As I approach my 97th year on this planet, it gets more dismaying every time a conversation with a Young Person about music results in a comment like, "I've actually never heard of Tears for Fears" or "Who's Merle Haggard?"

That's, ah, the Young Person talking — not me being feeble-minded. But I also realize this is just the way it works as the world continues the inexorable Procession of Time.

Here in southeastern Connecticut, though, one thing I really hope never happens is that folks would forget The Reducers — New London's most exalted band, a pub rock act of wit and energy and a worldwide fan base.

Fortunately, on Friday, the Hygienic Art Park hosts "A Tribute to The Reducers Film & Dance Party." The event includes a screening of Bill Dumas' acclaimed documentary, "The Reducers: America's Best Unsigned Band," followed by a live performance by the Old Cons, an all-star trio playing a set of prime 'ducers songs. Dumas himself will be on drums with Tim Stawarz (from Roger C. Reale) on guitar and Jes Farnsworth (Jason Newsted's band) on bass. And it's more than worth noting that Farnsworth is the nephew of late Reducers bassist Steve Kaika.

"A Tribute to The Reducers Film & Dance Party," 7 p.m. Friday, Hygienic Art Park, 79 Bank St., New London; free, $10 suggested donation; (860) 443-8001.