Dave “The Beast” Spitz

Dave “The Beast” Spitz

with War Pigs Rule the Rock ‘n’ Roll Jungle at Piper’s Pub

By Debbie Brautman | Photos: Larry Marano

On a rainy Friday night in March, at Piper’s Pub in Pompano Beach, delighted rock ‘n’ rollers were treated to a superb tribute to Black Sabbath with none other than bass player Dave “The Beast” Spitz, who had played with Black Sabbath from 1985-1987. His aggressive performance on bass guitar was both passionate and possessed. Music oozed out of every pore as he brought down the house. His stellar showmanship with his flowing ultra long black hair and rock star moves complement his unique style of playing bass. He stands out from the crowd, by not just playing bass, but punching it, beating it and pounding it with high velocity. The crowd was mesmerized as he was just an inflammable explosion of power with no guitar picks needed.  He’s not called “The Beast” for nothing. Music has always been in his blood and the man has talent galore. He has played with the band White Lion. He also played on two Great White albums and they wanted him to be a full-time member of the band, but Spitz decided to go to Law School instead. He is definitely one of the most rockin’ lawyers you will find. What an absolute treat to see him play at Piper’s with the entire band named War Pigs (named after the Black Sabbath song). You know it’s someone special when famed photographer Larry Marano shows up to take photos!

They sounded just like Sabbath and nailed the performance. Andy Mendez’s vocals were powerful and spot on, which was no easy feat with these difficult vocals to sing. Ozzy Osbourne and Ronnie James Dio would have been proud. Anthony Alfano played lead guitar and Steve Dewey played killer drums, and all of them were firing on all cylinders. The crowd roared and were boppin’ and a rockin.’ What a totally successful show, which included two sets. Between the sets, everyone sang “Happy Birthday” to the Concert Queen, Karen Tarte, who is a close friend of “Beastie”, as she calls him. What a great Birthday concert for the little rocker who loves and lives music. Some Black Sabbath selections played were “War Pigs,” “Iron Man,” “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath,” “Heaven and Hell,” “Lady Evil,” and “Snowblind.”  Solo Ozzy Osburne songs were also played, like “Bark At The Moon,” and “I Don’t Know.” Special Guest, Whiplash, loudly and proudly opened the show with their tribute to early Metallica. Piper’s Pub is the perfect venue to see these rockers. A great night was had by all!