1990s Post-Punk band The Breeders celebrate 30 years of their album Last Splash at Tannahill’s Tavern in Fort Worth.
Originally from Dayton, Ohio, The Breeders formed in 1989 as a subsidiary project due to Pixies’ Kim Deal and Throwing Muses’ Tanya Donelly’s full-time involvement in their original bands. Shortly after, Donelly decided to leave The Breeders to focus on her own band, Belly, in 1991, while Deal made The Breeders her main project after the Pixies broke up in 1993. In 1992, Donelly was replaced by Kim’s twin sister, Kelly, and played alongside bassist Josephine Wiggs and drummer Jim Macpherson. With the success of their hit song “Cannonball” and the unique sounds from their first album Pod, The Breeders quickly rose to become a prominent band in the 90s alternative rock scene. Rock legend Kurt Cobain even labeled their album Pod as one of his favorite records, eventually landing them a spot to open for Nirvana on their 1992 European Tour.
After their most prominent hiatus since late 1993, the band officially returned, releasing the album All Nerve in 2018. Most recently, they released the 30th Anniversary version of their original 1992 album Last Splash, adding 2 new songs, “Go Man Go” and “Divine Mascis,” which features Dinosaur Jr.’s J Mascis, adding his own take on their initial song “Divine Hammer.”
As the line into Tannahill’s Tavern grows, so does the anticipation of the fans. To begin the show, L.A. native opener, “Fashion Club,” brings an art rock and dream pop energy to the venue, playing songs from their album “Scrutiny,” released in 2022. With inspiration mostly from Kate Bush and Brian Eno, Fashion Club creates an ambient yet rock-like sound. Shortly after Fashion Club’s moving set, The Breeders entered the stage.
Due to this being the 30th Anniversary Tour of Last Splash, Kim leads the band as they work their way through the album, from A side to B side. They wowed the crowd with their most notable songs on Last Splash, including “Cannonball,” “No Aloha,” and “Drivin’ on 9”. Although it has been 30 years since this album’s release, Kim, Kelly, Jim, and Josephine play the songs with even more passion and liveliness, giving the crowd an experience they will remember.
Although The Breeders are only scheduled for 6 more shows on tour after appearing in Fort Worth, this is not their last appearance. The Breeders are expected to perform as the opener for Olivia Rodrigo on a part of her tour with her most recently released album, Guts.
I am currently attending the University of North Texas with a photojournalism major. I love going to concerts of all genres, whether I am stage diving or headbanging, I never miss an opportunity to appreciate live music. In my free time, I enjoy thrifting for CD's and records, spending time with my cats, going to art exhibits, and traveling (especially to NYC). My biggest inspiration is Danny Clinch, and one day I aspire to open up my own gallery to showcase my work!