HOTTEST ROCKERS 2010: Claire Garza

Claire Garza may not be a rock star but she definitely has the look and the attitude. Her pitch black locks and porcelain skin make her a dead ringer for the sexy Fairuza Balk. “I look exactly like her and I get that everyday I work,” said Garza about the comparison. “I also get Kat Von D.” And that’s not surprising considering her skin is covered with a rainbow of ink. Garza also has six piercings “that you can see,” she said. But there’s more to the self-called “mixologist” than meets the eye. She’s also a student at the University of Texas Pan American majoring in biology and chemistry. And if you guys out there are looking to buy her a drink, make sure you get her Jack Daniels, straight up.

• NAME: Claire Garza
• AGE: 23
• HOMETOWN Edinburg
• LIVES IN Brownsville
• DAY JOB Student by day at UTPA and bartender by night at Smokin’ Aces
• ROCKSTAR CONNECTION She’s a bartender at Smokin’ Aces, one of McAllen’s most important rock venues. The bar has welcomed some of the best and baddest metal bands from all over the country including Dying Fetus, Divine Heresy, Smile Empty Soul and L.A. Guns. Garza said she’s bartended for a bevy of metal rockers but her favorite night was when she hung out for shots and pizza with OTEP.

What’s the best concert you’ve ever seen and why?

Korn, because I was right in the front. I got smashed and everything. I came out with bruises and other people’s hair all over me but it was worth it.

If you want to catch the opposite sexes’ attention, what’s your first move?

I just walk up to him and tell him ‘hey what’s up.’ Usually I’m the one that walks up to him.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live and why?

For some reason, everyone thinks this is weird, but I want to live in Alaska. They pay you to live there and it’s secluded away from everything.

What would your theme song be?

“Black Magic Woman” by Carlos Santana

How do you feel about public displays of affection?

It’s gross, take it home.

What’s your favorite Halloween costume you’ve ever worn?

One year I didn’t have anything to wear and it was last minute, so I just put a brown towel around me and I had my septum peirced and put horns in it and called my bullshit.

Three favorite bands?

Pantera, Lamb of God, Metallica

Do you believe in love at first sight?

No. 'Cause it’s lust at first sight.

Who inspires you the most?

My mother, because she’s a single mom and put up with me for so long.

Name one unique talent you have that most people don’t know about?

I can twist my elbow around. I can do the worm. It’s kind of embarrassing.

If you could have one night (date) with any celebrity, who would it be?

I’d want to hang out with Hugh Hefner — he seems like someone fun to hang out with.