The suspenders are snapping, the glasses are taped, and the dance floor is ready. The Spazmatics, known coast to coast as the ultimate 1980s tribute band, are set to electrify Powerhouse this Saturday night, July 19, with a high-energy show that’s part concert, part time machine, and all-out party.
With geek-chic style and flawless musicianship, The Spazmatics have carved a national reputation as the definitive ‘80s experience. Their shows are not just performances—they’re interactive productions complete with choreography, crowd sing-alongs, and anthems that defined a generation. Whether it’s Devo’s “Whip It,” Duran Duran’s “Hungry Like the Wolf,” or Thomas Dolby’s “She Blinded Me With Science,” every song is dialed in with incredible precision and infectious energy.
The Spazmatics were “formed” in the fictional spring of 1983 after a debate over String Theory between physics teacher Kevin Stigwood and a student led to Stigwood reluctantly assembling a band. With the help of electronics teacher Sydney Balderman, the group made their debut at a high school basketball halftime show—and the rest is hilariously nerdy legend. Behind the origin story, however, is a well-oiled performance brand: The Spazmatics are a multi-city chain band developed by Perfect World Entertainment, with touring casts performing nationwide.
From Los Angeles to Nashville and now back in Folsom, each Spazmatics lineup is handpicked to recreate the same dazzling, over-the-top celebration of the decade that gave us big hair, synthesizers, and singalong choruses. Their shows channel the spirit of 1980s pop culture, calling to mind iconic movies like The Breakfast Club, Back to the Future, and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
What sets The Spazmatics apart is their devotion to showmanship. These aren’t just covers—they’re fully staged recreations of the era’s biggest musical moments, fused with humor, crowd interaction, and impeccable detail. The band’s fans range from those who lived the 80s to Gen Z newcomers discovering the magic of vintage MTV vibes. It’s a multigenerational celebration where everyone knows the words, and no one stays seated.
Before The Spazmatics take the late-night stage at 10 p.m., Saturday at Powerhouse kicks off with the Saturday Afternoon Dance Party featuring Los Cochinos, a dynamic Latin Rock and Soul band with roots in the Bay Area and a growing international following. Los Cochinos bring their Santana-style originals and crowd-pleasing covers to life with a seasoned group of musicians that include standout talents like guitarist Alfonso Portillo and saxophonist Ric Alexander of Tony! Toni! Toné!
The weekend wraps up Sunday, July 20, with Powerhouse of Blues featuring the Carmen Ratti Band. With performances that combine masterful blues guitar, soulful vocals, and tight grooves, Ratti’s group has become a favorite in the Northern California blues circuit. Their high-energy live show is the perfect way to wind down a music-packed weekend in Historic Folsom.
All shows at Powerhouse are 21 and over. For tickets and more details, visit www.powerhousepub.com.
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