In this episode, Travis and Danny sit down with Darren Robinson, founding guitarist of Phantom Planet, best known for "California"—the track that became the iconic, defining theme song for the hit TV series The O.C.
Darren shares how he picked up guitar at 11, how the band took shape, and why he’s always felt more at home out of the spotlight.
The conversation moves from music memories to 80s and 90s childhood nostalgia, with Darren, Travis, and Danny comparing notes on analog childhoods, freedom, toy commercials, Nintendo, boredom, and life before phones and social media.
The three also give their top three things they wish kids and teens could experience now like they did. Darren also shares what Phantom Planet is up to now, including new music and upcoming shows.
Phantom Planet's website:
https://www.phantompla.net
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/phantomplanet/
Danny's band Wasperjaws:
https://wasperjaws.hearnow.com
In this episode:
Darren’s early guitar lessons and the unexpected start of his musical journey
Meeting Jason Schwartzman and the band’s first steps toward becoming Phantom Planet
The band’s early Los Angeles shows and the manager who saw their potential
Darren’s first reaction to hearing “California” as a demo
Growing up around Sunset Boulevard, hair metal, and influential guitarists like Slash
What it meant to have an analog childhood—and how phones and social media changed things
Garbage Pail Kids, He-Man, skateboarding, bike rides, and the freedom of being out with friends
Nintendo memories, including Super Mario Bros. and Duck Hunt
Songs that made a lasting impression, from “Money for Nothing” to “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
What Darren says kids today might be missing: boredom, anticipation, privacy, and being present
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