Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers

Initially, it might strike outsiders as rather odd that Jimmy Buffett fans, so-called “Parrot Heads,” rival the “Dead Heads” as a musical subculture. However, it might make more sense if you know his backing band are known as the “Coral Reefers.” (“Reefers” as in madness.) Buffett’s longtime sidemen could flexibly incorporate many different styles of music. They could also handle the rigors of touring and the hard-partying that came with it. The Reefers and Buffett’s closest associates look back on their glory years with the “Mayor of Margaritaville” in John H. Cunningham’s documentary, Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers, which starts its theatrical tour tomorrow in Key West.

As it happens, Key West is where it all started for Buffett. After a few life setbacks, he found himself living in a house on the beach, with numerous roommates and little responsibility. He had an interest in busking, but while playing at a local bar, he started honing his idiosyncratic sound and laidback party lyrics.

Admittedly, it is hard to classify Buffett, but some viewers might be surprised he served as a formative influence on several country artists (including Kenny Chesney, who is a prominent commentator throughout the film). Likewise, Jerry Jeff Walker was an important early influence and mentor for Buffett. Yet, if you think about it, you can probably hear an apostolic connection between “Why Don’t We Get Drunk and XXXXX” and “Friends in Low Places.”

Nevertheless, Buffett was still rock & roll enough to open (and sometimes outshine, according to his road manager, Bob Liberman) the Eagles. Indeed, Liberman saw and survived a lot, as did the rest of the Coral Reefers. They all look back on the hedonistic years with nostalgia and pride. Clearly understanding his target demo, Cunningham delights in their rock-star reminiscences. Aside from periodic discussions of the music, Occupational Hazard mostly just tells tour anecdotes, usually involving booze, drugs, and other forms of indulgence. It is like a vintage Behind the Music installment, but without the tragic overdoses.

The resulting tone is dishy, but never scandalous. Consequently, it is admittedly a whole lot of guilty fun. It is probably exactly what Parrot Heads would want to see, but also quite lively, even for viewers outside the Buffett fandom. (If there is any over sight, it is the omission of Buffett’s patriotic ode to recapturing the 1987 America’s Cup, “Take It Back.”)

Regardless, Occupational Hazard maintains a very Buffett-like vibe. It is a terrible title, but an amusing, low-stress viewing experience. Confidently recommended for Parrot Heads and anyone nostalgic for pre-Covid, pre-woke lazy days partying on the beach, Occupational Hazard launches tomorrow (9/5) in Key West.