Semi Precious Weapons

Semi Precious Weapons

Semi Precious Weapons is a rock group from New York City, formed in 2006. The group centres on Justin Tranter on vocals, with Stevy Pyne on guitar, Cole Whittle on bass and Dan Crean on drums. The verified membership lists Justin Tranter, and the group remains active.

Style and approach

The band describes its sound as “Filthy Glamour” and its outlook as “Dirty Showbiz”. It is associated with glam rock, glam, alternative rock and rock.

Formation and lineup changes

Semi Precious Weapons is formed by Berklee College of Music graduates Justin Tranter, Cole Whittle, Dan Crean and Aaron Lee Tasjan. Stevy Pyne replaces Tasjan on guitar in November 2008.

Recordings and releases

The band’s first album, We Love You, is produced by Tony Visconti after BP Fallon brings him in. Tranter funds the album through jewellery sales, and it is first issued as a free download before being re-released by Razor & Tie. The group later signs to Interscope Records and records You Love You, which is released in 2010.

Live work and media appearances

Semi Precious Weapons serves as a special guest for Lady Gaga’s The Monster Ball and also opens for her on the Monster Ball Tour from 2009 to 2011. The band appears in the video for Lady Gaga’s “Telephone”.

Notable songs and recognition

The band’s self-titled song “Semi Precious Weapons” reaches number one on New Zealand radio station The Edge. “Magnetic Baby” appears as a downloadable track in Rock Band 2.

Justin Tranter

Outside the band, Justin Tranter has a jewellery line called “Fetty”, sold at Barneys New York, with designs that include weapons, hearts and diamond braille. Tranter also appears as a coach on MTV’s MADE.

Public attention

The band draws attention in the UK in January 2008 after Kate Moss attends a show at London’s Death Disco club and dances with Tranter. Vogue describes the group as “unashamedly crass and deliciously animated”.