The interview location set by Lee was not their studio or a favorite cafe but rather a warehouse-lined street on the eastern edge of Downtown LA. The walls were covered in graffiti, and bikers performed tricks nearby̶-clear indicators of this area’s importance to LA’s street culture.
When Spielman and Stevenson arrived, they were sporting G-SHOCK watches̶Spielman wearing a DW-5600UE and Stevenson a DW-5600UBB. The watches, blending durability with a rugged aesthetic, fit seamlessly into their simple yet tough streetwear style. "I've always noticed G-SHOCK being involved in the background throughout the years, whether in music or art," Spielman reflected. Stevenson added, "When I was a kid, it was one of the first watches I ever got. I remember playing with the stopwatch a lot. For me, it’s a nostalgic thing." This conversation naturally transitioned to the broader concept of street culture. "Skateboarding, music, and graffiti-they are like an endless fountain of energy. They shaped my taste in art, my moral compass, and my approach to life," Spielman explained. He emphasized that street culture isn't about individual creation; rather, it’s about interacting with people, stepping outside, and actively participating. "That connection is what street culture is. It's why Trash Talk and Babylon LA exist." Growing up, he found solace in live venues and creative spaces, escaping school and home life. Now, he believes it’s his responsibility to ensure such spaces remain available for the next generation. "To keep culture alive, we must create physical spaces where people can connect and create," he said.

The three young creatives who joined us for the interview look up to Spielman and Stevenson as mentors. While their style is rooted in skate culture, their choice of all-black outfits with a subtle punk edge and the way they skate in Dr. Martens reflect both their originality and a deep respect for Babylon LA. How do Spielman and Stevenson bring together such creative young individuals, and how do they support them?
Spielman elaborated on their ethos: "If you build it, they’ll come. We naturally attract young people who share our vision. The internet makes connections easier, but having a physical space to meet and create is more important than ever." Stevenson added, "It’s crucial to lower barriers to entry. We don’t charge participation fees or force purchases. Instead, we create an inviting space where young people can naturally grow."
This aligns with how G-SHOCK supports passionate individuals Similarly, Spielman and Stevenson. ensure that young creatives keep their momentum. Their message -"Be yourself and do what feels right"-is at the core of Babylon LA’s identity.

The youth involved in Babylon LA embody a true skater spirit. As they roll tirelessly through the streets, they reflect the free-spirited energy of LA.

Joey (pictured left), Fisher (pictured center), and Anthony (pictured right) are three key figures in the Babylon LA youth community. Fisher, the most senior of the three, has built his own apparel brand and serves as a mentor to younger members. Joey, associated with KING SKATEBOARDS, and Anthony, a rider for ZERO SKATEBOARDS, both use Babylon LA as a hub for creative exchange and mutual growth.

Fueling Creativity
Creating a Space Where Everyone Thrives

The three youth members central to Babylon LA̶Fisher, Joey, and Anthony̶each bring their own originality, working as skaters, designers, and models. Fisher, who has been with Babylon LA the longest, also worked as a store staff member. He reflected on the space’s deeper meaning:
"Babylon LA is not just a community̶it’s a big family. It doesn’t just focus on recognition but truly values and supports the people and culture that matter. Lee and Garrett look out for those who are often overlooked. They are role models to us," Fisher explained. "In LA, everything is free̶skating, graffiti, creating. But that freedom comes with risk. We have to manage ourselves, and just like Lee and Garrett did for us, we have to be the ones to help our families, kids, and friends when they need us. Age doesn’t make you an adult̶your mindset does. Unlike most skate communities, where only one person succeeds and others get left behind, Babylon LA ensures that if you put in the work, everyone has a chance to rise together. That’s what I appreciate most and want to share with more people," he added.
Expressing oneself through street culture requires resilience, especially in a city like Los Angeles, where unpredictability is a constant. That’s why having a supportive community and mentors who can guide the way is crucial. Pursuing one’s style while uplifting those around them is key, and the passionate, thoughtful approach taken by the Babylon LA community serves as an inspiring model.

Babylon LA Expands
Tokyo’s New Creative Playground

Spielman and Stevenson describe Tokyo as their second home, having formed deep connections through Japan’s hardcore punk scene.
Lee explained, "The Japanese community resonates with our projects. It’s important for us to add to Tokyo’s scene rather than just take from it."
Babylon TYO serves as a cultural bridge, showcasing collaborations with artists like Verdy and Kosuke Kawamura, along with signature skate decks from Yuto Horigome.
The Tokyo space reflects their love for Japanese culture, featuring a renovated Harajuku house with a Japanese garden. Its grand opening featured a performance by Earl Sweatshirt, a member of Tyler, the Creator’s collective, Odd Future, solidifying its status as a hub for global street culture. Future events will continue fostering collaboration between LA and Tokyo’s creative communities.

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Babylon LA

Founded by Trash Talk’s vocalist Lee Spielman (pictured left) and guitarist Garrett Stevenson (pictured right), Babylon LA is more than an apparel brand. It merges punk, skate, and graffiti cultures, earning a devoted following. Under the theme "forever evolving," Spielman and Stevenson’s activities go beyond fashion, drawing young people eager to express themselves.

Instagram. @babylon.la

Babylon TYO

Babylon TYO is led by Kei Hashimoto, known for his work with Car Service, alongside a team that includes models and creatives. The store embodies a relaxed LA-style atmosphere where visitors can shop freely. In addition to collaborations with Japanese artists, Babylon TYO also carries Babylon LA items and Tokyo-exclusive pieces.

Instagram. @babylon.tyo