SA Martinez talks about leaving L.A.

SA Martinez of the alt-rock band 311, in an e-mail exchange with LATimes.com’s Marcello Ambriz, explained his mixed emotions about putting his Los Angeles house up for sale.

“Although we love Los Angeles dearly, and Los Feliz in particular, we’re looking to move to Santa Barbara. We’re looking for a change of environment and S.B. suits us perfectly,” Martinez said. “When the band first moved out to Los Angeles, I would drive to a vinyl record shop located in Los Feliz and always took the boulevard. Every time I drove down the street my attention was averted to the Spanish colonials along the south side. Years later when I was in the market for a home, my jaw about dropped to the floor when, lo and behold, my absolute favorite was up for sale. I have so many memories of this house. I’ve written so many songs in this house and have felt nothing but love for it from day one. It has been a sanctuary and a dream come true. Although many musicians and artists have been through our doors over the years, the real star and center of attention has always been our home. A large part of me will always reside at this house in Los Feliz.”