L7

The band initially formed in 1985, by friends Suzi Gardner (guitars, vocals) and Donita Sparks (guitars, vocals), before later being joined by Dee Plakas (drums) and Jennifer Finch (bass), after a number years of an ever-changing lineup. In 1988, they signed with Epitaph Records, releasing their self-titled debut that same year, followed by “Smell the Magic” in 1991, released on Sub Pop.

Their punk/metal hybrid failed to garner much success but following Nirvana’s breakout hit with “Nevermind,” alternative music found a surge of popularity. With 1992’s “Bricks are Heavy” (on Slash Records), their trashy punk sound broke into the charts, peaking at the top spot on Billboard’s Heatseekers Album charts. L7 brought a female voice into the grunge movement, also becoming involved in activism, often outspoken and outrageous in their public displays. They set up the non-profit ‘Rock for Choice’ organisation, providing a platform to raise support for women’s rights through annual concerts.

1994’s “Hungry For Stink” failed to live up to the success of its predecessor, yet L7 remained a respected act in alternative music. Releases and tours continued yet L7 were unable to maintain momentum and they eventually decided to depart on an indefinite hiatus in 2001. Nonetheless, L7 had helped provide a female voice in alternative music, inspiring the likes of Sleater-Kinney and the Donnas to also make raucous punk rock that challenged patriarchy and the status quo of alternative music. Along with the likes of Bikini Kill, they epitomised the riot grill movement that developed during the 1990s, which was continued in the following decade through bands such as Pussy Riot and Savages. As of 2014, they announced their return to music, revamping their act to the delight of old and new fans alike.