Nike SB x Violent Femmes Janoski Remastered Shoes
Hot on the newest release from American folk, punk band Violent Femmes, Nike SB pro skateboarder and artist Stefan Janoski has designed a custom shoe - the Nike SB x Violent Femmes Janoski Remastered - in celebration of the band and their welcomed return.
Both a fan and a friend, the idea came to light after Janoski approached the trio with the proposal for a Violent Femmes themed Nike shoe. The design is a direct reference to the re-recorded track ‘I’m Nothing’ - which first appeared on the 1994 album ‘New Times’ - as ‘an exploration of the modern conundrum of people needing to attach labels to other human beings’. Reworked with more impact in comparison to the original track - with the addition of vocals from Janoski himself - the 2019 edition is accompanied by a no-frills music video featuring a community of characters celebrating the tracks political edge, alongside cut scenes of Janoski skateboarding whilst donning a pair of the collaborative shoes.
Making a statement in their own way the Nike SB x Violent Femmes Janoski Remastered Shoes carry a super clean aesthetic with crisp white canvas uppers, premium leather laces and a matching flexible rubber outsole. Signature Swoosh tick branding has been printed onto either side panel for a subtle effect, whilst contrasting ‘VIOLENT’ and ‘FEMMES’ text can be found separated across both outer side panels. Applied using a chain-stitched method for impact, outlined lettering has been sewn onto the edge of the midsole, whilst rubberised lettering underneath gives a mirrored effect with a solid tour yellow fill. Impactful through their simplicity, ‘I’m Nothing’ has been printed in black at the top of the tongue, written in Janoski’s handwriting, whilst inside a new foam sockliner acts as a base for a cartoon illustration of ‘I’m Something’ protestors above stylised ‘Stefan x Violent Femmes’ text.
The tenth studio album from Violent Femmes, ‘Hotel Last Resort’, is a punchy, straight to the point 13-track collection of songs featuring original band members Gordon Gano and Brian Ritchie alongside John Sparrow who joined in 2016. Hailing from Milwaukee, Violent Femmes were first discovered in 1981, playing on a street corner, by James Honeyman-Scott of The Pretenders, which led to the release of their self titled debut album in early 1983 that featured some of their best known tracks ‘Blister in The Sun’, ‘Kiss Off’ and ‘Add It Up’.
Sculpter, painter, writer, musician and pro skateboarder, Stefan Janoski is known for his multi-skilled creativity and open-minded approach to design. Following the introduction of his signature pro model in 2013 - the Nike SB Stefan Janoski - many iterations have been introduced that experiment with colour, fabric and construction with an ongoing signature aesthetic that has become the most successful shoe design from Nike’s skateboarding line. Sure of his ideas and requirements a piece of Janoski’s personality is reflected through each design, which is particularly paramount through this years ongoing 10th anniversary ‘Remastered’ collection that sees individual models reflect a different chapter within Janoski’s life.
The Nike SB x Violent Femmes Janoski Remastered Shoes are available Thursday, 15th August at 8am.
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