Bikini Kill Graces Mission Ballroom For A Final Tour
Photo — Juli Yanai (@jbelle.photo)
On Tuesday night, Bikini Kill was “that girl” at Mission Ballroom, putting on a show stopping performance for what may be their farewell tour. The ballroom was packed with enthusiasts gathered to see the iconic feminist punk rock band, who came back together in 2019 after they initially formed the band and broke up in the nineties.
The show began with a hard-hitting performance by Canadian husband and wife rock duo, Sweeping Promises, who also happen to be huge fans of Bikini Kill. Between their electric performances of songs, vocalist Lira Mondal made sweet nods to Bikini Kill’s influence on their musical career, stating that listening to their music is part of what inspired her to start her own band, and with the band’s powerful presence that influence is clear. Preparing the audience with roaring vocals and guitar riffs, Sweeping Promises ended their set by emphatically stating that Bikini Kill was up next, and with that they vanished.
While waiting for the much anticipated Bikini Kill, the eclectic crowd buzzed. Spiky mohawks and neon green hair bopped around, while platform shoes tapped on the ballroom floor in anticipation.
As the dim space lit up and lead vocalist Kathleen Hanna emerged, people erupted in cheers. Wearing a sparkly green ensemble with a perky updo, Hanna took on the stage in style along with the rest of the band. And of course, they opened with the classic, “Rebel Girl”, kicking and maneuvering around the stage unapologetically.
And as they lit up the stage with riot girl energy, the crowd pushed into the barricade and people began crowd surfing into the pit before being escorted out by security. Something about the way Bikini Kill filled the stage with presence fed back into the crowd, and it was a moment for generations of rockers going back to delight over.
At points, Hanna also spoke to the crowd about real issues, like navigating love, relationships and life as a young woman and looking at things from the perspective she has now. It was an empowering show filled with raw commentary and wise insight. Standing and listening, especially as a woman, was a special kind of experience tainted with sisterhood. Overall, the show was an explosive celebration of Bikini Kill’s iconic career over the years and a reminder to everyone that a little youthful, rebellious energy is always a good thing to have.
As we bid farewell to seeing Bikini Kill take the stage again, we will carry the fiery energy they’ve instilled in us, both in music and in life.
