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HorrorPops
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HorrorPops are a Danish punk band that formed in 1996. The band's sound is rooted in psychobilly, rockabilly, and punk rock.
Key Information
History
[edit]1996–1999: Formation
[edit]Band founders Patricia Day and Kim Nekroman first met when Day's now-defunct band, the punk rock group Peanut Pump Gun, opened for Nekroman's psychobilly band, Nekromantix, at the POPKOM festival in Cologne, Germany in 1996. Despite both belonging to the subculture scene of Copenhagen, Denmark, the two had never met before, but they became friends over their mutual interest in alternative music.
2000–2003: Demo tape and signing
[edit]In 2000, Day recruited two friends, Mille and Kamilla Vanilla, co-workers at the body piercing shop she worked at to act as go-go dancers for the band's live show. The group also recorded a 7-song demo for use in a press kit, but it was somehow leaked to the public, and resulted in two of the group's singles, "Ghouls" and "Psychobitches outta Hell" becoming club hits in Denmark. The group spent the next few years touring Europe until 2003. During this time, Caz the Clash became a father and left the band to focus on parenting. He was replaced by another Strawberry Slaughterhouse member, Karsten. Hellcat Records, Tim Armstrong's record label, signed HorrorPops. The band released a vinyl single in September 2003, and began a U.S. headlining tour.
HorrorPops ventured out on their first US tour as headliner for the "Aloha from hell tour" with nine shows across California and Arizona. They were interviewed by Vogue, and reviewed by LA Weekly.
2004: Hell Yeah
[edit]Hell Yeah! was released February 10, 2004; the interest in the band grew and when they did their release show at Amoeba Records, it was packed, to the surprise of everyone in HorrorPops. HorrorPops was then supposed to follow up with a grand U.S. tour, but got stuck in immigration paperwork and had to cancel the whole tour. The Offspring was just about to head out on their month-long European tour and with a three-day warning HorrorPops got offered the chance to join them as main support. Horrorpops played every night for audiences numbering between 5000 and 16000 people, and then continued with their own 1+1⁄2-month headline tour in Europe. Shortly after the European tour ended, Horrorpops returned to the states to play Jimmy Kimmel Live and a few California shows, but realizing the work that lay ahead and how time-consuming the band had become, Mille had to leave the band to go back to school. Mille got replaced by another good friend of the band, Naomi, who was quickly renamed NoNo. HorrorPops started touring the states, first on Punks VS Psychos, then as main support for Lars Frederiksen and the Bastards and then back to Europe for another tour. The band toured continuously in 2004 and the band enjoyed it. The Horrorpops also played in a movie called The Punk Rock Halocust and therefore made them more popular. Later, Karsten had to leave the band; he met the love of his life and wanted to spend time with her which was hard to do with the band's tour schedule. HorrorPops played around 110 shows in 2004 and went back to Los Angeles to start work on their second album. They played one last show for the year in West Hollywood to announce their new guitar player.
2005–2008: Bring it On and Kiss Kiss Kill Kill
[edit]The band soon relocated from Denmark to Los Angeles, California. The band's second album, Bring It On!, was released on September 13, 2005, and featured their new rhythm guitarist, Geoff Kresge. The HorrorPops spent most of 2006 touring Canada, Asia, Europe, and the States, including a Warped Tour stint. Kresge left the group before the band's next album, bringing the group back to three members.
Their third album, released on February 5, 2008, is called Kiss Kiss Kill Kill. The band began a North American tour around the time the album was released. They began the tour with an electric show in San Luis Obispo, CA, USA where they have a fairly loyal following, and are currently touring with two bands from Los Angeles, CA. Their opening bands include Rocket, which is an all-female band, and The Pink Spiders, a pop punk band. They are on Vans Warped Tour all summer. After the release of Kiss Kiss Kill Kill they began to have a much larger fan base.
'Barbie doll' controversy
[edit]On 23 December 2010, Patricia Day filed a lawsuit in an Indianapolis federal court against the Hard Rock casino, charging infringement of the right of publicity and false endorsement. In her lawsuit, the HorrorPops singer claimed Hard Rock and Mattel had been selling a Barbie doll in her image without her authorization.
Mattel and Hard Rock have released a series of rock ‘n’ roll-themed Barbies, featuring pioneering female musicians such as Debbie Harry of Blondie, Joan Jett or Cyndi Lauper. In the lawsuit it is alleged that another doll, called the “Hard Rock Café Barbie Doll" or the “Rockabilly Barbie,” is made in the image[2] of the HorrorPops lead singer but without direct acknowledgement of nor permission by Patricia Day.[3]
Patricia Day's cancer battle
[edit]On 14 March 2022, it was announced on the band's Facebook page that Day was battling cancer and that a GoFundMe page was set up for people to donate money to help Day pay for her medical bills. "If we decide to do a comeback tour after a 9-year hiatus, a pandemic will shut all shows down and remove all means of income. And of course, as the pandemic dwindles and touring starts to be possible, cancer decides to pay me a visit. Well, F Murphy and his god damn law and F cancer. I’m planning US shows for late summer & fall and Europe tours for ‘23 & ‘24 … and I can’t wait!!!" Day said. [4]
Band members
[edit]Current lineup
[edit]- Patricia Day – double bass, vocals
- Kim Nekroman – semi-acoustic guitar
- Henrik "Niedermeier" Stendahl – drums
Former members
[edit]- Casper "Caz The Clash" Holbek – rhythm guitar (1998–2003)
- Karsten Johansen – rhythm guitar (2003–2004)
- Geoff Kresge – rhythm guitar (2005–2006)
- Sam Soto - rhythm guitar (2007-2008)
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]| Title | Release date | Label |
|---|---|---|
| Hell Yeah! | February 10, 2004 | Hellcat/Epitaph |
| Bring It On! | September 9, 2005 | Hellcat/Epitaph |
| Kiss Kiss Kill Kill | February 5, 2008 | Hellcat/Epitaph |
EPs and singles
[edit]| Title | Release date | Label | Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ghouls/Psychobitches Outta Hell | September 2003 | Rancid Records | |
| MissTake (CD single) | Hellcat/Epitaph Europe | ||
| MissTake (picture disc) | Hellcat/Epitaph Europe | Picturedisc Limited to 500 copies and 500 signed copies under pressing. Only sold on Tour |
Music videos
[edit]| Year | Title | Director | Album |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Ghouls | Unknown Director | Hell Yeah! |
| Miss Take | Justin Purser | ||
| 2005 | Where You Can't Follow | Matt Heckerling | Bring It On! |
| 2008 | Heading for the Disco? | Octavio Winkytiki | Kiss Kiss Kill Kill |
| Boot To Boot | Unknown Director | ||
| Horrorbeach Pt. 2 | Octavio Winkytiki |
See also
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to HorrorPops.
References
[edit]- ^ "HorrorPops Festival". Facebook. Retrieved 2013-06-18.[permanent dead link]
- ^ "Image of "Hard Rock Barbie"". Archived from the original on 2012-03-16. Retrieved 2012-02-19.
- ^ "Singer alleges Barbie doll made in her likeness" Las Vegas Sun, 25 December 2010
- ^ "Help patricia Day beat the crap out of cancer". facebook.com. Retrieved 2022-03-15.
External links
[edit]- @Horrorpops_official at Instagram
- HorrorPops at AllMusic
- "Epitaph Records – HorrorPops". Archived from the original on January 1, 2006. Retrieved July 5, 2006.
- Horrorpops interview on TruePunk.com
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HorrorPops
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
HorrorPops is a Danish psychobilly band formed in August 1996 in Copenhagen, blending elements of punk rock, rockabilly, surf, ska, and '80s new wave with horror-themed imagery and energetic performances.[1][2]
The band was founded by lead vocalist and bassist Patricia Day, guitarist Kim "Nekroman" Gaarde (also of the psychobilly group Nekromantix), and drummer Henrik "Niedermeier" Stendahl, emerging from the local punk and rockabilly scenes.[2][3]
After gaining attention through demos and live shows, HorrorPops signed with Hellcat Records (an imprint of Epitaph) in 2003 and relocated to Los Angeles, California, where they expanded their lineup and honed their signature sound.[2][3]
Their debut album, Hell Yeah! (2004), introduced hits like "Miss Take," followed by Bring It On! (2005) featuring "Walk Like a Zombie" and Kiss Kiss Kill Kill (2008), which solidified their cult following in the punk and alternative scenes through extensive touring, including multiple appearances on the Vans Warped Tour in 2005, 2007, and 2008.[2][4][3][5]
After a hiatus, the band reunited in early 2020 for sold-out performances, culminating in the release of their first live album, Live at the Wiltern (2021), recorded at the iconic Los Angeles venue and capturing their theatrical stage presence with 19 tracks spanning their catalog. In 2022, amid frontwoman Patricia Day's cancer diagnosis and a GoFundMe campaign for treatment, the band undertook a U.S. tour including the When We Were Young festival.[2][6][7][8][9]
HorrorPops has maintained sporadic activity into the early 2020s, continuing to influence the psychobilly genre with their devilish, irreverent style and commitment to live energy.[10][2][11]
Additional promotional singles, such as "It's Been So Long" (2005, CDr, promo via Epitaph Europe), supported album tours but did not receive wide commercial release.[70] No major chart performance was noted for these releases, as the band's focus remained on underground punk and psychobilly circuits.
History
1996–1999: Formation
The HorrorPops were formed in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1996 by vocalist and upright bassist Patricia Day and guitarist Kim Nekroman. The pair met earlier that year at a music festival where Day's punk rock band Peanut Pump Gun opened for Nekroman's psychobilly outfit Nekromantix, leading them to collaborate on a new project blending their shared influences in punk and rockabilly.[12][13][14] To round out the initial lineup, the duo recruited drummer Henrik "Niedermeier" Stendahl from the local punk scene, forming a core trio that began informal rehearsals in Copenhagen basements and small venues. These sessions focused on developing a psychobilly sound characterized by upbeat rhythms, twangy guitars, and horror-themed lyrics, drawing from Nekroman's psychobilly roots and Day's punk energy. The band played their first local gigs in Denmark during 1996 and 1997, honing their raw, high-energy performances at underground clubs and festivals within the Copenhagen music community.[12][10][15] Recognizing the need for visual flair to complement their retro-horror vibe, Day incorporated go-go dancers into the live shows from the outset, enlisting friends Mille and Kamilla Vanilla (later, Naomi replaced Mille) to perform energetic routines inspired by 1960s pin-up aesthetics. This addition created a distinctive stage dynamic, turning early performances into theatrical events that emphasized burlesque-style movement alongside the music. By 1998, rhythm guitarist Casper "Caz The Clash" Holbek, a former bandmate of Stendahl from Strawberry Slaughterhouse, joined to expand the sound, marking the solidification of the band's early configuration before broader exposure.[12][14][16]2000–2003: Demo tape and signing
In 2000, HorrorPops recorded a seven-song demo at Ventura Recordings in Copenhagen, intended for use in a press kit, but it was leaked and circulated widely, leading to underground attention across Europe, particularly in punk and psychobilly circles.[14] Tracks such as "Ghouls" and "Psychobitches Outta Hell" quickly became hits on the Copenhagen club circuit and gained traction beyond Denmark through bootleg copies.[14] This exposure helped solidify the band's lineup, with core members Patricia Day on double bass and vocals, Kim Nekroman on guitar, and rhythm guitarist Caz the Clash providing stability, alongside go-go dancers Mille and Kamilla Vanilla, who added to their distinctive stage presence. Beginning in 2001, the band embarked on extensive European tours, performing relentlessly to build a dedicated fanbase within the punk and psychobilly scenes. These tours included numerous club shows across the continent, culminating in a notable performance at the Wild at Heart club in Berlin at the end of 2002, which further amplified their growing reputation.[14] The live energy and unique blend of psychobilly with burlesque elements from the go-go dancers drew crowds and fostered connections in underground venues, setting the stage for professional opportunities. By 2003, the momentum from the demo and tours attracted major label interest, leading to a signing with Hellcat Records after the band recorded six additional tracks at Ventura Recordings.[14] This period also saw a minor lineup shift when Caz the Clash departed due to family commitments and was replaced by Karsten from Strawberry Slaughterhouse, though the core trio of Day, Nekroman, and the rhythm section remained intact. In September 2003, HorrorPops released their debut singles as a vinyl EP featuring "Ghouls" and "Psychobitches Outta Hell" on Rancid Records, marking their entry into official releases.[17] With the Hellcat deal secured, the band began preparations for their initial U.S. tour, "Aloha from Hell," scheduled for late 2003 with nine shows in California and Arizona, signaling their expansion beyond Europe.[14]2004: Hell Yeah!
In 2004, HorrorPops recorded additional material for their debut studio album Hell Yeah! at Ventura Recording Studio in Denmark, combining six new tracks with seven earlier recordings to form a 13-song collection that blended psychobilly with punk and rockabilly elements.[14] The album was released on February 10, 2004, through Hellcat Records, marking the band's first full-length effort following their signing with the label.[18] Key tracks like "Ghouls," a bouncy early composition featuring tinny riffs and horror-themed lyrics, highlighted the album's fusion of energetic punk rhythms and rockabilly swagger, while songs such as "Girl in a Cage" incorporated ska influences and "Kool Flattop" evoked 1950s rock and roll vibes.[4] The release propelled HorrorPops into an extensive touring schedule, with the band performing approximately 110 shows across the United States and Europe that year.[14] They headlined their first U.S. tour, the "Aloha from Hell" outing, which included nine dates in California and Arizona, alongside a month-long European support slot for the Offspring and a subsequent 1.5-month headline run in Europe, culminating in sold-out performances at London's Astoria and the Troubadour in West Hollywood.[14] These tours, including appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and BBC1, helped solidify their international presence.[14] Early lineup adjustments continued into 2004, with drummer Henrik "Niedermeier" Stendahl— who had joined at the band's formation in 1996 from Strawberry Slaughterhouse—providing stable percussion amid shifts, including the departure of guitarist Karsten to focus on personal matters, prompting the announcement of a new guitarist after their final West Hollywood show.[12] Go-go dancer Mille also exited for schooling, replaced by Naomi.[14] Critics praised Hell Yeah! for its high-energy psychobilly sound, with reviewers noting Patricia Day's seductive vocals, infectious hooks in tracks like "Julia" and "Drama Queen," and a lively dual-guitar attack that captured the genre's punk-rockabilly essence.[19] Described as a "wonderfully produced, exciting, powerful and driving album of indie-flaired rockabilly," it was hailed as virtually faultless and a standout female-fronted entry in the style, contributing to the band's rising popularity in the U.S. through its blend of horror-infused themes and accessible energy.[20][4]2005–2008: Bring It On! and Kiss Kiss Kill Kill
In 2005, following the success of their debut album, the HorrorPops relocated from Denmark to Los Angeles, California, establishing the city as their base of operations to better access the broader U.S. music market and facilitate recording.[13][21] This move coincided with the release of their second studio album, Bring It On!, on September 13, 2005, via Hellcat Records.[22] The album incorporated stronger punk influences alongside their signature psychobilly sound, evident in tracks like the aggressive title song "Bring It On!" and the driving "Where You Can't Follow," which blended fast-paced riffs and energetic rhythms to appeal to punk audiences.[23][24] Production emphasized a raw, high-energy aesthetic that amplified the band's rockabilly roots with punk edge, marking a shift toward more confrontational songwriting.[25] The band embarked on extensive global tours from 2005 to 2007, solidifying their presence in the international punk scene. In 2005, they performed on the Vans Warped Tour across multiple U.S. dates, sharing stages with acts like Fall Out Boy and Avenged Sevenfold, which exposed them to larger alternative crowds.[26][27] By 2006, their itinerary expanded to include a European leg with stops at festivals such as the Close Up Festival in Stockholm and venues like Vera in Groningen, Netherlands, alongside tours in Canada and Asia.[28] These performances, often featuring go-go dancers to enhance their theatrical stage presence, helped build a dedicated following through high-energy sets blending punk aggression and rockabilly flair.[13] Lineup adjustments during this period included the addition of rhythm guitarist Geoff Kresge, formerly of Tiger Army and AFI, who joined in early 2005 to replace previous guitarist Karsten Jacobsen, bringing a punk-infused edge to the band's sound.[12] Drummer Henrik "Niedermeier" Stendahl remained a core member, providing steady percussion support since the band's formation, while vocalist and upright bassist Patricia Day and lead guitarist Kim Nekroman continued as anchors.[29] Kresge's tenure lasted until 2007, contributing to the albums and tours before departing.[30] The era culminated with the release of their third album, Kiss Kiss Kill Kill, on February 5, 2008, also on Hellcat Records, which explored themes of love and murder through a cinematic lens.[31] Recorded at Sound City Studios in Van Nuys, California, and Hell! Studios in Los Angeles, the album featured singles like the upbeat "Boot to Boot," maintaining the band's punk-psychobilly hybrid while adding new wave undertones for broader appeal; rhythm guitarist Sam Soto had joined in 2007 for this recording.[31] This period represented the band's commercial peak, with both albums gaining traction in alternative and punk scenes through strong reviews and festival exposure, establishing HorrorPops as a prominent act in the psychobilly revival.[21][32]2009–2021: Hiatus and sporadic activity
Following the release of their third studio album, Kiss Kiss Kill Kill, in February 2008, HorrorPops announced an indefinite hiatus, resulting in no new studio recordings for the next 13 years.[2][11] The band shifted focus from consistent album production to intermittent live engagements, allowing members to explore individual pursuits while preserving their established sound. Activity resumed sporadically in 2009 with a U.S. spring tour comprising over 20 dates, highlighted by festival slots at The Bamboozle in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and Hootenanny in Irvine, California.[33][34] The following year, 2010 saw 13 performances, including the "10 Days of the Dead" tour—a Halloween-themed U.S. run spanning California, Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico, ending at the Fox Theater in Pomona.[35][36] In 2011, the group played five shows, maintaining a presence in the psychobilly circuit without a full tour commitment.[36] Guitarist Kim Nekroman balanced these outings with his work in Nekromantix, which issued the album What Happens in Hell, Stays in Hell in August 2011. From 2012 to 2019, output dwindled significantly, with just one documented concert in 2014 and no major tours or releases.[36] This lull contrasted the band's earlier productivity, as they avoided extensive commitments amid personal and creative shifts.[37] The core trio—vocalist and bassist Patricia Day, guitarist Nekroman, and drummer Henrik "Niedermeier" Stendahl—remained unchanged, ensuring continuity in their lineup.[2] Signs of renewed momentum emerged in 2020 and 2021, with 11 and 13 shows respectively, primarily in the U.S., including a sold-out headline at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles on February 1, 2020, captured for their debut live album released the following year.[36][38] These one-off and regional appearances sustained fan interest without signaling a full return to intensive touring.[37]2022–present: Revival and ongoing challenges
In late 2022, the HorrorPops marked their revival from an extended hiatus with a series of U.S. performances, including multiple appearances at the When We Were Young festival in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 23 and 29, as well as shows at the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco, California, on October 19, the Fremont Country Club in Las Vegas on October 26, and the House of Blues in Anaheim, California, on October 27.[36] Following the singer Patricia Day's cancer diagnosis announced in March 2022, the band expressed intentions to schedule European tours for 2023 and 2024 while prioritizing her treatment and recovery.[7] However, these international plans did not come to fruition, with touring scaled back amid ongoing health challenges that also led to the cancellation of at least one U.S. festival appearance in 2022.[39] As of November 2025, the HorrorPops have released no new studio albums since their 2008 effort Kiss Kiss Kill Kill, instead emphasizing reissues of earlier works such as vinyl editions of Hell Yeah! in 2023 and Bring It On! in 2024 to sustain fan engagement.[3] The group's activity remains limited to occasional domestic shows and online updates, with no major tour dates announced for 2025 and a focus on the core members' dedication to preserving their legacy through live performances when feasible.[40]Musical style and image
Genre and influences
HorrorPops' music is primarily characterized by psychobilly, a fusion genre that combines the upright bass-driven rhythms and twangy guitar of rockabilly with the high-energy aggression of punk rock. This sound is evident in their use of slapping double bass and reverb-heavy instrumentation, creating a frantic, danceable intensity that distinguishes them within the punkabilly spectrum.[41] The band also incorporates elements of traditional rockabilly and straight punk rock, blending retro swing with raw, rebellious attitude.[42] Their influences draw from 1950s rockabilly pioneers, whose energetic style forms the foundation of psychobilly, as well as 1980s new wave acts like Blondie for melodic hooks and old-school punk bands such as The Cramps for horror-infused garage energy.[43][44] Additional inspirations include surf rock, ska, and pure rock 'n' roll, reflecting a broad palette that avoids strict genre confines.[41] Frontwoman Patricia Day has emphasized this eclecticism, describing their approach as uncommitted to any single style and rooted in classic rock 'n' roll.[41] Over time, HorrorPops evolved from a raw psychobilly core in their formative years to incorporating more polished pop-punk elements in later releases, adding catchy choruses and production sheen while retaining punk edge.[45] This progression allowed for greater accessibility without diluting their high-octane foundation.[46] Lyrically, the band frequently explores horror themes inspired by B-movie aesthetics, infusing songs with cinematic narratives of zombies, starlets, and thriller tropes drawn from films like those of Alfred Hitchcock.[47] This approach adds a playful, satirical layer to their punk-rockabilly blend, often referencing horror and thriller flicks to evoke a campy, rebellious vibe.[47]Visual aesthetic and stage presence
The HorrorPops' visual aesthetic draws heavily from retro pin-up girl imagery, particularly embodied by lead singer and bassist Patricia Day, who sports a style reminiscent of a "voluptuous, tattooed Bettie Page" with iconic black bangs, form-fitting 1950s A-line dresses, high heels, and extensive tattoos that align with burlesque and tattoo culture traditions.[48] This look blends feminine sensuality with punk rebellion, emphasizing body modification as a form of empowerment and subcultural identity.[2] Live performances incorporate go-go dancers—often tattooed women in coordinated outfits—who enhance the theatrical, horror-themed atmosphere by bobbing and weaving alongside Day, creating an immersive, campy spectacle that ties into the band's psychobilly roots.[49][2] The band's uniforms fuse punk leather jackets and cuffed jeans with rockabilly elements like polka-dot patterns, quiffs, and horror motifs such as skeletons, spiders, skulls, bats, and coffins, worn via band T-shirts, patch jackets, and vintage accessories to project a unified, edgy persona.[48] On stage, the HorrorPops deliver high-energy performances characterized by Day's dynamic slap bass technique on her ornate, technicolor upright bass, which she prowls with like a "zombie Gwen Stefani," fostering interactive crowd engagement through assertive movements, confident sexuality, and a "take-no-shit" attitude that invites audience participation.[49][2][48]Notable incidents
'Barbie doll' controversy
In December 2010, Patricia Day, lead singer of the HorrorPops, filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana against Mattel, Inc., Hard Rock Cafe International (USA), Inc., and Wonderama Toys, Inc.[50][51] The suit alleged violations of Day's right of publicity and false endorsement, claiming that a limited-edition "Hard Rock Barbie" doll released by Mattel in spring 2010 appropriated her likeness, appearance, style, and persona without authorization or compensation.[50][52] The doll, part of a rock 'n' roll-themed collection licensed from artists like Deborah Harry, Joan Jett, and Cyndi Lauper, featured long black hair styled in a 1950s pin-up fashion, heavy black eyeshadow, red lipstick, visible tattoos, fishnet stockings, red fingernails, a form-fitting pencil skirt, and an upright bass with decorative elements—elements that closely mirrored Day's on-stage rockabilly persona.[51][53] The doll was promoted in connection with a Hard Rock Hotel and Casino event in Las Vegas, explicitly tying its design to the psychobilly and punk-rockabilly aesthetic associated with HorrorPops.[50][54] Day, identifying as a feminist artist who sought to challenge traditional gender roles in rock music, argued that the unauthorized use conflicted with her values and caused personal distress, especially given Barbie's historical image.[51][53] Day sought injunctive relief to halt doll sales, along with unspecified damages and profits from the product.[54] The case, docketed as 1:10-cv-01689-RLY-MJD, was dismissed in part for lack of jurisdiction over certain defendants but otherwise resolved through a settlement, with no public admission of wrongdoing by Mattel or Hard Rock.[55] The controversy drew widespread media coverage in entertainment and music outlets, providing unexpected publicity for HorrorPops amid the band's extended hiatus from 2009 to 2021.[52][51][54]Patricia Day's cancer battle
On March 16, 2022, it was publicly revealed that Patricia Day, lead singer and upright bassist of the HorrorPops, had been recently diagnosed with cancer.[8] The diagnosis prompted immediate community support within the psychobilly and punk scenes, as Day faced not only the health challenge but also substantial medical costs associated with treatment in Los Angeles.[8] To address these expenses, a GoFundMe campaign titled "Help Patricia Day beat the crap out of cancer" was launched on March 13, 2022, organized by a close associate to cover past, current, and future medical bills, as well as potential ongoing needs for Day and her pets.[7] Day herself conveyed a defiant optimism in the campaign description, stating, "Cancer sucks! Medical bills are killers!!" while affirming her resolve to overcome the illness without fear or doubt.[7] The fundraiser highlighted the financial burdens of her care, underscoring how the costs threatened to hinder her recovery and the band's momentum following their post-hiatus revival. In August 2022, following surgery, Day received pathology results confirming she was cancer-free, though she would require monthly oncologist visits for the next year.[7] Despite the setback, Day and the HorrorPops adjusted their schedule to accommodate her treatment while maintaining activity, proceeding with limited U.S. tours in late summer and fall 2022, including festival appearances that demonstrated her commitment to performing.[8] Plans for European tours in 2023 and 2024 were also outlined, with modifications to ensure her health remained the priority, allowing the band to sustain their revival on a scaled-back basis.[8] These efforts reflected the band's resilience, as Day declared her intention to "kick cancer's ass" and continue touring without delay.[8] By October 2022, the group had successfully played shows, such as at the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco, where fans noted the emotional uplift from seeing Day on stage amid her health struggle.[56] By late 2022, Day was well enough to perform gigs with HorrorPops.[11] The cancer battle deeply affected fans, who rallied through donations and messages of encouragement, fostering a sense of solidarity that amplified the band's message of perseverance.[8] As of November 2025, Day remains in remission with the GoFundMe closed after raising over $49,000, and the band continues low-key operations.[7]Band members
Current lineup
The current lineup of HorrorPops consists of its longstanding core trio, which has driven the band's revival and performances since 2022.[56] Patricia Day serves as lead vocalist and upright bassist, while also acting as the band's founder and primary creative director. Day's dynamic stage presence and songwriting have been central to the group's psychobilly sound and aesthetic.[2][57] Kim Nekroman plays semi-acoustic guitar and provides backing vocals; as co-founder, he contributes to the band's musical arrangements and remains active with his other project, Nekromantix. His guitar work adds punk-infused energy to HorrorPops' live sets and recordings.[2][58] Henrik "Niedermeier" Stendahl handles drums, delivering the rhythmic foundation that underpins the band's high-energy performances. His steady percussion has supported HorrorPops through their post-hiatus tours, including dates in 2022.[2][56] This configuration powered the band's return to touring in 2022, with shows across the United States that highlighted their enduring chemistry and fan appeal.[56]Former members
The HorrorPops experienced several lineup changes in their early years, particularly with the addition and departure of rhythm guitarists, while maintaining core members Patricia Day on bass and vocals, Kim Nekroman on lead guitar, and Henrik "Niedermeier" Stendahl on drums.[3] Casper "Caz The Clash" Holbek joined as the band's rhythm guitarist in 1998, shortly after its formation, bringing experience from the Danish punk band Strawberry Slaughterhouse.[58][14] He contributed to the band's initial live performances and early recordings, helping solidify their psychobilly sound during a period of frequent touring in Europe. Holbek departed in 2003 to prioritize family responsibilities after becoming a father. Karsten Johansen, also formerly of Strawberry Slaughterhouse, replaced Holbek as rhythm guitarist from 2003 to 2004.[3][59] His tenure was brief and coincided with the band's preparation for their major-label debut, though specific contributions to recordings during this time are limited. Johansen left due to personal commitments.[60] Geoff Kresge, formerly of Tiger Army and AFI, replaced Johansen as rhythm guitarist from 2005 to 2006.[61] He contributed guitar to the album Bring It On! (2005) and co-wrote several tracks, enhancing the band's punk elements during their U.S. tours. Kresge departed in 2007 to rejoin Tiger Army.[30]Discography
Studio albums
HorrorPops have released three studio albums to date, all issued by Hellcat Records, an imprint of Epitaph Records. These albums showcase the band's evolution within psychobilly and punk rock, blending rockabilly rhythms with punk energy and thematic elements drawn from horror and B-movie aesthetics. Hell Yeah!, the band's debut full-length album, was released on February 10, 2004.[62] It contains 13 tracks, including "Julia," "Miss Take," and "Psychobitches Outta Hell." The album was produced by the band members themselves, with engineering credits to various contributors.[63] Recording took place primarily at Ventura Recording Studio in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1999 and 2003, with additional sessions at Hell! Studio and mixing at Steakhouse Studios in Los Angeles, California, and Ventura.[63] Bring It On!, the follow-up album, arrived on September 13, 2005. Featuring 13 tracks such as "Freaks in Uniforms," "Hit 'n Run," and the title track, it marked a shift toward more polished production while retaining the band's signature sound.[22] Produced by Brett Gurewitz of Bad Religion and Epitaph fame, the album was recorded at Sound City Studios in Van Nuys, California. It debuted at No. 23 on the Billboard Top Heatseekers chart.[64] Kiss Kiss Kill Kill, the band's third and most recent studio album as of 2025, was released on February 5, 2008.[31] The 13-track record, highlighted by songs like "Thelma & Louise," "MissFit," and the cinematic title track, emphasizes thematic storytelling inspired by film noir and pulp fiction.[65] It was produced by HorrorPops, with co-production by Pete Martinez and engineering support from the band.[66]Live albums
Live at the Wiltern, the band's first live album, was released on June 25, 2021, by Cleopatra Records.[6] This double album features 19 tracks spanning their catalog, recorded on February 29, 2020, at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles, California, capturing their energetic performances and theatrical stage presence.EPs and singles
The HorrorPops released several extended plays and singles throughout their career, primarily through Hellcat Records and affiliated labels, often in limited-edition vinyl and CD formats to complement their album cycles. These releases highlighted their psychobilly sound with punk influences, featuring tracks that later appeared on full-length albums or served as standalone promotional pieces.| Title | Year | Format | Label | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ghouls/Psychobitches Outta Hell | 2003 | 12" Vinyl, Limited Edition (1000 copies) | Rancid Records | Double-sided single with tracks "Ghouls" (A-side) and "Psychobitches Outta Hell" (B-side); hand-numbered copies; no CD version confirmed.[17] |
| Miss Take | 2004 | CD Single | Hellcat Records | Promotional release featuring the title track; also appeared on the album Hell Yeah!; radio edit version included.[67] |
| Miss Take | 2004 | 7" Vinyl, Picture Disc, Limited Edition | Hellcat Records | Promotional picture disc single with the title track.[68] |
| Heading for the Disco? | 2008 | CD Single, Promo | Hellcat Records | Promotional single with the title track (2:46 duration); originally from the 2005 album Bring It On!; marked "For Promotional Use Only."[69] |