Folkies With a Satirical Twist

What do Bill Clinton, Oliver North and Jesse Helms have in common?

The satirical folk quartet The Foremen answers this question and many more in its theatrical production, “The Foremen--Folk Heroes.”

The show is a throwback of sorts, bringing together folk and theater music with a twist of satirical humor. The four-member group performs original material that is reminiscent of bands such as the Kingston Trio, the Limelighters and the Nutty Wanderers, who made their way on to the musical scene three decades ago.

But they go beyond the folkies of yesteryear, combining harmony and lyrics based on contemporary material from newspapers to take satirical jabs.

In addition to political targets, topics include the battle of the sexes, homelessness, struggles of the working class and international events, with titles such as “Saddam Shame.”

“People appreciate the opportunity to listen with both ears,” said troupe leader Roy Zimmerman, a resident of Pacific Palisades. “Once they have heard a little of what we do, the response is immediate and very rewarding.”

Zimmerman, who earned a degree in musical composition from San Jose State University, came up with the idea of performing satire several years ago when he found a disc called “Come Along With the Wayfarers” while rummaging through a 99-cent record bin.

“It struck me so funny that four fraternity brothers were singing about life,” Zimmerman said. “I thought this would be a great vehicle for me to write satirical material.”

It gave him the idea to form his own group, which includes tenor Kenny Rhodes, bassist Andy Corwin and guitarist Doug Whitney. During the last two years, the quartet has performed at galleries, coffeehouses and other intimate venues across the Westside.

The group’s popularity has spread to the airwaves. Some of their songs have been featured on radio programs such as the nationally syndicated “Dr. Demento” and the “Jim Hightower Show” on KMPC.

But to really understand the group’s humor, it’s best to attend a live performance.

“They are the only ones doing (this type of) satire,” said Chuck Harter, who recently attended a performance. “Their songs are right on the money and the singing is great.”

The Foremen presents “Folk Heroes” at Cafe Luna, 665 N. Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood, through June 30. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays and 5 p.m. Sundays (no Saturday show). Tickets are $15 or $12 for a group of six or more. Credit card reservations can be made by calling (310) 652-0611. For all other reservations, call (310) 471-3979.