In 1984, WAX TRAX! RECORDS licensed its 4th release, a 12” by seminal Belgian band Front 242. Entitled Endless Riddance the record was the first US release for the band, and the beginning of an important relationship between the independent Chicago label and the four members from Brussels. 2024 marks 40 years of this friendship and the closing chapter of the story with the band announcing, “Black Out,” their final shows ever. The U.S. leg kicks off on September 6 in St. Petersburg, FL and will culminate with a week-long party, presented by WAX TRAX! in Chicago, IL from November 11 through November 17. The events will include a Front 242 Retrospective Exhibit, a private bus tour of significant Wax Trax & Front 242 Chicago landmarks, entrance to the band’s soundcheck and much more. Full details are listed below and tickets are available here.
On June 7 WAX TRAX! RECORDS will release The 2024 Anniversary pressing of Endless Riddance. The record contains the original 3 tracks with original US art. A limited clear pressing will also be available as well as a limited fan bundle. Pre-order the album here. Additionally, a limited smoke grey pressing of Endless Riddance, with an alternative jacket, will be made available to special VIP fans during the Front 242 final week in Chicago November 11-17. It can be found here. This new pressing marks the beginning of a renewed partnership between Wax Trax! and Front 242 as the Chicago label begins a series of reissues coming in the next year.
“BLACK OUT – THE FINAL U.S. WEEK” FURTHER DETAILS (WITH MORE TO BE CONFIRMED). TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION HERE.
November 11 – 17
- The Front 242 Retrospective Exhibit: To showcase Front 242’s history and influence on the early electronic EBM, industrial and dance scene, WAX TRAX! Records has curated a retrospective exhibit that covers over 40 years of the Belgian electronic pioneers. This exhibit will include special items from the band’s personal archives, the extensive Wax Trax! archives, and never before seen images by photographers from around the world.
- The Front 242 Pop-Up Bar – A pop-up bar selling exclusive Front 242 merch including commemorative beer, coffee, and posters. Locations TBA
November 13
- The US premiere of BODY MACHINE MUSIC – BODY MACHINE MUSIC is a documentary by director Pietro Anton featuring many EBM pioneers and prime movers such as DAF, Front 242, A Split-Second and many others. There will be a panel discussion and audience Q&A with the band directly following the screening. Find the trailer here.
November 14
- A Private Bus Tour – WAX TRAX! owner, Julia Nash, and Front 242 member Richard 23 will host a private and intimate bus tour around Chicago of significant Wax Trax & Front 242 Chicago landmarks. Along the way they will discuss the influential history of both the band and the label. The tour will start the current WAX TRAX! label and includes a stop at the band’s first US show, the original Wax Trax! location, and other surprises along the way.
- Meet & Greet – meet & Greet the band for signings and photo opportunities.
- DJ set by Richard23 & Patrick Codenys of Front 242 – time and location TBA
November 16
- Private access to Front 242’s soundcheck at the METRO – Front 242 has never opened up their soundcheck to fans…until now. This will be a special behind the scenes peek into what goes into the band’s production and live stage show.
Find more information and tickets to all events around WAX TRAX! Records “Black Out – The Final U.S. Week” here.
Watch the video for Front 242’s fan-favorite and club anthem “Headhunter” here:
