Craft Recordings and Violent Femmes are commemorating 40 years of the band’s sophomore title, Hallowed Ground, with a wide vinyl reissue.
Once an overlooked gem, the album has become a cornerstone of Violent Femmes’ catalog and live performances, and a pioneering work in the post-punk and alt-country genres.
Set for release on November 8 and available for pre-order today, the LP has been mastered from the original stereo tapes (AAA) and features standout tracks such as the live staple “Country Death Song,” fan favorite “Never Tell,” the hauntingly atmospheric “I Hear the Rain,” the Lou Reed–inspired “Sweet Misery Blues,” and the infectious “Jesus Walking on the Water.”
In addition to the standard vinyl, widely available for the first time in over a decade, Hallowed Ground can also be found in four limited color pressings, including a Green Smoke variant, Orange Smoke, Azure Blue, and Onyx. The remastered album will also make its debut on hi-res digital formats.
To mark this milestone, Violent Femmes are currently on a North America tour, resuming tonight (August 14) with two performances in Northampton, MA. The tour will conclude on October 9 with a special show at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville.
First released in May of 1984, Violent Femmes’ sophomore title, Hallowed Ground, is celebrated for its innovative exploration of American roots music, blending traditional folk influences with the band’s distinctive style. The set also includes contributions from banjo virtuoso Tony Trischka on “Country Death Song” and “It’s Gonna Rain,” and avant-garde saxophonist John Zorn on “Black Girls,” both of whom added distinctive layers to the record’s experimental soundscape.
The album’s lyrics delve into themes of faith, redemption and existential contemplation. This marked a bold departure from the more straightforward pop sound of the band’s debut, which featured beloved teen angst anthems like “Blister in the Sun,” “Add It Up” and “Kiss Off.”
Order the 40th anniversary edition of Hallowed Ground.