Concerts

Shonen Knife

For a simple idea to last rather than annoy, it's got to be a mighty good one — like, for instance, the concept behind Shonen Knife. Since the early '90s, when the band regularly opened for Nirvana, sisters Naoko and Atsuko Yamano have built their music upon rock and punk...
By Michael RobertsNovember 29, 2007
Carbonatix Pre-Player Loader

Audio By Carbonatix

Keep Westword Free

We’re aiming to raise $20,000 by April 26. Your support ensures Westword can continue watching out for you and our community. No paywall. Always accessible. Daily online and weekly in print.

SUPPORT US TODAY
$20,000

For a simple idea to last rather than annoy, it’s got to be a mighty good one — like, for instance, the concept behind Shonen Knife. Since the early ’90s, when the band regularly opened for Nirvana, sisters Naoko and Atsuko Yamano have built their music upon rock and punk rudiments. However, the Yamanos’ chirpy vocals and absurdist lyrics, which resemble charmingly imperfect translations, twist the formula so amiably that complaints about gimmickry seem churlish. Granted, Genki Shock!, the act’s latest disc on the Glue Factory imprint, doesn’t exactly herald a significant change in direction for the combo. Then again, who needs different when the same is so enjoyable?

No one covers Denver like we do.

If you value independent journalism, please consider making a contribution to support our continued coverage of Denver's music, events and entertainment scenes.

Support Us Today

GET MORE COVERAGE LIKE THIS

Sign up for the Music newsletter to get the latest stories delivered to your inbox

Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword‘s news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor’s degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master’s degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

michaelrobertscolo@gmail.com

Loading latest posts...