Allen Aucoin spent two decades behind the kit for The Disco Biscuits, winning the gig in 2005 at a “Drum Off” competition in Atlantic City and going on to play more than 1,000 shows with the Philadelphia jamtronica band. Along the way, he earned a reputation as a “human drum machine.” He and the group parted ways in October 2025. Now he’s booking shows with J.WAIL, and the December 11 stop at Putnam Place brings him to Saratoga Springs alongside members of Twiddle and Eggy for a night built to run until 11:30 p.m.
About the Show
J.WAIL calls its events “Wailien” parties, and the framing tells you exactly what to expect: live electro-funk improvisation, crowd-driven energy, and themed attire that’s part of the deal. The project frames the experience as a celebration of joy and creative expression. J.WAIL positions itself behind a palette of electronic devices while a rotating live band handles the organic side, and for December 11, that band includes Aucoin on drums, Ryan Dempsey (Twiddle) on keys, Shira Elias (Cool Cool Cool), Mike Goodman (Eggy) on bass, and Lee Ross. Fans of Twiddle, Eggy, or the Biscuits scanning that lineup already know what they’re looking at. J.WAIL describes the aesthetic as “the pulsing of machines and pounding of concrete and steel in symphonic collage,” and builds toward what the artist calls elevating “mind, soul and booty.” The touring history spans hundreds of North American club, theater, and festival dates, with rotating collaborators that have included members of Prince, the Trey Anastasio Band, Leftover Salmon, STS9, and String Cheese Incident.
Opening the night is Capital Zen, a New England ensemble with a full comeback story. Founded in 2006, they spent years playing 50 to 75 shows annually across the region, shared stages with Goose, Lespecial, Aqueous, and Dopapod, and appeared at Camp Bisco, the Catskill Chill, and Disc Jam. They released four full-length albums and an EP before going on hiatus in 2018. Their 2025 return album, The Phoenix, blends funk, hip hop, blues, prog, and pop around themes of searching, loss, and rebirth. By September 2026, they were actively touring again, most recently at the Adirondack Independence Music Festival in Lake George.
Venue & Logistics
Putnam Place is a club at 63A Putnam Street in Saratoga Springs, a natural fit for a dance-floor night in the Capital Region. Doors open at 7:00 p.m.; the show runs 8:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. This is a 21+ event.
Tickets
Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 day of show. Buy tickets