By Vlad T, Rock At Night Detroit, and Chyrisse Tabone, Rock At Night Tampa
Live Review: Kurt Deimer – OCC Roadhouse, Clearwater, Florida – March 27, 2026
On March 27, 2026, Kurt Deimer premiered his horror-comedy film Scared to Death at the OCC Roadhouse in Clearwater, Florida, in an event presented by Tampa Bay’s legendary rock station 98ROCK. Radio personalities from the station, joined by Hollywood movie reviewer Brian Sebastian, emceed the evening, setting the stage for what turned out to be a memorable night of film and live music.
The screening received an enthusiastic reception from the packed crowd. Immediately following the film, Deimer and his band took the stage to perform a high-octane set featuring his discography as well as tracks from his forthcoming sophomore album, A Grog Is Born, due May 8, 2026, via Bald Man Records.
Rock At Night has been following Deimer since 2023, when he toured with Tesla, and it was a genuine thrill to catch him in such an intimate setting in Florida. His music has always stood out for its relentlessly upbeat, positive spirit, which came through powerfully during this performance.
The audience was a refreshing mix of Gen Xers and teens, turning the night into a true family affair. From the moment the band launched into “Dance,” the energy in the room was infectious. Standing in the front row, I found myself dancing nonstop, feeling the kind of pure, youthful excitement I hadn’t experienced at a show in years.
Deimer proved to be a charismatic and tireless frontman. He pranced across the stage, stepped onto platforms, squatted down near the edge to connect with fans, and delivered every song with boundless energy. His guitarists and bassist matched his enthusiasm, moving fluidly around the stage while providing strong harmonies.
Highlights included “In Deep,” which Deimer proudly noted is in regular rotation on Orlando’s 101.1 WJRR, and the title track “Scared to Death,” as featured in the film. Both songs have stayed on repeat in my car for the past week. Videos for “Burn Together,” featuring Queensrÿche legend Geoff Tate, and “Fight,” a Dystopian-themed video, were shown on a back screen. Deimer also treated the crowd to a spirited cover of Pink Floyd’s “Have a Cigar,” introducing it as one of his breakthrough moments, as well as the reflective “Only Time Will Tell.”
Throughout the set, Deimer repeatedly emphasized his core message: “I’m all about peace and love.” That positive ethos resonated deeply. During slower, more atmospheric moments, fans held their phones high in flashlight mode, swaying together, while upbeat tracks kept arms waving and bodies moving.
With laser lights and striking red graphic panels, the performance was more than just music — it was an all-out, entertaining show that felt truly arena-worthy. Everyone in attendance was in for a treat, and the buzz continued afterward at the merch booth, where Deimer graciously signed autographs and posed for selfies. He truly appreciates his fans and gives 100% every time he takes the stage. Leaving the venue, you feel genuinely uplifted. I know I did.
Kurt Deimer commands the stage with natural charisma and delivers music that genuinely lifts the spirit. Whether you’re there for the rock, the horror-comedy, or simply a night of feel-good energy, he delivers on all fronts. If A Grog Is Born captures even half of the live electricity witnessed in Clearwater, it’s going to be one of the most enjoyable rock releases of 2026.
Highly recommended—catch him live if you get the chance.
PHOTO GALLERY
SOCIAL MEDIA
I grew up in a household full of rock music, studied journalism in college, and then became a scientist.Although my science career has served me well, music has always played a major role in my life. I grew up reading "Creem" magazine; I play several musical instruments as a "hobby";and it seems a camera has always been in my hand. Now, I am combining what I love the most--music and photography--serving as editor of Rock At Night. I travel between the US and UK seeking my dream! My motto: life is short...no regrets. Chyrisse
