Missoula Band Silkworm Returns for Rare Hometown Show

Growing up in Missoula, there were plenty of chances to catch great live music at places that, for a lot of us, still feel legendary, and it wasn’t expensive either. I remember being in high school and catching shows at Jay’s Upstairs and at Crickets, which was one of those rare under-21 spots where you could still go see live bands. 

Iconic Venues: Jay’s and Crickets

Every once in a while, if I could afford it, I’d make it to the Wilma Theater to catch bigger bands. That always felt like a special night out. 

The Rise of Silkworm: A Local Legend

Around that same time, a local band out of Missoula, Ein Heit was making noise. They eventually changed their name to Silkworm in 1987, and moved away from Missoula in 1990. But if you were around then, you probably remember them. 

READ MORE: Kettlehouse Amphitheater’s 2026 Lineup

Three of the original band members attended Missoula’s Hellgate High School. Silkworm would eventually work with fellow Hellgate High alum producer Steve Albini to record multiple times over their career. Silkworm broke up in 2005 after the tragic death of their drummer Michael Dahlquist.

Silkworm Returns to Their Roots  

Now, they’re back. 

Silkworm has announced a show in Missoula on August 25 at The Showroom at the Zootown Arts Community Center (The ZACC). 

For a lot of us, this hits a very specific kind of nostalgia. This was one of those bands that felt accessible. They weren’t just names on a poster. They were people you could run into, talk to, and shake hands with. They were a little older than me at the time, but still relatable. They made it feel like being on that stage wasn’t some impossible dream. 

READ MORE: The Wilma Theater Lineup 2026

The ZACC isn’t a huge venue, which means this one could fill up fast. And when the lights go down that night, don’t be surprised if the crowd looks a little different than it did back in the day. A few more gray hairs, sure, but probably the same appreciation for the music. 

Whether you make it or not, it’s one of those shows that reminds you just how strong Missoula’s music scene has always been, and how those connections to local bands can stick with you for years.