Four Reasons to Get Down with Har Mar Superstar

For those unfamiliar with Sean Tillmann (a.k.a. Har Mar Superstar), consider yourself forewarned. This Minnesota native’s live show is not for the faint of heart. Known for his onstage antics, sexed-up lyrics, and bizarrely inflated self-confidence, Har Mar takes the idea of R&B music to a whole new level. But if you can get past the whole writhing, half-naked fat guy thing, he also promises a concert of epic musical proportions. This Saturday, March 7, Tillmann will make a very special stop at S.B.’s own Velvet Jones (423 State St.) at 8 p.m. For a little background, check out our Har Mar crash course below. And for tickets, visit clubmercy.com.

1] He’s Huge in Europe: After opening tours for The Strokes and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Har Mar finally found his following-in the U.K. dance circuit. While the guy can still pack clubs in the States, Har Mar is a bona fide, well, Superstar in England, scoring endorsement deals with Vladivar Vodka and Lynx deodorant. He’s also a permanent staple in the Wales-based New Wave band Neon Neon, alongside Boom Bip and Super Furry Animals’ Gruff Rhys.

2] He Can Rock a Pair of Briefs: Before the cash started rolling in, Har Mar was (and will continue to be) known for his “bold” clothing choices. A dead ringer for porn star Ron Jeremy (sans mustache), Har Mar loves his body-and he wants you to know it. In other words, you can expect Saturday’s show to end with a sweaty dude in his underpants. No joke.

3] He’s Sooo L.A. (Sort Of): Years of writing and performing have scored Har Mar more than his fair share of famous friends. On top of his Neon Neon gig, he’s been hired to write songs for Disney’s Cheetah Girls, he’s become besties with Justin Long and Keir O’Donnell, he’s hooked up (and laid tracks) with Australia’s Ben Lee, and he’s earned himself one killer backing band. Currently, the Har Mar setup includes The Strokes’ Fabrizio Moretti and former Distillers drummer Tony Bevilacqua on percussion.

4] He’s Got More Talent Than He Lets On: Sure, Har Mar’s shtick and star power will pack a bar, but it’s his tunes that will keep it full. A full-fledged master of the catchy beat and sample, Har Mar can also write a mean hook-not to mention bust some crazy flows. The subject matter is all in good fun (money, partying, ladies), but the wit will shock most casual listeners. Oh, and he can also play most of the instruments on stage.