News · 10 August 2026

Shonen Knife Plot 'Re-Cuttin’ Australian Tour 2026

The Japanese trio are touring in support of the re-release of their 1992 album, 'Let's Knife'.

Shonen Knife - photo supplied

Japanese punk rockers Shonen Knife are returning down under this October and November for a series of live shows in support of their re-cut seminal 1992 album Let's Knife, out Friday 21 August via Valve/MGM.

Shonen Knife re-recorded every song for Let’s Knife Re-Cut, which was executive produced by Robby Takac of the Goo Goo Dolls and recorded at Good Caramel Audio in Buffalo, USA.

The band rose to fame after Nirvana's Kurt Cobain called the trio "his favourite band", causing Shonen Knife's popularity to skyrocket.

Heading to Australia and New Zealand to celebrate the new version of Let's Knife, Shonen Knife are touring alongside Australia's own Turnstyle, Moler and media puzzle.

The tour begins in Melbourne at The Tote on Wednesday 14 October, before hitting Ballarat, Belgrave, Melbourne, Hobart, Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Alice Springs, Canberra, Sydney, Bathurst, Avalon Beach, and finally, Newcastle King St on Sunday 1 November. Tickets on sale now.

Founded in Osaka in 1981, Shonen Knife take influence from '60s girl groups and early punk bands. They have carved out a niche in the musical landscape that's seen the trio release more than 20 studio albums, perform alongside Nirvana and play at some of the biggest festivals on the planet, including Lollapalooza.

The band has gone through multiple lineup changes over the years, with the current iteration, featuring OG members Naoko Yamano (lead vocals, guitar) and Atsuko Yamano (bass, backing vocals) alongside Risa Kawano (drums, backing vocals), excited to make their Aussie return next month.

Catch Shonen Knife performing at The Gov on Thursday 22 October. Tickets on sale now via oztix.com.au. Let’s Knife: Re-cut is out Friday 21 August via Valve/MGM. Pre-order here.