Tag: riot grrrl

Following a host of super amazing bands playing for us recently – including LIINES, Witch Fever, The Magnettes, H.Grimace, Ghum and Dream Nails  – we were back at The Finsbury on Friday for another jam-packed night of the best new music.

Kicking off the night, Bad Sidekick kindly stepped in to fill the shoes of Salvation Jayne who sadly had to pull out. But what a way to start the night: the trio absolutely blow us away. As charismatic front-woman Cooper Rose oozes her seething, Northern twang over immense, thrashing beats and raging riffs, I’m reminded of early Arctic Monkeys with a unique, gritty edge. New favourite band alert!

Next up Brixton’s Coltana bring their visceral energy to the stage, delivering their riotous punk-rock anthems. Propelled by frenzied, whirring hooks and the magnetic charm of Cat’s impassioned spoken word vocals, it’s a set filled with wit and infectious energy as the band treat us to their wonderfully ferocious offerings.

Penultimate band of the night, Weekend Recovery, draw in a loyal army of fans with their contagious energy and endearing warmth. Racing with uplifting hooks and the angst-driven power of front-woman Lori’s vocals, each track is an instantly catchy, perfect slice of punk-pop at its finest.

I’ve been waiting a long time to see headliners The Menstrual Cramps. and – on finally having the honour – they don’t disappoint. From the topical, tongue-in-cheek wit of tracks such as ‘Hashtag Sad Penis’ and the empowering, feel-good vibes of ‘Make Girls Feel Good’, to the immense, politically-charged force of ‘Frack Off’ and ‘Cull The Tories’, their fantastic, fist-clenching force never ceases. As Emilia leads the band with her uncensored, genuine, seething passion, The Menstrual Cramps give a welcome voice to the anger we’re all feeling about the way society’s headed. An intense outpouring of emotion, The Menstrual Cramps’ set combines activism with musical prowess, reminding us all why we need bands like this now more than ever.

Huge thanks to the four AMAZING bands who played for us on Friday. And catch us next month at The Finsbury on 13th July, when we’ll be joined by The Empty Page, MeMe Detroit, Jemma Freeman and The Cosmic Something and Jetstream Pony!

Words: Mari Lane / @marimindles
Photos: Em Burfitt / @fenderqueer