In the second half of the ‘90s, many exciting and influential noisepop and post-hardcore bands took the stage at Vera. Record labels like Matador Records and Kill Rock Stars were overflowing with talent from the U.S., and the venue filled up for then-unknown names, purely because these labels acted as “gatekeepers” and we blindly trusted their taste. Some of the “instant favorites” included Shellac and Blonde Redhead, both of whom won at least one Vera poll. But following in their wake was the rougher and more noisy Unwound, which placed second in the Vera poll behind Blonde Redhead in 1996 and fourth in 1994, trailing acts like The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion and The Jesus Lizard. A true Vera favorite in the genre, Unwound dominated year-end lists with albums like Repetition and The Future of What.

Then, after ten years and five shows at Vera, the band suddenly pulled the plug due to personal issues, leaving a long silence. Just when they were ready to seriously pick things up again, bassist Vern Rumsey passed away in 2020. It was a tragic personal loss and also a major blow to Unwound’s signature sound. However, in 2023, they unexpectedly announced a U.S. tour, and to their surprise, venues sold out—not only with their older fanbase but also with a whole new (younger) generation of fans.

That year, Unwound made a one-off trip to Europe for PrimaVera Sound, and now, finally, the long-awaited (and somewhat unexpected) European club tour is here. The fact that they’re coming to Vera this year is truly special and amazing!

If you’re not familiar with them yet, be sure to check out the albums mentioned above. As a fan of contemporary indie and noise rock, you definitely don’t want to miss this!

P.S. Fun fact: New bass player Jared Warren (The Melvins, Karp) performed during Unwound’s first comeback shows wearing a Dead Moon shirt (see video below).

Unwound | website

Unwound | instagram

Unwound | facebook

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