Sometimes the most beautiful moments in rock happen when bands honor their influences in the most meaningful way possible, and The Killers just delivered one of those spine-tingling tributes that reminds us why live music matters so much.
During their SummerFest performance in Milwaukee, the Las Vegas quartet surprised fans with a cover of “American Music” by Violent Femmes – and the choice couldn’t have been more perfect. Playing the work of Milwaukee’s most iconic alt-rock heroes in their actual hometown felt like the ultimate act of musical respect.
For those who know their alternative music history, this moment was pure poetry. Violent Femmes burst onto the scene in 1981 with their folk-punk sound that defined Milwaukee’s underground music culture. Gordon Gano‘s distinctive vocals and Brian Ritchie‘s acoustic bass created a template that influenced countless bands…