We’re thrilled to welcome back the legendary Shonen Knife on their 40th anniversary tour, for not just one, but TWO shows!
Their motto is simply “Let’s Have Fun” – and that’s precisely what we aim to do in May 2023.
“When I finally got to see them live, I was transformed into a hysterical nine-year-old girl at a Beatles concert” – Kurt Cobain
Shonen Knife – from Osaka, Japan – formed in 1981 by sisters Naoko & Atsuko long before terms like ‘riot girrrl’ and ‘girl rock’ entered the lexicon, the all-female trio were happily snapping guitar strings to the sound of imported Ramones covers. Like fellow cult Japanese girl group The 5,6,7,8s, Shonen Knife have weathered decades of musical change by adhering to what they know best: belting out their own infectious brand of feel good pop-punk.
Over the last 40 years they might not have packed out out stadiums but have been credited as a huge influence on alt rock acts from Sonic Youth to Nirvana.
Despite years on the road, their enthusiasm for live performances remains a joy to see as they delve into an extensive back catalogue ranging from solid thrash rock through to hit parade melodies. But key to their success has been a disarming, often slightly surreal, take on their punk and rock influences – and with songs titled ‘Tortoise Brand Pot Cleaner’ could they ever be accused of taking themselves too seriously?
“They feel a kinship with British and American punks like Buzzcocks, the Ramones, and Black Flag, and their music sizzles with unabashed, carbon-copy glee” – Pitchfork
“Incredibly fun to watch live. Their happiness and enjoyment is infectious, and the humour is there as well” – Spill Magazine
“Japan’s beloved Shonen Knife have now been churning out mini pop-punk masterpieces for bang on 30 years” – NME
