Seminal alt rockers Violent Femmes are set to embark on a monumental journey this spring, treating fans to an unforgettable experience as they perform both their groundbreaking debut album and their sophomore release in their entirety. This exclusive tour, commencing on May 1st in San Francisco and culminating on May 18th in Detroit, promises to be a nostalgic celebration of the band’s iconic discography.

Tickets go on sale Friday, March 15 at 12 PM local time at https://vfemmes.com/tour

In a rare spectacle, Violent Femmes will kick off each show by delving into their second album, “Hallowed Ground”, which commemorates its 40th anniversary this year. Following a brief intermission, the band will take the stage once again to deliver a full rendition of their eponymous debut album, along with a selection of fan and band favorites to conclude the evening.

These performances serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of Violent Femmes, transporting audiences back to a pivotal moment in music history. Lead vocalist and guitarist Gordon Gano’s songwriting prowess shines through, with both albums conceived during his high school years. Despite their shared origin, each album embodies a distinct sonic identity, showcasing the band’s versatility and evolution over time.

“Violent Femmes”, hailed as the soundtrack to male puberty, encapsulates the angst and alienation of the 1980s with timeless anthems such as “Kiss Off”, “Add It Up”, and “Gone Daddy Gone”. This autobiographical masterpiece resonates with disenchanted youth, its enduring popularity solidifying its status as a pillar of the American underground movement and a quintessential example of alternative rock.

In contrast, “Hallowed Ground” defied expectations, blending elements of country, gospel, and blues to create an eclectic sonic tapestry. Tracks like “Sweet Misery Blues” and “Country Death Song” showcase the band’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries, earning them praise for their resilience and authenticity.

Since their inception, Violent Femmes have continued to captivate audiences across generations, with their music finding resonance in popular culture through films and television shows. Their enduring relevance speaks to the universal appeal of their music, with Pitchfork noting that “The Femmes don’t signify an era so much as a time of life”, making them part of a shared language for listeners young and old alike.

As Violent Femmes mark their 40th anniversary, their retrospective tour offers fans a chance to revisit the past while embracing the present. With their timeless melodies and poignant lyricism, Violent Femmes continue to inspire and enthrall audiences, cementing their status as icons of alternative rock.

The official tour dates are as follows: 

Dates subject to change. 

May 1               The Warfield                                               San Francisco, CA

May 3               The Cuthbert Amphitheater                    Eugene, OR

May 4               Commodore Ballroom                              Vancouver, BC

May 5               Commodore Ballroom                              Vancouver, BC

May 7               MacEwan Hall                                           Calgary, AB

May 8               Winspear Centre                                      Edmonton, AB

May 10             Burton Cummings Theatre                     Winnipeg, MAN

May 11             Outdoors @ Fargo Brewing                   Fargo, ND

May 12             The Palace                                                St. Paul, MN

May 14             Val Air Ballroom                                    Des Moines, IA

May 15             Peoria Civic Center                               Peoria, IL

May 16             Murat Theatre at Old National Centre     Indianapolis, IN

May 17             Riverfront Live                                       Cincinnati, OH

May 18             Masonic Cathedral Theatre                   Detroit, MI

For more information, visit https://vfemmes.com