Nightwatch notes: Even punks need a laugh

By Tom Horgen, Star Tribune

Last update: October 4, 2007 - 4:57 PM

Everyone's favorite punk rock club, the Triple Rock, is doing something a little different Saturday. Paul F. Tompkins, a Philly comic who's a regular on VH1's "Best Week Ever" and has written for "The Daily Show" and "Mr. Show," is touring the country behind his new comedy album, "Impersonal." Of course, being the Triple Rock, there will be a bit of music, too, from opener Mike Gunther. Check out Tompkins' MySpace page to watch stand-up clips about terrifying dogs and text messaging (MySpace.com/paulftompkins). Funny stuff. (9 p.m. Sat., 629 Cedar Av. S., Mpls. $12. 612-333-7499. www.triplerocksocialclub.com)

Even more comedy

Here's a good reason to check out the amazing new Mystic Lake concert hall without going broke. The cast of comics from last season's NBC show "Last Comic Standing," including winner Jon Reep, is hitting the road. The $27 ticket for their show seems pretty reasonable compared with tickets for Sinbad or Don Rickles later this year, which run $50-$65. Oh, and try the buffet while you're out there. (7:30 p.m. Thu., Mystic Lake, 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd., Prior Lake. 952-496-6563. www.mysticlake.com)

Music you don't have to steal

Nothing makes a music lover smile like free music. A new Twin Cities label, Limerick Records, is hoping to get the attention of local music fans with its roster of bands willing to give their music away. The bands include indie rockers Gazillion, Sonicate and Capitol Jay. You can download songs as well as album art at LimerickRecords.com. The first release is a split EP between two of the bands. How will they make money? They're hoping fans will come out to shows and buy some merch. The label celebrates its launch with a party next week. (7 p.m. Thu., Ritz Theater, 345 13th Av. NE., Mpls. $5, All ages. www.ritztheaterfoundation.org)