INTERVIEW: Shonen Knife is back, spreading punk happiness around the U.S.
Shonen Knife, one of the most respected bands in the history of punk rock, is back on the touring scene in the United States. The trio, who come from Osaka, Japan, features Naoko Yamano on guitars and vocals, Atsuko Yamano on bass and vocals, and Risa Kawano on drums and vocals. Their tour continues through Sunday, Oct. 26, with several dates over the next week on the West Coast. This run follows sold-out shows on the East Coast, including a two-night stand in Brooklyn before hundreds of people.
This is the first time that Shonen Knife has toured the United States since 2019. Now, they are bringing their unique form of pop-punk to the masses, and everyone should get ready to smile because the tour is called the “Everyone Happy” tour. Also, the trio is touring behind an expanded version of the celebrated 2023 album Our Best Place.
Recently Naoko exchanged emails with Hollywood Soapbox while she was traveling the highways of the United States. Naoko has been there since the beginning, when the band opened for the likes of Nirvana and Sonic Youth; when they recorded an album of Ramones covers; and when they found success with songs like “Buttercup (I’m a Super Girl),” “Ice Cream City” and a cover of “Top of the World.” Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
How has the tour of the United States been going?
It’s been very well. Many people came to see us, and the reaction from our audience was so cheerful and friendly. I’m getting energy from them. I’m enjoying delicious food and shopping when I have spare time during the tour.
It’s been a while since you last toured the U.S. What was the reason? The pandemic?
It is the first tour since 2019. We didn’t have a chance to be invited. That’s it. We had other tours like Europe/UK tour in the meantime. I’m really happy to come back to the U.S.
Some people characterize the band’s sound as pop-punk. Do you like that label?
I don’t mind to be characterized. I believe Shonen Knife is Shonen Knife. It’s very unique. We are one and only band. I love bands who have pop melody lines like the Beatles.
What was the rock and punk scene like in Osaka in the 1980s?
I think it was a bit simpler than nowadays. There were some venues and some bands, like punk bands, hard rock bands. Folk music musicians were playing. We were not very much included in the scene.
What can fans expect from Our Best Place (2025 Version)?
It includes bonus tracks. Please check the list of songs. The vinyl is a beautiful clear disc. Our Best Place has the taste of early Shonen Knife and present taste mixed, too. I hope the album can be “Your Best Place.”
Music seems to bring you happiness. Is that true?
Yes, it is. Listening to music makes me happy, and when my music makes you happy, it will be my happiness. It can be a chain of happiness through music.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
Shonen Knife continues its Everyone Happy tour of the United States through Sunday, Oct. 26. Click here for more information and tickets.
