Semi-fictional rock icons Spinal Tap are set to reunite in 2019, playing a one-off performance in honour of their 35th anniversary.
Back in 1984, the world of rock music changed completely following the release of Rob Reiner’s mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap.
Intended to be a parody of most rock and roll bands of the era, many artists – including Ozzy Osbourne and Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler – famously didn’t realise the film was fictitious, recognising many satirical incidents as fact.
Over the years, the film has garnered a strong cult following, and has even resulted in the once-fictitious band becoming a real entity. While the band would record a handful of albums over the years, and perform live on numerous occasions, the world has been rather Tap-less since 2009.
However, as Global News reports, that’s all about to change, with the group reuniting for their 35th anniversary next year.
Taking place as part of the 2019 Tribeca Film Festival in New York City, actors Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer will reprise their respective roles of Nigel Tufnel, David St. Hubbins, and Derek Smalls for the event.
“Spinal Tap proves there is definitely a fine line between stupid and clever,” explained Rob Reiner of the iconic film.
While the band will presumably be billed above the infamous Puppet Show for their performance, the event will also see cast members of famed ’90s film Reality Bites reuniting as well.
“From the heavy metal bands of the ‘80s to Generation X in the early ‘90s, This Is Spinal Tap and Reality Bites didn’t just capture the spirit of their respective times — they helped define them,” explained Tribeca Enterprises’ EVP Paula Weinstein.
“We’re excited to bring these two films back to the big screen for existing fans and also to introduce them to new audiences.”
In related Spinal Tap news, bassist Derek Smalls (portrayed by actor and comedian Harry Shearer) recently made his way back into the limelight, releasing his debut solo album – Smalls Change (Meditations Upon Ageing) – back in April.
While there’s no word yet as to whether the band continue to perform past this one-off gig, we can say with certainty that their prospective drummer is undoubtedly very nervous.
Check out Spinal Tap’s ‘Hell Hole’:
