Helmet Brings Betty Back to Life in Minneapolis

Helmet descended upon Minneapolis’ Varsity Theater on March 10 for an electric celebration of the 30th anniversary of Betty, one of the most influential alternative metal albums of the 1990s.

Founded by guitarist/vocalist Page Hamilton in 1989 in New York City, the band quickly became a driving force in the alternative metal and post-hardcore scenes. It stood apart from its peers in the early ‘90s thanks to its signature blend of drop-tuned riffs, grinding guitars and bass lines, and jazz-infused rhythms.

The Helmet marquee at the Varsity Theater in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

Helmet’s 1992 album Meantime was a breakthrough success, earning gold certification and cementing its place as one of the most influential heavy bands of the era.

Two years later, Betty was released. It was a stylistic leap for Helmet, as it incorporated blues, jazz, and unconventional song structures while simultaneously managing to maintain the band’s signature heavy, bass-driven sound.

Helmet at the Varsity Theater. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

For example:

“Wilma’s Rainbow” opens the album with a tight, off-kilter groove, setting the tone for the band’s evolving approach to rhythm and melody.
“Milquetoast” (also featured on The Crow soundtrack, though spelled there as “Milktoast”) delivers Helmet’s signature stop-start riffing with a hypnotic, mechanical feel.
“I Know” leans into bluesy guitar riffs, something rarely heard in Helmet’s previous work.
“Biscuits for Smut” embraces a twisted funk-metal vibe, which proves the band’s ability to balance heavy riffs with unexpected grooves.
“Sam Hell” closes the album in a surreal, almost country-like detour to further showcase Betty‘s experimental nature.

Dan Beeman of Helmet at the Varsity Theater. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

While Betty was a departure from the relentless aggression of Meantime, it showcased Hamilton’s expanding musical influences and willingness to experiment.

Dave Case plays bass. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

The album didn’t achieve the same commercial success as Meantime, but it has become a cult favorite and is often praised for its uncompromising originality and musicianship.

On this evening of celebration, the band was supported by opening acts War on Women and Slomosa.

Baltimore’s War on Women was the first to take the stage. The band treated the audience with a potent blend of hardcore punk and feminist themes. The high-energy set seemed to resonate with the crowd, as there was more engagement than is typically seen with an opener.

Shawna Potter growls. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

Lead singer Shawna Potter’s commanding stage presence and politically charged lyrics appeared to get the audience ready for Helmet’s performance. At the end of War on Women’s set, Potter said, “We have free contraception at the merch table. Take as much as you need—I mean it.”

Next up was Norwegian rockers Slomosa, which continued the intensity by delivering its signature “tundra rock” sound. The foursome from Bergen seemed pleased to be playing in Minneapolis, as lead singer Ben Berdous noted it was their first time in Minnesota.

“We are from Norway…I think there are a lot of Norwegians here!” he said, and the crowd cheered in agreement.

The band enveloped the audience in grungy punk rock melodies with which many seemed to be familiar. At the end of the set, Berdous exclaimed, “See you up on the second floor [at the merch table], all of my Norwegian relatives!”

Slomosa at the Varsity Theater. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

Finally, it was time for headliners, and Helmet commanded the stage with a nostalgic and invigorating performance. Celebrating the three decades since Betty’s release, the band played the record in its entirety, much to the delight of long-time fans.

Kyle Stevenson drums for Helmet at the Varsity Theater. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

Frontman Hamilton did not speak a word, other than song lyrics, for the first 48 minutes of the show. Once all 14 tracks were complete, he told the crowd, “Thank you very much. That was the Betty album.”

Highlights were the classics, “Wilma’s Rainbow,” “Milquetoast,” and “I Know.” Each was delivered with the raw intensity that has defined Helmet’s sound.

Page Hamilton of Helmet at the Varsity Theater in Minneapolis. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

Besides Hamilton, Helmet has had numerous lineup changes over the years. The band this night consisted of Minneapolis guitarist and vocalist Dan Beeman, bassist Dave Case (from Wisconsin), and drummer Kyle Stevenson.

Page Hamilton of Helmet. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

The Varsity Theater’s intimate setting allowed for a profound connection between the band and the audience, which Hamilton said made this stop on the tour particularly memorable.

“I like this venue a lot; it’s really cool,” Hamilton said near the end of the set.