by Lillie Jacob
Sick of feeling like you’re not represented in current music? We got you! The following are all badass bands that are female fronted, and many that are queer and WOC fronted.
Big Thief
Based in New York, featuring Adrianne Lenker, Buck Meek, Max Oleartchik, and James Krivchenia, Big Thief is classic indie rock with folk roots from a queer, female perspective. If you’re looking for excellent late-night tunes or road-trip music, Big Thief is for you. Song recommendations include: Shark Smile, Objects, and Mythological Beauty.
Slothrust
Slothrust is 4-piece music project consisting of Leah Wellbaum on vocals and guitar, Kyle Bann on bass, and Will Gorin on drums. Their style blends alternative rock with indie, creating a wide range of musical experiences. If you’re in a depressive episode or want to scream with something playing in the background, Slothrust is the way to go. Song recommendations include: Some Kind of Cowgirl, Double Down, and Birthday Cake for a full range of their sound.
Diet Cig
Self-described as “two homies just making tunes and eggs on the regs,” Diet Cig is an independent pop punk duo with Alex Luciano on guitar/vocals and Noah Bowman on drums. Their songs involve yelling about feminism, college, and love. If any of those apply to you, and you’re into an up-beat pop punk sound, Diet Cig is an excellent choice. Song recommendations include: Maid of the Mist, Tummy Ache, and Apricots.
Naked Naps
Naked Naps is an indie punk duo from Raleigh, NC, and it should be noted that they have the best punk song titles of all time. Their music is loud, full of melodic guitar licks, and contains lyrics with a punch. If you ever had an emo phase or just have a lot of feelings, you should definitely consider getting some Four Lokos and blaring Naked Naps in your garage. Song recommendations include: Eisenhower You Are the Father of the Interstate Highway System, Morgan Freeman Glory Days, and John Galm Bike Crash.
Bad Bad Hats
This indie rock piece from Minneapolis consists of Kerry Alexander, Chris Hoge, and Connor Davison. Their sound is right out of the 90s, with pop lyrics and simple rock instrumentals, but don’t underestimate them. While it may be somewhat simplistic, it’s a mature blend of genres. If you’re going through a break-up or want to cry about your exes in a cathartic way, give them a listen. Song recommendations include: Midway, Psychic Reader, and Nothing Gets Me High.
Mitski
Mitski, short for Mitski Miyawaki, is nothing short of a superstar in indie right now. Her incredibly candid lyrics paired with emotionally charged instrumentals create music that will make you cry, scream, and eventually feel better. If you want to bop to something in your car or get better acquainted with yourself and your feeling, Mitski is for you. Song recommendations include: Nobody, Washing Machine Heart, and Lonesome Love.
Beach Bunny
Beach Bunny, composed of singer-songwriter Lili Trifilio and backing musicians Matt Henkels on guitar and Jon Alvarado, is everything modern pop-punk should be. Their sound is upbeat, filled with dreamy guitar parts, clever lyrics, and just the right amount of whine. If you’re missing summer, and well, maybe your ex, get those feelings out to the soundtrack that Beach Bunny provides. Song recommendations include: Sports, Painkiller, and Jenny.