As we commemorate International Women’s Month, it is essential to recognize and appreciate women’s remarkable talent and invaluable contributions to the punk music scene. Women-led punk bands have been making waves for years, but their impact has been particularly significant in recent times, owing to their exceptional musical prowess, electrifying live performances, and inspiring lyrical messages. Women have proven that they are more than capable of holding their own in a predominantly male-dominated genre and have, in many cases, surpassed many of their male counterparts in terms of creativity, originality, and musical skill. It is high time that we give credit where it is due and acknowledge the strong, diverse, and dynamic lineup of women who are shaping the face of punk music today.
The punk rock genre has always had a certain allure that has attracted a wide range of listeners. It’s thanks to trailblazing musicians like Patti Smith, Debbie Harry, Siouxie Sioux, and Courtney Love that many women have been inspired to pick up instruments and start their punk bands. These women, alongside all-female bands like The Slits, Pussy Riot, and Bikini Kill, have not only shattered gender stereotypes but have also paved the way for this new wave of female punk rockers that have followed in their footsteps.
But who should you be listening to?
Panic Shack
A four-piece band that has been active in the Welsh music scene since 2018, Panic Shack has gained popularity for their modern take on Riot Grrrl. Their tracks explore a range of topics that are relevant to women everywhere, such as unwanted male attention in songs like “Jiu Jits You,” “I Don’t Really Like It,” and dissecting what really gives “The Ick,” to addressing not wanting children with “Baby.” The band offers a refreshing, empowering voice for women, with chaotic and explosive live shows that bring these lyrics to life.
Dream Wife
Dream Wife is a band that self-describes as wanting to “dismantle the patriarchy.” Having released their third studio album, Social Lubrication, in June of last year, this International Women’s Month, they are a band to listen to. Dream Wife’s music is empowering for women, with songs like “Hot (Don’t Date A Musician),” which lists red flags in relationships, and “Somebody,” which encourages women to take ownership of their bodies, no matter their shape or size. Dream Wife are a true flag-bearer for women in punk.
Lambrini Girls
A band that is so unique that you can’t find another quite like them, Lambrini Girls, are becoming more and more popular with their live performances that can literally set rooms on fire. Their tracks deal with important issues, such as the methods in which the music industry responds to assault allegations through “Boys In The Band” and the shortcomings of governing bodies that claim to be working for the greater good but fall short with their actions. With a chaotically bold blend of music and activism, Lambrini Girls are one to wrap your ears around.
Sprints
Dublin-based four-piece Sprints have been making waves in the industry since releasing their debut album in January. The album, currently ranked as the “8th Best Album of 2024” on Metacritic, has garnered critical acclaim and helped solidify the band’s position as a rising star in the punk scene. With lead vocalist Karla Chubb at the helm, the album features “Cathedral,” exploring Chubb’s experiences growing up as a queer woman in the Catholic church. With a sound that blends the raw energy of Hole with the eclectic style of PJ Harvey, Sprints is a band that is both empowering and inspiring, offering a much-needed voice in today’s landscape.
Amyl And The Sniffers
Hailing from Australia, Amyl And The Sniffers are a four-piece that are widely considered to be one of the best live acts at present. Oozing confidence and charisma, their second album, Comfort To Me, showcases Amy Taylor reclaiming insults that have been thrown at her in the empowering track “Freaks To The Front” while additionally tackling the sensitive issue of knife crime and through the social commentary of “Knifey.” Offering a unique blend of punk rock and garage punk, Amyl And The Sniffers are a band that not only impresses but also leaves a lasting impression on listeners.
Big Joanie
A two-piece feminist punk band that has been gaining popularity for their unique blend of Riot Grrrl and post-punk. Big Joanie’s music is known for its intense, unapologetic fury, which not only serves as a form of expression but also highlights important social issues. The band’s sound is distinctive, setting them apart from their counterparts and providing a platform for Women of Color within the scene. A symbol of strength and resilience, Big Joanie represents women who are unafraid to express their individuality and stand up for their beliefs.
CHERYM
A powerful three-piece band originating from Derry, Northern Ireland, CHERYM’s members met while attending school. They shared a common goal of transforming the music industry by breaking its male-dominated mold. Their debut EP, released in 2018, was a success. Since then, the band has sold-out tours and performed at some of the world’s most renowned festivals. Their debut album was released this February, thought-provoking, with songs that challenge the traditional gender binary, “Binary Star,” as well as explore what life would be like if they were men, as in “If I Was A Man.” Keep an eye out for CHERYM, as they are a band that deserves attention.
