In honor of Manhattan comedy journal The Lowbrow Reader’s new issue, Housing Works Bookstore hosted The Lowbrow Reader Variety Hour last night. Variety was indeed the key: the event featured musical performances, a reading, and a comedy routine.

The evening commenced with oddball musician Peter Stampfel and the Ether Frolic Mob. The farcical performance of the eponymous Stampfel, who howled and grimaced comically while playing souring notes throughout the set, made one wonder if Christopher Guest was filming a sequel for A Mighty Wind from somewhere in the back. Read More »