Axel Martinez has been part of Portland's underground music scene for over a decade, organizing events that blend music, art, and radical self-expression. His transition into reviewing lifestyle venues comes from recognizing the parallels between authentic music scenes and authentic sexual communities.

Axel brings a DIY, punk-rock sensibility to his reviews—he has zero tolerance for pretension but infinite respect for venues that genuinely serve their communities. He's visited 65+ venues across the West Coast and specializes in identifying spaces with real grassroots energy versus corporate knockoffs.

His reviews focus on atmosphere, authenticity, and whether a space actually delivers on its promises. Axel believes the best venues, like the best underground shows, create magic through attention to detail and genuine care for their community.