Benefit to pay tribute to The Clash

This Saturday, The Rex Theatre will host an elaborate tribute to The Clash in which over two… This Saturday, The Rex Theatre will host an elaborate tribute to The Clash in which over two dozen musicians from various local groups will come together to perform a lively set of Clash material, largely as a nod to the band’s front man Joe Strummer, who died last December.

Rod Schwartz, member of local band 11th Hour and one of the primary planners of the tribute show, said, “Any of today’s bands, if they’re being honest, would admit to being influenced by The Clash.” Schwartz is joined by a number of participating local musicians in hoping that the evening will be an outlet for Clash fans to both pay their respects and enjoy themselves.

According to Schwartz, garnering local participation and enthusiasm for the event hasn’t been difficult at all. Among the musicians playing on Saturday are members of ATS, 11th Hour, The Spuds, Submachine, The Affordable Floors, The Cheats and many others.

The evening’s performances will be divided into two sets, each running an hour and a half. The first set will be a much-practiced, live run-through of The Clash’s classic album London Calling. The second set will feature selections from The Clash’s other records.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank and homeless shelter Bethlehem Haven. This, organizers feel, is in line with The Clash’s ideals.

With all the energy and passion poured into this event, it’s looking to be quite a lively celebration. As Schwartz puts it, it’ll be “Sort of like a big Irish wake – with guitar!”

The Clash tribute concert will be held at The Rex Theatre on the South Side on Sat., Oct. 4., at 8 p.m. Admission is $7.99 and will benefit the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank and Bethlehem Haven. Call (412) 381-6811 for more information.