Tune In, Turn On
By Doug Deutsch
The calendar may say September and perhaps summer is over as far as the “shoobies” are concerned, but for us lucky Shore residents, not only is this the best time of year weather-wise, but the live music schedule here continues to go full-speed ahead. Without further ado, here are a few music events worth your consideration.
Fred Armisen/Anchor Rock Club, Sept. 12: Former “Saturday Night Live” cast member Fred Armisen (pictured above) is coming to Anchor Rock Club this Tuesday night. If you are hoping to see his always hilarious comedic impressions, you haven’t really been following Armisen lately. Turns out he’s quite the accomplished drummer (something this writer got to experience first-hand when Armisen played drums with headliner Yo La Tengo at the Frantic City indie rock concert in AC last fall) as well as guitarist.
Armisen/SNL followers are probably well aware of his Emmy-winning television show from 2011-2018 on AMC, the witty, irreverent “Portlandia,” in which he co-starred with real-life musician, Carrie Brownstein.
“I think the key to creativity is embracing flaws and imperfections,” Armisen said in a recent interview on the ‘Drinks with Johnny’ podcast. “It’s in those moments of vulnerability that you find the most authentic and genuine expressions of art.”
If they’re lucky, Anchor Rock Club attendees might even get to hear Armisen perform the cool single, “Fist Fight,” from his onetime make-believe band Crisis of Conformity, which he debuted during the funny SNL sketch “Punk Band Reunion at the Wedding” in February of 2010.
“The single (‘Fist Fight’) is all me,” Fred told lifestyle/food blog, Husker Food. “Three instruments and vocals. The sketch was a love letter to my high school days.” See Fred Armisen’s “Comedy for Musicians but Everyone is Welcome,” with guest Annie Hart, 8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12. Admission is $35. See www.anchorrockclub.com.
Danzig/Ocean Casino’s Ovation Hall: is an American heavy metal band led by former Samhain and Misfits singer, Glenn Danzig. Formed in 1987 in Lodi, New Jersey, the group early on became a unique voice in the rock scene, playing a sort of bluesy, doom-laden metal with Danzig’s singing style reminiscent of Roy Orbison and Elvis Presley.
Danzig – who this year are celebrating the 35th anniversary of their self-titled 1988 release – could be considered the darker metal answer to another NJ musical native son, Bon Jovi. Also appearing: Behemoth, Twin Temple, and Midnight. The show is Saturday, Sept. 9 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $39-$79. See www.theoceanac.com.
History of Rock ‘n’ Roll/Lizzie Rose: Gather round boys and girls, school is in session at Lizzie Rose Music Hall in Tuckerton. The History of Rock and Roll Band takes their audience through a musical time warp of pop hits from the 50s and 60s and ends in the 70s. The audience revisits sock hop parties, the British Invasion and American pop hits, and then, disco and power pop. All of the songs are familiar and easy to sing along with while the band dresses in period clothes that represent each era which adds to the fun. Friday, Sept 8 at 7:30 p.m. Info: www.lizzierosemusic.com.
Other Places We’ll Be This Weekend: Downbeach Seafood Festival at Ski Beach in Ventnor (Sept. 9-10), go for the food (of course) but enjoy the cool bands as well… the official Necann After Party is at the Vue Rooftop atop The Claridge, Sept. 9, presented by 420 NJ Events… lastly, Cyril Neville, the only one of the iconic Neville Brothers still performing live, will perform at AtlantiCare’s Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point. The Tony Mart Presents show is Friday, Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. Free. Saving one of the best concerts of the year for last!
Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug also hàs experience writing for the one time shore-based weekly publication, Whoot! He also was a team member with Chip Braymes Advertising. Doug loves bicycling and aspires to bring the Blues to Atlantic City. He can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@gmail.com and www.facebook.com/dougdeutschpublicity.
