3

3 is the fourth studio album by U.S. punk-folk band Violent Femmes, released in early 1989. The songs were performed by the three members of the band playing only drums, bass and guitar, with the addition of keyboards and saxophone. Critical reception Trouser Press wrote that "Gano’s songwriting and delivery have their usual odd character and some of the old passion, but the Femmes don’t seem to be making much progress or impact in any direction here." Chris Woodstra of AllMusic noted that the fans of the band's early days would "appreciate the slightly stripped-back acoustic production." The Los Angeles Times wrote that "3 often comes off as a pale, precious shadow of the Femmes’ 1983 debut album." The Rolling Stone Album Guide deemed the album "a jumbled stylistic grab bag." Track listing Personnel Gordon Gano – guitar, vocals Brian Ritchie – bass guitar Victor DeLorenzo – drums Sigmund Snopek III – keyboards Peter Balestrieri - baritone saxophone Warren A. Bruleigh – Co-Producer, Engineer Matt Lane – Assistant Engineer, Carriage House Bill Smith – Assistant Engineer, Home Base Bernie Grundman – Mastering © 1988 Slash Records ℗ 1988 Slash Records, P.O. Box 48888, Los Angeles, CA 90048. Manufactured and distributed by Warner Bros. Records Inc., a Warner Communications Company. Recorded at the Carriage House, Stamford, CT, except track 12 recorded at Home Base, NYC. All songs © 1988 Gorno Music ASCAP