If you’re a fan of grunge and riot grrrl music, then you’re likely familiar with the raw and powerful sound of Babes in Toyland. Known for their intense energy and unapologetic attitude, this band has inspired many others in the same genre. Below, you’ll find a list of 18 bands and artists that capture a similar spirit and sound.
1. L7
L7 is an iconic band in the grunge and punk scenes, known for their aggressive guitar riffs and rebellious lyrics. Popular songs include “Pretend We’re Dead” and “Shove,” and their album Bricks Are Heavy is a must-listen.
2. Hole
Fronted by the enigmatic Courtney Love, Hole blends grunge with punk rock to create a unique sound. Notable tracks include “Celebrity Skin” and “Doll Parts,” and their album Live Through This is critically acclaimed.
3. The Gits
The Gits are known for their raw, emotional performances and gritty sound. Songs like “Second Skin” and “Another Shot of Whiskey” are fan favorites, and the album Frenching the Bully showcases their talent.
4. 7 Year Bitch
This band combines punk rock energy with grunge aesthetics, producing hits like “The Scratch” and “Lorna.” Their album Sick ‘Em is a great introduction to their music.
5. Bikini Kill
As pioneers of the riot grrrl movement, Bikini Kill’s music is both politically charged and sonically powerful. “Rebel Girl” and “Double Dare Ya” are standout tracks, and their compilation album The Singles is essential listening.
6. Sleater-Kinney
Known for their intricate guitar work and dynamic vocals, Sleater-Kinney has produced numerous hits like “Modern Girl” and “Jumpers.” Their album Dig Me Out is a fan favorite.
7. Veruca Salt
Veruca Salt gained fame with their catchy melodies and grunge-infused sound. “Seether” and “Volcano Girls” are popular tracks, and their album American Thighs is highly regarded.
8. Team Dresch
This queercore band mixes punk and grunge elements, creating powerful songs like “Fagetarian and Dyke” and “Freewheel.” Their album Personal Best is a standout in the genre.
9. The Breeders
Formed by Kim Deal of the Pixies, The Breeders have a distinctive sound that blends alternative rock with grunge. Hits like “Cannonball” and “Divine Hammer” are beloved by fans, and the album Last Splash is a classic.
10. Lunachicks
Lunachicks are known for their high-energy performances and punk rock attitude. Songs like “Jerk of All Trades” and “Less Teeth More Tits” are fan favorites, and their album Babysitters on Acid is a must-listen.
11. Patti Smith
While more rooted in punk rock, Patti Smith’s influence on the grunge and riot grrrl movements is undeniable. Tracks like “Because the Night” and “Gloria” are iconic, and her album Horses is legendary.
12. PJ Harvey
PJ Harvey’s music often blends grunge, punk, and alternative rock, resulting in a unique and powerful sound. Popular songs include “Down by the Water” and “Rid of Me,” and her album To Bring You My Love is critically acclaimed.
13. The Distillers
Fronted by Brody Dalle, The Distillers combine punk rock with grunge influences to create hits like “Drain the Blood” and “City of Angels.” Their album Coral Fang is a fan favorite.
14. Garbage
Garbage’s music blends alternative rock with grunge elements, resulting in hits like “Stupid Girl” and “Only Happy When It Rains.” Their self-titled debut album is a must-listen.
15. Alice in Chains
While primarily known as a grunge band, Alice in Chains’ dark and heavy sound has influenced many riot grrrl bands. Songs like “Man in the Box” and “Rooster” are iconic, and their album Dirt is a classic.
16. Nirvana
Nirvana’s influence on the grunge and alternative rock scenes is monumental. Tracks like “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and “Come as You Are” are legendary, and their album Nevermind is essential.
17. Sonic Youth
Sonic Youth’s experimental approach to rock music has influenced countless bands in the grunge and riot grrrl movements. Popular songs include “Kool Thing” and “Teen Age Riot,” and their album Daydream Nation is critically acclaimed.
18. The Runaways
As one of the first all-female rock bands, The Runaways paved the way for many grunge and punk bands. Hits like “Cherry Bomb” and “Queens of Noise” are iconic, and their self-titled debut album is a must-listen.
