The Devotchkas
The Devotchkas are a four-piece American street punk band based in New York City. Named after the term “Devotchka” in the film and novel A Clockwork Orange, meaning “girl” in Nadsat, a language derived from Russian, the band emerged in 1996.
Early Years/Line-ups
An all-girl group, The Devotchkas formed in 1996 with three friends. Drummers, including Jon from The Krays, came and went in the early period. Seeking stability, they recruited Gabrielle in 1999, solidifying the lineup. In 1998, they signed with Punk Core Records, releasing their debut EP, which exceeded 5,000 copies. The second EP, Annihilation, came out in 2000. After a European tour in 2001, singer Stephanie left, and she was replaced by Jennifer Leigh (“JJ”) for the 2002 album Live Fast, Die Young. Despite contemplating a name change, they retained The Devotchkas. The band took a hiatus after a successful European tour in 2002.
In January 2022, they announced a reunion at CY Fest in Los Angeles, California, celebrating the 20-year anniversary of Live Fast, Die Young.
20-Year Reunion at CY Fest 2022, 2023
A limited color flexi titled From The Vault was released in 2022 for CY Fest, featuring “My Scars” and an unreleased version of “Wicked Heart.” In 2023, they released a special edition repressing of Live Fast, Die Young with two live tracks from CBGBs recorded in 2001. The band received positive reception, leading to an invitation to CY Fest 2023 and Rebellion Festival in Blackpool, with the Rebellion appearance postponed to 2024.
The Devotchkas announced their disassociation from former singer Stephanie, confirming JJ as the permanent vocalist. Despite members residing in various parts of the country, the band continues to perform at festivals like CY Fest and Rebellion Fest, releasing new material.
Lineups
Current Lineup
- JJ – Vocals
- Mande – Guitar
- Alaine – Bass
- Gabrielle – Drums
Lineup (1999-2001)
- Stephanie – Vocals
- Mande – Guitar
- Alaine – Bass
- Gabrielle – Drums
Early Devotchkas Lineup
- Steph – Vocals
- Mande – Guitar
- Alaine – Bass
- Jon – Drums
Discography
- OiToy – 1998
- Devotchkas EP – 1998 Punk Core Records
- Annihilation – 2000 Punk Core Records
- Live Fast, Die Young – 2001 Punk Core Records
- From The Vault – 2022 Dig My Grave Records
- Live Fast, Die Young – 2023 limited edition remaster/reissue – Dig My Grave Records
