Supergroup LS Dunes are no strangers to innovation, and with their sophomore album Violet, they continue to push the boundaries of their sound. Comprised of members from some of the most influential bands in alternative and post-hardcore—Anthony Green (Circa Survive), Frank Iero (My Chemical Romance), Tim Payne and Tucker Rule (Thursday), and Travis Stever (Coheed and Cambria)—LS Dunes is a powerhouse of talent. Together, they blend seamlessly, crafting a sound that is uniquely their own, evolves with each release, and challenges expectations at every turn.
After introducing themselves to the world at Riot Fest in Chicago in 2022, LS Dunes quickly made their mark with their debut album Past Lives. The album cycle was a resounding success: they toured globally, built a passionate, cult-like fanbase, and released singles that resonated with listeners. However, despite their success, the band felt something was missing—an element of hope and light. “I wanted to make something that was in complete opposition to that song—something that says, I want to live,” reflects Green, referring to the dark closing track "Sleep Cult" from their first album. With that desire for change, LS Dunes returns with Violet, a record that marks a significant shift in both sound and attitude.
Violet presents a fresh opportunity for the band to be rediscovered in a more positive light. Crafted with care and passion from each band member, and with the guiding hand of Grammy-nominated producer Will Yip, Violet opens with "Like Magick," a track that encapsulates the album’s essence. “Everything is new,” sings Green in the opening lines, offering a moment of calm, a sort of soliloquy, before the band erupts into a triumphantly building wave of sound. From there, tracks like "Fatal Deluxe" and "I Can See It Now" shift the energy to a gritty, forceful intensity that continues throughout the record.
As Violet unfolds, it blends anthemic ballads, and hopeful lyricism, and nods to the band’s post-hardcore roots. Yet each track feels personalized and refined, a reflection of the distinct contributions of each band member. Whether through Green’s introspective vocals or signature guitar work from Iero or Stever, every listen reveals new nuances that make the album worth revisiting. With Violet, LS Dunes takes what they’ve done best and elevates it to new heights, leaving you with songs that stay long after the album ends.
In this new phase of their career, Violet showcases LS Dunes' ability to innovate, evolve, and connect with their audience on a deeper level. "I wanted to celebrate music and the transformative power that it has to connect and inspire people," says Green. And with this album, they’ve done just that. Through fusing their established sound with themes of introspection and hope, LS Dunes has created a natural progression from Past Lives. Violet is a record that celebrates life, embracing the good and the possibility of what’s yet to come.
As the band takes their new music on the road, fans have a chance to rediscover LS Dunes. Currently touring the UK and Europe, the band has also announced a headlining U.S. tour set for April. With support from From Indian Lakes, Derek Zanetti, Nights Sins, and Plague Vendor on select dates, the tour will allow fans to experience Violet live and see how LS Dunes continues to evolve, both on stage and in the studio.
