The Violent Femmes played their first two albums in full—Violent Femmes and Hallowed Ground. The songs still hit with the same raw energy and urgency they had when they were first released. Nothing felt polished or softened by time. The debut was sharp, aggressive, and unfiltered. Hallowed Ground followed with a heavier, more intense tone, focused on religion, death, and discomfort. “Country Death Song” came across less like a performance and more like something deeply personal and exposed.

Gordon Gano’s voice hasn’t changed. He still sings with that distinct tone—unrefined and unapologetic. Brian Ritchie handled his oversized acoustic bass with full control, giving the set a strong foundation. John Sparrow used a charcoal grill as part of his drum kit, delivering a steady, forceful rhythm. Blaise Garza’s saxophone cut through everything with precision and control. The band is still based in Milwaukee and has ten albums behind them. They had merchandise for sale—shirts, tapes, records—and people bought them without hesitation.

The tour covered 18 cities and made over $2 million, but the money wasn’t the focus. What mattered was the way the crowd responded—fully engaged, present, and affected. The songs meant something, and for a lot of people, they still do.

For more info, tour dates, and music, visit vfemmes.com.

Violent Femmes