American comedian and former punk rocker Joe Sib is set to make his hotly anticipated Edinburgh Fringe debut this summer with California Calling – a riotous, heartfelt and nostalgia-fuelled journey through his teenage years in 1980s suburban California.
Described by Foo Fighters’ Chris Shiflett as a show that “hits home for anyone that came of age in the 80s – and if you didn’t, you’ll wish you did,” California Calling lands at Gilded Balloon’s Appleton Tower – Pip Room with its unique mix of stand-up, storytelling and punk rock spirit.
Sib – who once shared stages with Metallica, The Ramones and Social Distortion – charts his evolution from a skateboarding teen and frontman of cult bands WAX and 22 Jacks, to co-founder of acclaimed indie label SideOneDummy Records, working with the likes of Flogging Molly and Gogol Bordello.
At the heart of California Calling is one pivotal day that changed everything – and the show moves from the chaos of underground gigs and suburban rebellion to the quieter revelations of adult life, fatherhood, and the enduring power of family. As the Los Angeles Times put it: “The abiding takeaway from California Calling is that rush of youthful discovery doesn’t have to dissipate with adult life.”
Known for his high-octane delivery and quick-fire humour, Sib’s set weaves in sharp observations, personal anecdotes and a killer soundtrack of 80s nostalgia, offering an unforgettable hour for anyone who ever felt like an outsider chasing something bigger.
Sib, who toured globally with comedy legend Jim Breuer as Metallica’s opening act, has also released comedy specials with Drybar and 800 Pound Gorilla. Now, with California Calling, he invites audiences to laugh, reflect and rock out in equal measure.
Joe Sib: California Calling – A Story of Growing Up Punk Rock
? Gilded Balloon @ Appleton Tower – Pip Room
? Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025, 30th July – 24th August (not 11th), 9:00pm
? Tickets available via edfringe.com
