Violent Femmes are an American folk punk band from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, formed in 1980. The group's raw blend of punk and folk music soon garnered them a devoted following. Consisting of vocalist and guitarist Gordon Gano, bassist Brian Ritchie, and a rotating roster of drummers often including Victor DeLorenzo, the band gained notoriety for their unconventional songs that oscillated between themes of adolescent angst, love, and humor. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1983, became a hallmark of post-punk era with hits like "Blister in the Sun," "Kiss Off," and "Add It Up." These songs highlighted the band's ability to combine catchy melodies with emotionally charged lyrics, a distinctive approach that would influence a swath of alternative rock bands in the years to come.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the Violent Femmes cemented themselves as one of the most unique and enduring acts of their time, never quite fitting neatly into the conventional genres. Their live performances were particularly notable for their high energy and intimacy, often featuring stripped-down, acoustic instrumentation that allowed the rawness of Gano's songwriting to shine through. Over the years, the band experienced a series of hiatuses and lineup changes, but they've kept a loyal fanbase captivated with both classic tracks and new material, like their late 2010s songs "Hotel Last Resort" and "I'm Nothing." While the group's discography has expanded to include a diverse range of work—marked by their characteristic mix of sarcasm and sincerity—their iconic status within alternative music remains undisputed, solidified by a deep discography and a storied legacy on the stage.

Genres

Acoustic Punk

Alternative Rock

Punk

Related Artists

The Replacements

R.E.M.

Hüsker Dü

They Might Be Giants

The Smiths

Weezer

The Clash

The White Stripes

Talking Heads

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Elliott Smith

The B-52's

Latest Release

Hallowed Ground (Remastered 2024)

Violent Femmes

Album - 9 Tracks - Released November 8, 2024