Kat Stratford's Modern Playlist
The iconic movie “10 Things I Hate About You” took Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” and brought us the new and improved Katarina Stratford, an unapologetic feminist and lover of riot grrrl music. The movie features and references many classic girl bands such as Bikini Kill and The Raincoats and ultimately shows that they are much more than just “chicks who can’t play their instruments” as Patrick Verona would say.
But say that the events of “10 Things” took place today. Who would beloved protagonist Kat be listening to in the age of streaming? The good news is that riot grrrl music is far from dead, and I’ve compiled a playlist of modern artists that I think give classics like Le Tigre and Bratmobile a run for their money.
Boy Band by Doll Skin- Starting off the playlist with a bang is the all-girl punk band Doll Skin. Their sound contains all the nostalgia and breakneck speed of pop-punk but adds an undeniable metal element with Sydney Dolezal’s powerful voice. Her intense vocals on their songs “Persephone” and “Boy Band” firmly put to rest the debate of whether or not girls can sing metal.
You Don’t Love Me Like You Should by Hey Violet- Although Hey Violet changed musical direction after their first EP “I Can Feel It”, they still made a significant contribution to female-led rock that should not be overlooked. Despite there not being a single bad song on the EP, “You Don’t Love Me Like You Should” stands out because it's in-your-face girl power attitude.
Act the Part by Cherri Bomb- Cherri Bomb did net get enough time to shine as a band before their unfortunate breakup (and re-brand into Hey Violet). The one EP, one single and one album they released mainly consisted of the band experimenting and finding their voice, and every single song is bursting with talent and potential. “Act the Part” shows off their musicality in full force with ambitious, full choruses and eloquently written verses.
Heaven Knows by The Pretty Reckless- This anthemic song was written by iconic “Gossip Girl” actor Taylor Momsen. Beyond her acting skill, Momsen has a knack for writing effortlessly catchy grunge rock that could be played from a beat up speaker at a skatepark. It’s not only the gritty guitar that gives The Pretty Reckless their distinct sound, Momsen’s abrasive yet pleasant voice ties it all together flawlessly.
I Threw Glass at My Friend’s Eyes and Now I’m on Probation by Destroy Boys- Looking past their penchant for humorous names, Destroy Boys should be the poster band for modern riot grrrl music. They check all the boxes: radical feminism, chaotic songwriting and shouty lyrics. Their songs almost sound out of place through headphones or a car stereo, as they’re so clearly written to be played in underground venues with a crowd of girls singing along.