Following the hard-hitting Brutalised, Vagina Dry reveal a more melodic side on Redacted, the second single from their self-titled EP. After appearing on the line-up of LOUD WOMEN Fest Australia in 2025, the Ōtepoti/Dunedin band continue to prove that they can be just as incisive when shifting gears. The track forms part of 4EPs, a collection featuring music by Sivle Talk, Sogg, U-No Juno and Vagina Dry, issued as a double 12-inch vinyl release by new label DUN Records.
At under two minutes, “Redacted” makes the most of every second. Its minimalist, lo-fi punk retains the defiant energy of riot grrrl while channelling it into something more danceable, catchy and theatrical. A nervy, playful guitar riff, simple yet energetic drums and a prominent bassline accompany El’s vocals, which sit closer to spoken delivery, mockery and collective shouting than conventional melodic singing. Echoes of Bikini Kill, Bratmobile and contemporary acts such as Cheap Perfume run through this blend of riot grrrl and pop-punk.
That almost festive tone contrasts sharply with lyrics that are, frankly, deeply disturbing. The song strings together alarming comments and behaviours from a character attempting to disguise his interest in underage girls as a “preference”, “fun” or “something harmless”. Vagina Dry leave no room for those excuses, responding instead with disbelief, sarcasm and outright rejection.
The band finds a way to turn disgust into music. The repeated lines, the screams and that drawn-out “EWWWWWWWWW” transform a personal reaction into a collective one. Watch this space, because Vagina Dry are just getting started.
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