Silkworm Reunites for Special September Shows
A Historic Comeback
Silkworm, the iconic indie-rock band hailing from Missoula, Montana, is set to reunite this September. Founded in the 1980s by Andy Cohen, Joel RL Phelps, and Tim Midyett, the band has been a significant part of the underground music scene. In a recent interview on the Kreative Kontrol podcast with Vish Khanna, Cohen and Midyett shared exciting news about reconfiguring their lineup. Notably, Phelps, who departed the band in 1994, will be returning for these special performances.
Details of the Upcoming Shows
These shows will mark Silkworm’s first official performances since their breakup in 2005, following the tragic death of drummer Michael Dahlquist. Midyett expressed enthusiasm on the podcast, stating, “There’s a very good chance that we’ll be playing a couple shows in September with Joel, and Matt [Kadane] will be playing keyboards—from Bedhead, who played in the latter day period of the ’worm.” The shows promise to present a unique take on the band’s history, envisioning a timeline where Phelps never left and Matt Kadane joined the fold.
Scheduled Performances
- Chicago Concert: Thursday, September 25
- Goner Fest in Memphis: Saturday, September 27
A Touching Tribute
Last year, Silkworm held an impromptu reunion during a memorial gathering for their late friend and collaborator, Steve Albini, in Zion, Illinois. Cohen, Midyett, and Phelps performed several Silkworm songs alongside Songs: Ohia drummer Jeff Panall, who will also participate in the upcoming September shows. This heartfelt performance honored Albini’s legacy and the band’s profound connection to their past.
The Legacy of Silkworm
Silkworm released their ninth and final studio album, It’ll Be Cool, in 2004. Tragically, the band faced an unimaginable loss the following year when Dahlquist, along with two friends, died in a car accident caused by a reckless driver. At that time, Cohen and Midyett had relocated to Chicago and, in the wake of their grief, formed a new band called Bottomless Pit. In 2013, the documentary Couldn’t You Wait? The Story of Silkworm was released, featuring interviews with notable musicians such as Albini, Stephen Malkmus, and Jeff Tweedy, chronicling the band’s impact on the music scene.
Conclusion
The reunion of Silkworm is not just a return to the stage; it represents a celebration of their enduring legacy and the bonds forged through music. As fans eagerly await the September shows, the excitement builds for a unique experience that honors the band’s history while embracing new possibilities.
FAQs
When and where will Silkworm perform?
Silkworm will perform in Chicago on Thursday, September 25, and at Goner Fest in Memphis on Saturday, September 27.
Who will be part of the reunion lineup?
The reunion lineup will include Andy Cohen, Tim Midyett, Joel RL Phelps, and Matt Kadane on keyboards, along with drummer Jeff Panall.
What was the last album released by Silkworm?
The last studio album released by Silkworm was It’ll Be Cool, which came out in 2004.
Why did the band break up?
Silkworm broke up in 2005 following the tragic death of drummer Michael Dahlquist in a car accident.
Has Silkworm performed since their breakup?
Yes, Silkworm held an impromptu reunion last year to perform at a memorial for Steve Albini, but the upcoming shows in September will be their first formal performances since 2005.
