Ministry of Gossip talks to Pete Wentz

We’ve learned that Black Cards, featuring bassist Pete Wentz, will make a surprise performance Friday night at Paul & Andre in Hollywood, as Details magazine brings its “Details @ Midnight” sessions to L.A. And though we hate to ruin a surprise, we love talking to Wentz — about his favorite L.A. venues and the particular sound that makes his son happiest.

What’s special about a surprise gig?

It can end up being either super disappointing or awesome for the audience. I have a friend who hated Foster the People and was dragged to their show. She had no idea who was performing and suddenly decided she loved the band. It’s the same principle when you’re opening for a bigger band. The crowd learns to love you, you just have to get in front of them.

“Details @ Midnight” is the perfect time for a rock star to shine, but you’re also a dad. How do you balance the two?

I feel every parent lives a double life. It’s the same on some levels — toddler vomit vs. adult vomit. Kidding! I plan my schedule around my son; he’s been all over the world already from Tokyo to Paris. I try to not ever go too many days without seeing him. On stage, I play music and at home I make fart noises and I’m in.

As someone who has lived here long enough to be an Angeleno, what are your favorite L.A. clubs and bars?

I like places like the Key Club, the Troubadour, the Whisky. One of my favorite venues is the Chain Reaction in Anaheim. This city has such a deep music club history, it’s really easy to find somewhere good to chill.

In the event of total crowd meltdown, what’s your go-to cover song?

We usually pull something from the Decaydance [Wentz’s record label] roster. Lately, it’s Cobra Starship’s “You Make Me Feel,” for sure. Bebe [Rexha, lead singer] has a great time singing that song and I honestly don’t think anyone doesn’t know the song by now.

matt.donnelly@latimes.com