Murder By Death Says Farewell to New Jersey
“Gothic” and “country” are two words that I never would have expected to work together…but that was before I saw Murder by Death live last weekend. The group brought its farewell tour to Asbury Lanes for show number 1,899 of their 25 year journey. And their New Jersey fans packed the house for one last taste of that unique musical style. The tour also serves as support for the band’s latest album, Egg & Dart, which released in June, and the night’s setlist included new songs “Lose You” and “Sorry”. But they also made sure to play some of their more popular work like “Comin’ Home” (a personal favorite), “Lost River”, “Foxglove”, and “Spring Break 1899”. Overall it was a hauntingly beautiful set and a great way to say goodbye to their local fans.
The night also included a powerful performance by Laura Jane Grace. The punk rocker was stellar as usual, with backing vocals from Paris Campbell Grace, Mikey Erg on drums, and King Mike on bass. Grace’s setlist included new tracks “Wearing Black”, “Active Trauma”, “Mine Me Mine”, and the infamous “Your God (God’s Dick)” from her upcoming album Adventure Club, plus Against Me! songs such as “I Was a Teenage Anarchist” and “Black Me Out”.
Murder By Death’s farewell tour continues through November, and Laura Jane Grace will be the support before she heads out on her own in late August. Be sure to catch them when they play a venue near you. Until then, check out their work wherever you stream your music.
Murder By Death
Laura Jane Grace
Coverage from June 29, 2025 at Asbury Lanes in Asbury Park, NJ.
All photos are © Michael Campanile Photography and cannot be used without permission.
