JAPANESE pop punk icons Shonen Knife will celebrate their 35th Anniversary this year with a new album and accompanying tour – including a pair of Irish dates in Dublin and Cork on April 30 and May 2.
Original drummer Atsuko has also returned to play bass on the new record, the sessions for which are under way in Osaka.
Here's founding member Naoko (guitar/vocals) with more details:
"Hello everybody! Many things had happened to the band this year. Ritsuko is taking maternity and childcare leave then Naru became the support bassist and Risa joined the band as a new drummer.
"It is very hard for girls to continue a band. Besides of that, we tour overseas a lot and it's more difficult to keep balance of private life and band activity than usual.
"Nevertheless, I'd like to be particular about keep on rocking as an all-girl band. Now, the brilliant members, Atsuko, Risa, Ritsuko and Naru who grant my wish got together here.
"'Band' is a community for making music. All members, Atsuko, Risa, Ritsuko and Naru, have the same feeling which is 'I like Shonen Knife'.
"I'd like to make music with the members who can share the same feeling and have a good time.
"Basically, the official members are Atsuko, Risa and I, who can go to long tours but I want Ritsuko and Naru to join the band when there are opportunities.
"I hope you will be happy through Shonen Knife music! Please look forward to our new album and I'm very glad if you support our future activities.
"Let's have fun!"
:: Tickets available now via Ticketmaster.ie.
