Unfortunately, the Banned From Utopia tour cannot take place this year. A new date is being sought for 2026, and ticket holders will be informed as soon as possible.
Please find the band’s statement below:
Dear friends, fans, and extended family of Banned From Utopia,
Due to an overwhelming amount of adverse and unpredictable events that have transpired in recent weeks, we have come to the difficult decision to postpone our upcoming We’re Only In It For The Euros fall tour of Europe. We are currently working with our European promoters to reschedule the dates for late spring/early summer 2026. It is our intention to return stronger than ever and deliver shows worthy of the most loyal Zappa fans on the planet. We are as disappointed as you are by these developments and appreciate your understanding and continued unwavering support.
“Music Is The Best!”
– Scott, Ray, Chad, Robbie, Nick, and Jamie
Banned From Utopia is a musical supergroup consisting of former band members of Frank Zappa's legendary backing band, The Mothers of Invention, and other collaborations with Zappa.
The band was formed in the 90s as a tribute to Zappa after his death in 1993. The name is a playful reference to Zappa's 1983 album The Man From Utopia. The band members are musicians who directly contributed to Zappa's rich musical legacy and are known for their virtuosity and versatility.
Banned From Utopia brings Zappa's complex compositions to life with a mix of technical perfection, humor and improvisation, entirely in the spirit of the master. Their concerts combine classic Zappa songs with fresh interpretations, immersing both seasoned fans and new listeners in the unique musical world Zappa created. The band tours internationally and is praised for their ability to perform Zappa’s music with precision and passion, while adding their own artistic flair. They are not only a symbol of Zappa’s legacy, but also of the enduring power of creative collaboration and musical mastery.
Line-up: Nick Chargin - Chad Wackerman - Ray White - Scott Thunes - Robbie Mangano - Jamie Kime
Edit September 4, 2025:
Dear friends and fans of Banned From Utopia, we are very sad to announce that, due to unforeseen circumstances, our friend and brother Robert Martin will not be joining us on our upcoming European 'We're Only In It For The Euros' tour. In the spirit of "the shows must go on", we are very pleased to have the multitalented Nick Chargin stepping in on vocals and keys. Nick is the leader, founder, and musical director of the Northern California-based Stinkfoot Orchestra, and a staunch advocate of preserving the vast Frank Zappa legacy. Since 2019, Stinkfoot Orchestra has been electrifying FZ fans with their deep song list and 14-piece lineup that has featured various Zappa alumni, including BFU's own Ray White. We look forward to working with Nick, and seeing all of you in a few weeks!
Music Is The Best!
-Scott, Ray, Chad, Robbie, and Jamie
