forgot to actually enjoy life.
It’s a theme that resonates with almost anyone juggling adult responsibilities.
Four Different Musical Worlds
Part of Autofil’s unique sound comes from the wildly different musical backgrounds each member brings to the table.
Their influences include:
- The Strokes
- Incubus
- Iron Maiden
- Megadeth
- Asking Alexandria
- Escape the Fate
- Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
- Slipknot
- Synth-pop
- Alternative rock
- Emo
- Post-hardcore
- Disco
Rather than forcing those influences into one box, Autofil embraces the variety and allows each song to develop naturally.
The “Dad” of the Band
Every band needs someone who keeps things organized. For Autofil, that’s bassist Geo.
While the rest of the band focuses on riffs, melodies, and vibes, Geo brings structure, music theory knowledge, and enough organization to help transform loose ideas into completed songs.
The band affectionately refers to him as “Dad.” Based on the interview, the nickname seems well-earned.
Looking Ahead
Autofil’s goals are refreshingly realistic. In the short term, they’re working on merchandise and continuing to build their audience.
Long term, they’d love to play larger shows, release more music, create community-driven events, and eventually tour. However, more than anything, they simply want people to connect with the music.
Increasingly, that’s happening, and fans are showing up. People are asking for merch. Crowds are growing. So, for a band built on friendship, persistence, and a shared love of making music, that’s a pretty good place to be.
“Do It Scared”
When asked what advice they’d give aspiring musicians, Jesus’ answer was simple:
“Do it scared.”
It’s advice that perfectly summarizes Autofil’s story. Whether it’s starting a band later in life, stepping on stage despite nerves, balancing music with careers, or rebuilding your life after unimaginable adversity, Autofil proves that you don’t have to feel ready to begin. Sometimes you just have to start and see where it takes you.
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About C² (Christy + Chris)
Concert lovers turned creators. Highlighting creators, bands, stories, sounds, and places you need to know.
Disarray Magazine is an independent media platform established in 2009, spotlighting punk, hardcore, alternative culture, live music, food, nightlife, and the chaos in between. Created by journalist Christy Buena, C² exists to document the bands, people, and moments shaping the scene.
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