Event

The March Violets

The first alternative band to have equal male and female vocals, The March Violets were formed in Leeds in the post-punk era at the very start of the '80s. Alongside The Danse Society, The Sisters of Mercy and The Southern Death Cult, they were one of the four dark British Northern Bands that are often blamed for starting the gothic scene.

The Violets released a series of singles that still fill the darker dance floors around the world, the most played being "Snakedance" and "Walk into the Sun." They imploded in 1985, just before the rise of "goth rock" made The Mission and Sisters household names.

Three original members reformed in 2007 for a remarkably successful reunion, and since then the Violets have done a few rare concerts, headlined some festivals, survived throat cancer, and finally managed to write and record their first proper album, "Made Glorious." The Violets are a rare thing, a legendary band that has actually managed to evolve, yet retain their original dark brilliance.

Founding member Si Denbigh, beard and male vox, spent 16 years in the Sisters of Mercy for his sins. Rosie Garland, female vocalist, is now a successful author and poet, as well as an international Vampire Diva. Tom Ashton, who was also in Clan Of Xymox, creates chilling music for horror movies. They are joined on bass by William Faith, who has adorned Faith And The Muse, The Bellwether Syndicate, Sex Gang Children and Christian Death amongst others.

They are supported at the Pittsburgh show by internationally known goth DJ Scary Lady Sarah of Chicago and the Pittsburgh post-punk band Silence.