Yes, indie rock band Velocity Girl are Reuniting in 2023!
Step into the nostalgic world of 1990s alternative rock with a closer look at the influential band, Velocity Girl. Hailing from Washington, D.C., Velocity Girl made their mark on the indie rock and shoegaze scenes with their captivating blend of dreamy melodies and sweet vocals. As we delve into their discography, delve into their impact on the era’s music landscape, and explore their lasting legacy, get ready to rekindle memories and discover the magic of Velocity Girl’s music all over again.
Who are Velocity Girl?
Taking their name from a Primal Scream track, Velocity Girl was an American alternative rock band formed in 1989 in Washington, D.C. The band consisted of Sarah Shannon on vocals, Archie Moore on guitar, Brian Nelson on bass, and Jim Spellman on drums. One of the key bands associated with the 1990s indie rock and shoegaze scenes, Velocity Girl’s music is characterized by catchy melodies, dreamy guitar textures, and Sarah Shannon’s sweet and distinctive vocals. They gained recognition with their debut album, Copacetic (1993), which received critical acclaim for its blend of pop hooks and shoegaze-inspired guitar work. Their follow-up album Simpatico! (1994) further solidified their place in the alternative rock scene, featuring tracks like “Sorry Again” and “What You Left Behind.” During their short but meaningful career, Velocity Girl was signed with the indie heavyweight Sub Pop and Merge record labels, and they toured extensively, gaining a loyal fanbase that is still recalled fondly. However, the band disbanded in 1996 after releasing their final album, Gilded Stars and Zealous Hearts. Velocity Girl’s impact on the 1990s alternative rock and shoegaze scenes continues to be recognized, and their music remains a beloved part of indie rock history. Their melodic and dreamy sound has left a lasting impression on fans and musicians alike, and they are often remembered as one of the influential bands of the era.
What records do Velocity Girl have?
The debut Velocity Girl album Copacetic was released on Sub Pop in March 1993, and the label also released their follow-up Simpatico! in June 1994. In March 1996, Sub Pop released their third and final record Gilded Stars and Zealous Hearts. In the meantime, Sub Pop released two EPs: the self-titled Velocity Girl (1993) and Sorry Again (1994). The label also released a 7” split with Tsunami in 1992. In 1997, Shute Records released a 7” split with Chisel. But you may be aware of Velocity Girl from the hit Clueless soundtrack, which features the track “My Forgotten Favorite.”
Click on the cover to buy the Clueless soundtrack!
What record labels are Velocity Girl on?
The seminal independent rock-n-roll record label Sub Pop has released all three (3) full-length albums by Velocity Girl, as well as both their EPs. Additionally, iconic indie labels Slumberland Records, Simple Machines, and Merge Records have all put out singles, splits, and/or compilation albums featuring Velocity Girl songs.
Click on the record album cover to buy Copacetic by Velocity Girl on vinyl!
Who is Sarah Shannon of Velocity Girl?
After Velocity Girl disbanded in 1996, Sarah Shannon began a solo career that also included the short-lived band Starry Eyes. In 2002, Sarah Shannon released her self-titled solo album that was produced and co-written by former Pedro the Lion drummer Blake Wescott, which she followed up with 2007’s City Morning Song on Minty Fresh Records. Currently, Sarah Shannon is very active as a member of The Not-Its!, a band that creates a brand of rock-n-roll music for children they call “kindie rock.” The Not-Its! also include Harvey Danger drummer Michael Welke, and have been cranking out records at a breakneck pace for the last decade.
Who is Jim Spellman of Velocity Girl and CNN and CGTN?
Jim Spellman was the drummer for early 1990s American rock-n-roll band Velocity Girl before going onto quite the established career as a journalist for major American news outlets. He has also played with Julie Ocean, and was in High Back Chairs with ex-Minor Threat member Jeff Nelson. Spellman spent more than a decade at CNN cover some of the biggest events of the 21st century, and the dude was even part of a team that won a Peabody Award in 2005. Since 2013, Jim Spellman has been a correspondent at CGTN America. Jim Spellman is normcore enough to have a bland LinkedIn profile, and yet hardcore enough to voluntarily get Tasered by Taser technology for a 2008 CNN segment.
Are Velocity Girl reuniting? I would like to buy tickets.
Yes! Velocity Girl are reuniting to play together again with dates in Washington, D.C. and New York City. During the weekend of September 8 and 9, 2023, Velocity Girl will be playing at the iconic Black Cat in support of the venue’s 30th anniversary, along with Ted Leo & The Pharmacists, Ex Hex, Gray Matter, and others. They will also be playing Saturday, September 30, 2023 at the Bowery Ballroom in New York City, and will be supported by the engaging art-pop band Elk City and the fantastic minor-key pop band Jeanines.
September 8 & September 9, 2023 — Washington D.C. — Black Cat
September 30, 2023 — New York City — Bowery Ballroom
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