After making us scream with their previous single, Everyone Is Gay, Barcelona-based Hekate Heads are back, opening up a subject that more than deserved its own song with Dr Jekyll and Ms Blood. Because, seriously, who the fuck does some bloke think he is, explaining what it’s like to have your period? And what’s with that condescending idea that we somehow turn into a different person when it’s ‘that time of the month’?
Musically, Hekate Heads go for something raw, heavy and confrontational, with plenty of punk and noise rock in the mix, plus a darker, almost metal edge that brings Drain STH to mind. The L7 comparison is hard to avoid: simple, low, repetitive riffs that aren’t there to show off, just to give the track that dense, pounding feel. The drums hit hard and stay firm, while the bass adds even more weight. There’s also something of Babes in Toyland here, especially “Swamp Pussy”, in the dirty guitar sound, the almost hypnotic drumming and Simona‘s voice, which carries all that anger without overplaying it. Paula and Louise‘s backing vocals push things further into riot grrrl territory, especially when they all come in together and the chorus feels even more defiant.
The lyrics are about something painfully familiar: using women’s pain as an excuse not to take seriously any anger or reaction that makes people uncomfortable. Mansplaining taken to the absolute limit, with men explaining something they know fuck all about. It comes from those “it can’t be that bad” or “better not say anything, you’re on your period” comments, the kind that make you want to tell whoever said them to fuck right off.
Hekate Heads answer with irony: do I look like a hormonal monster to you? Fine. Here’s Ms Blood, electric guitar in hand. And no, she doesn’t need anyone showing her how to use it.
Dr Jekyll and Ms Blood is the second single from Manifestin’, the EP Hekate Heads will release at the end of September before heading out on a UK tour in October. With every release, this trio sound more sure of themselves, turning everyday bullshit into something political without losing the humour, the anger or the urge to make some noise.
LIVE DATES
SEP 7 — with Grade 2 – Barcelona, SP
SEP 12 — Festa Mayor de Poblenou – Barcelona, SP
OCT 21 — London, UK
OCT 22 — Preston, UK
OCT 23 — Brighton, UK
OCT 24 — Manchester, UK
OCT 25 — Newcastle, UK
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