The Violent Femmes headline All-Campus Party concert

The student-planned All-Campus Party (ACP) will present the Violent Femmes as the headline band for this year’s Badger Blowout Concert on Friday, April 29, at the Memorial Union Terrace.

Originally a 1980s alternative rock band, the Violent Femmes developed a large following among students and adults alike. According to Kris MacDonald, All-Campus Party co-director, this makes them a perfect match for All-Campus Party 2005, which aims to include everyone on campus in its events.

“The Violent Femmes are wild, experienced performers with a classic and upbeat style – a perfect fit for ACP 2005,” says MacDonald, who credits the Wisconsin Union Directorate music committee for helping the party connect with the band. “Their musical knowledge and resources were critical in securing such a big name.”

The Violent Femmes include bassist/multi-instrumentalist Brian Ritchie, drummer Victor De Lorenzo and singer/songwriter Gordon Gano. Although the band has released 10 albums, their most recognized is their self-titled album, which includes the hit song “Blister in the Sun.”

The April 29 concert begins at 7 p.m. and runs until midnight. In addition to Violent Femmes, the opening act will be The Profits. The winners of Battle of the Bands and the first annual All-Campus Idol, will also perform at the concert.

The fifth annual All-Campus Party is a cost-free, alcohol-alternative celebration created by the Wisconsin Alumni Student Board (WASB), a student-run organization of the Wisconsin Alumni Association. The festivities begin on Monday, April 25, and continue through Saturday, April 30.

A complete list of All-Campus Party 2005 events and sponsors is available.

This year’s All-Campus Party would not have been possible without the support of campus partners, including the Wisconsin Alumni Association, Associated Students of Madison, the Office of the Chancellor, University Housing, Charter Communications, UW Athletics, The Badger Herald, the Multi-Cultural Council, Apple Computers, the Wisconsin Union Directorate, Topper’s Pizza, The Daily Cardinal, Chipotle and The University Bookstore.