It is completely plausible that Vivien Goldman’s book “Revenge of the She-Punks” names Big Joanie as one of the most important bands of the current feminist punk scene: As black queer women in the rock business, Stephanie Phillips, Estella Adeyeri and Chardine Taylor-Stone are almost automatically a political one statements.
Musically, Big Joanie don’t let themselves be harnessed to any cart – and they’re not in any hurry either: The band was founded in 2013, and their debut album SISTAHS was released four years ago. On BACK HOME, Big Joanie, who have already toured with Bikini Kill and St. Vincent, present themselves as a mature trio that goes about their business with great self-confidence. The sound is heavy (but not ponderous!), bass and drums form a darkly rumbling blues-rock base overlaid with grunge and post-punk guitar riffs and Philips’ nasally stretched vocals.
Explicitly lesbian love song “In My Arms” has a lively guitar melody reminiscent of The Cure, while wry “Happier Still” quotes alternative rock a la skunk Anansie. But Big Joanie are also big R’n’B and synthpop fans, which they show on the single “Sainted”. Big Joanie are at peace knowing that revolution is coming with them. They don’t even have to yell for that.
SIMILAR REVIEWS
Phoenix :: Alpha Zulu
The clever pop from Paris sounds more thoughtful than last time.
First Aid Kit :: Palomino
The ruins are still in sight, but folk rock is galloping towards the pop horizon.
Hawa :: Hadja Bangoura
The New York producer and singer combines a classical education and unbelievable pop sensitivity to the seminal Afro-Art-R’n’B.
SIMILAR ARTICLES
Album of the week: Florence + the Machine, Kat Frankie and Perel
This week we’re reviewing the new records from three amazing artists: Florence + the Machine, Kat Frankie and Perel.
Music from Swan Song (stream on Apple+)
What is the name of the music from the movie Swan Song?
Spider-Man: No Way Home: Multiverse, Metaplane Humor & Marvel Trailer
The new Marvel film “Spider-Man: No Way Home” promises the usual impressive superhero spectacle. In addition, fans of the old Spider-Man films will get their money’s worth this time. Is that enough to pick up people outside of the Marvel Bubble?