The Late Joys: A Short History
The Late Joys specialize in music that is upbeat and danceable, featuring original tunes penned by guitarist/frontman Robi Polgar and a slew of energetic covers, mainly from the UK circa 1960 to the post-punk revolution, and beyond. The rhythm section is driven by drummer Matt Patterson and bassist Patrick Lopez.
The Late Joys perform mostly in Austin, and have seen the demise of most of the clubs who’s stages they’ve graced (through no fault of their own), including Texas Mist, Momo’s, Jovita’s, The Saxon Pub, The Butterfly Bar, The Carousel Lounge, The Parlor, The Dirty Dog Bar, cafes, elementary schools, friends’ living rooms and backyards, as well as Eeyore’s Birthday and the International Pop Overthrow (IPO) festivals. At more intimate venues, the band performs “unplugged,” where a premium is placed on the intricacies of the material as well as the band’s rapport with the audience.
The Late Joys began life as the house band in Robi’s play about working-class Wigan, England circa 1930 (based on George Orwell’s book, “The Road To Wigan Pier”). The play’s themes of history, social upheaval, community, working-class redemption and the never-ending struggle against moneyed interests and the political elite dovetailed with the band’s mix of ’60s British Invasion guitar jangle and creative well-spring that recall Britain’s late ’70s and early ’80s post-punk lyrics and sonic force. The result is a smart, energetic and entertaining act that’ll get your groove on whether you like to GoGo or Pogo.
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