By Benjamin Joe

Area 54, also known as the Caffe at Amy’s, is at it again with another prestigious — or notorious — band traveling to the City of Good Neighbors on Friday (Aug. 29).

The Murder Junkies were the final backing band for GG Allin, the legendarily abusive and self-abusive punk rocker. He died from a heroin overdose in 1993. Bands on the same bill as the Murder Junkies say they are excited by the prospect of playing with these legendary players.

Steve Lexer of the band Main Breaker booked the show, which will start at 7 p.m. Admission is $15.

“We are super stoked to play with them,” Lexer said. “All three of us are big GG Allin fans so this is really cool.

“This will be the second time I personally have booked a former GG Allin backing band in Buffalo. I brought Psycho here years ago, as well.”

Pure Heel, another local favorite who will be playing the Main Street diner and show venue, said, “Pure Heel is thrilled to be a part of the trifecta of scum playing at Amy’s Place on August 29^th. We can only hope that the ghost of GG Allin will be looking down upon us with shit-stained tears of joy in his eyes on what will be his 69^th birthday.”

Allin died on June 28, 1993, in New York City. He was born in Vermont and played in many different bands, the Murder Junkies being the last and which included Dee Dee Ramone for a short time.

Allin was known for his stage presence and activities, including defecating on stage and attacking audience members. His alleged offstage behavior led to a term in prison in 1989 with Allin pleading no contest to the charge of assault after a show at the University of Michigan.

After his death, his band, including his older brother Merle, continued to use the name and tour worldwide. They play a set of Allin’s songs, as well as new work.

To honor the date, Lexer said Main Breaker will be playing, “A solid mix of older tunes with newer ones and one we’ve never played live before.”

Doors open at 7 p.m. and GrimeTime will be spinning vinyl during breaks.

Pure Heel performing. Contributed image.