If all girls started a band the world would change. That’s the belief of Bikini Kill, the band credited with instigating the Riot Grrrl movement in the early '90s with their political lyrics, zines and live show. Now after more than 20 years, Bikini Kill are back and their fierce feminist punk music and message are as important now as they were then.
Bikini Kill tackled rape culture, female solidarity and the pursuit of pleasure in lead singer Kathleen Hanna’s confrontational sing-song vocals, backed by abrasive, lo-fi playing. They actively encouraged women and girls to start bands as a means of cultural resistance. Inspired by seeing Babes in Toyland play live, the band attempted to incite female participation and build feminist community via the punk scene. They used touring to create an underground network between girls who played music, put on shows and made fanzines. This independent media-making and informal network created a forum for multiple female voices to be heard.
Fast forward to 2023 and their hardcore sound is being introduced to a new generation – and we need this sort of music more than ever.
This event is standing room only, and may contain haze and strobe lighting.