Rebirth, reinvention, and redefining one’s identity are the central themes that laid the groundwork for Los Angeles-based rock band, DAME. With their dynamic, theatrical live show, they create a universe that invokes the spirit medieval knights, 1920’s Cabaret, and revolutionary soldiers (or ‘SOULdiers’ as they affectionally call their audience). With a deep- seated love for bands like Queen, Led Zeppelin, and The Beatles, DAME reignites the raw spirit of rock and roll with the humor and splendor of musical theater, the sophistication of classical music, and the humanity of folk & blues.
DAME officially formed in the Fall of 2024 through the collaboration of singer-songwriter Veronica Swift and drummer/producer Brian Viglione (The Dresden Dolls) who Swift cites as a major influence on her since age 13. Viglione discovered Veronica through her cover of The Dresden Dolls’ “Sing.” Soon after, they met in September of 2021, but their connection deepened once Viglione recognized her true desire to express herself through her original rock music which remained unheard due to her established Jazz career. After joining her solo band and embarking on two successful world tours in ’23 and ’24 where Swift received the honor of Knight in the Order of Arts and Letters from The French Republic, the demand for Swift’s original repertoire grew, as did Swift and Viglione’s relationship, and so begins this new chapter with DAME.
This band’s 5-piece lineup consists of Veronica Swift (lead vocals/keybaords), Brian Viglione (drums/vocals/guitar), Kyle Reinhart (lead guitar), Alexis Angel (keyboards/rhythm guitar/ vocals), and Jonny Heinz (bass guitar).
Following the release of their trailer video “Dreamsong” on July 15, 2025, they performed their debut show at The Viper Room in Los Angeles on September 5. This tour marks the release of their first single and video “Get Tough.” Their second single, “Get On The Groove Line,” is available October 16.
To support and find out more information on tours and releases, join the DAME SOULdiers mailing list at DAMEtheband.com and follow @damebandofficial on Instagram.