Jonathan Richman to perform at Lark Hall on October 23

By Tony Mastrianni.

Jonathan Richman visits the Albany venue in support of his most recent album, “Only Frozen Sky Anyway”

Proto-punk underground star Jonathan Richman formed the Modern Lovers in Boston in the early days of garage rock. They were made famous by their FM classic song, “Roadrunner.” Other notable members of the group were keyboard player Jerry Harrison, who later joined the Talking Heads, and David Robinson, who later went on to capture stardom with the Cars.

In the 1970s, the Modern Lovers recorded a series of demos with producer John Cale (formerly of the Velvet Underground). In addition to the seminal “Roadrunner,” “Pablo Picasso” was eventually released, by which time the original lineup had broken up. The album was strange for its time, featuring Velvets-influenced basic three-chord rock (“Roadrunner” – based on just two chords – is an homage to “Sister Ray” at a time when progressive glam rock was in vogue). Richman also recorded some songs with the famous rock producer, Kim Fowley, who produced the Runaways. The songs charted well in the UK, but all later versions of the Modern Lovers ultimately disbanded by 1988. Richman has been steadily releasing records (both solo and in short-lived bands) since, demonstrating significant avant-garde songwriting and performing skills.

A few decades later, Jonathan is embarking on an expansive tour to promote his latest album, “Only Frozen Sky Anyway” (Blue Arrow Records), the 18th album from the reinvented underground star and present-day balladeering singer/guitar player. Once considered a true rock and roll prodigy, Richman is now a richly textured and pioneering performer. The new record was previously met with success in digital form, and the album will be in stores beginning November 7th.

This is an opportunity to see this critically acclaimed icon on October 23rd at Lark Hall in Albany. It is sure to be a rare treat to see him in person after all these years!