Yes, it’s been 30 years since Violent Femmes released their eponymous debut album in 1983, and now the acoustic punk pioneers are set to celebrate the album’s 30th anniversary with a maiden performance at the Sydney Opera House this December.
The Femmes’ Opera House performance will see the American three-piece, consisting of founding members Gordon Gano (vocals, guitar), Brian Ritchie (bass) and new member Brian Viglione (drums) perform the group’s debut album in its entirety, as well as tracks from their second album Hallowed Ground, which was released in 1984.
Violent Femmes’ debut album spawned some huge hits, including Blister in the Sun (below), Kiss Off, Add It Up and Gone Daddy Gone, and set the band up to have tremendous influence in the world of alternative rock.
Ben Marshall, Head of Contemporary Music at Sydney Opera House said, “One of the pivotal bands that paved the way for the recent explosion of literate, ambitious and exciting indie-rock that we’ve programmed so much of, the Violent Femmes’ searing, caustic and energising work struck a deep chord early on in Australia and we are thrilled to have them play the big room here.
“They are the first band I ever saw play live,” Marshall continued. “To have them play their incredible first album in its entirety for its 30th anniversary at the Opera House is a real moment and will be an incendiary summer concert this December.”
Violent Femmes first toured Australia in 1992 (with Nirvana as support!), but returned eight years later for Falls Festival. Details of their 30th anniversary Sydney Opera House show are available below.
Watch: Violent Femmes – Blister In The Sun
Violent Femmes 30th Anniversary Album Tour
Tickets on sale to the general public at 9am AEST Friday, 15th August
Monday, 29th December 2014
Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, Sydney
Tickets: Via Sydney Opera House | 9250 7777
