Photography: Bikini Kill at Pier 17
Posted: by The Editor
Bikini Kill are back, and it’s bittersweet. The band’s message of female empowerment and sharing of stories regarding their experiences as cisgender females still ring true today. In the wake of current events, specifically the overturning of Roe v Wade this year, Bikini Kill’s message and lyrically content still feel fresh, even close to 30 years later. The opening lyrics to the song “Candy” hit hard, “I swallow my pride.” While playing hits such as “Feels Blind,” “Carnival,” and more, Kathleen Hanna and Tobi Vail’s vocals cut brutally with each breath. Why I say that their performance was bittersweet, is that it’s amazing for a band like Bikini Kill who’s music as marinated since the 90’s is back. However, the fact that we are living in a time where their message about ownership over women’s bodies is still very much so prevalent is sad. As Kathleen Hanna sung “Feels Blind” I could tell that the audience was taking in these lyrics like medicine. The spectrum of age within the audience is indicative of how their music has carried throughout generations. It was quite the show to see.
Bikini Kill
Photos by Sarah Knoll
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