The Longest War by Scorpion vs Tarantula
Scorpion vs. Tarantula: Embracing the Longest War for Change
Scorpion vs. Tarantula, a formidable force in the Phoenix, Arizona music scene, is a punk and hard rock band that has been captivating audiences since their formation in June 2008. With a lineup that includes the dynamic L. Hotshot on vocals, the electrifying Jay Bennett on guitar, bassist Terrance Neira, and drummer Michael “Cappy” Renfroe, the band has carved a niche for themselves, infusing their fierce sound with elements of garage punk and bar rock.
Recognized for their exhilarating live performances, Scorpion vs. Tarantula has amassed a dedicated following over the years, releasing several albums that showcase their high-energy style and commanding presence. Their most recent effort, The Longest War, released in 2025, stands as a testament to both their evolution as musicians and their commitment to meaningful themes.
The name of the album draws inspiration from Rebecca Solnit’s poignant essay, “The Longest War,” which contextualizes the ongoing fight for women’s rights, bodily autonomy, and freedom from male violence and sexism as a persistent struggle rather than isolated events. By adopting this title, the band amplifies the message of resilience and solidarity, aligning their music with a philosophy that seeks to challenge social injustices through empowering narratives.
For nearly two decades, Scorpion vs. Tarantula has maintained a vibrant presence in the Phoenix music scene, captivating audiences with their spirited performances and raw sound. L. Hotshot’s powerful stage presence often leaves concert-goers in awe, commanding attention with her ferocious energy and fearless delivery. Meanwhile, Bennett, Neira, and Renfroe collectively form a rhythm section that drives the band’s relentless sound, seamlessly intertwining intricate bass lines and powerful guitar riffs that propel their music forward.
In crafting The Longest War, the band opted for a more spontaneous and organic recording process. Collaborating with the talented producer Byron Filson at Villain Recording, they embraced the opportunity to record live over a series of quick sessions, allowing the raw energy of their performances to resonate throughout the album. The result is an energetic compilation of eleven tracks that not only capture the essence of their live shows but also resonate with the ethos of resilience and defiance against societal oppression.
Terrance Neira, who joined the band in 2019 after being a dedicated fan, contributes both bass and blistering guitar riffs, particularly highlighted on “I Can Handle the Blood.” For Neira, it was a natural transition from being in the crowd to being on the stage after taking over for original bassist Tana Youmans in 2019. Neira was previously known to guitarist Jay Bennett through a mutual Michigan connection as both band members hail from there originally.
Scorpion vs. Tarantula takes pride in creating an inclusive and fun atmosphere during performances, inviting fans to join them on a captivating journey. They embody a philosophy of entertainment with purpose, consistently pushing boundaries in their lyrics and musical themes.
Through The Longest War, Scorpion vs. Tarantula not only showcases their musical prowess but also promotes a powerful message influenced by the fight for social justice, illustrating that the war for equality is ongoing and requires collective resilience. As they continue to entertain and inspire, the band proves that they are more than just musicians—they are advocates for change, making their mark in the world of punk and hard rock with a distinct voice and purpose.