Babes In Toyland

ByLets Go Punk
Babes in Toyland was a Minneapolis-based punk rock band

Babes in Toyland was an American alternative rock and punk band from Minneapolis, Minnesota, formed in 1987. The group was known for its raw, aggressive sound and politically charged lyrics, often grouped with the riot grrrl movement. The band was founded by lead vocalist and guitarist Kat Bjelland, drummer Lori Barbero, and bassist Michelle Leon, who was replaced by Maureen Herman in 1992. Babes in Toyland released three studio albums before disbanding in 2001, with reunions in 2014 and 2015, before breaking up again in 2017.

History

1987–1991: Formation and Early Years

Babes in Toyland was founded by Kat Bjelland, who relocated from Oregon to Minneapolis, where she met drummer Lori Barbero. Though Barbero had no prior musical experience, the pair formed a band with bassist Kris Holetz and vocalist Cindy Russell. After some early changes, Michelle Leon took over on bass. The band began playing gigs at local venues in late 1987 and quickly gained a reputation for their aggressive and energetic performances.

In 1989, the group recorded their debut album, Spanking Machine, with renowned producer Jack Endino in Seattle. Released in 1990, the album caught the attention of Sonic Youth frontman Thurston Moore, who invited Babes in Toyland to open for Sonic Youth on their European tour. The band also performed at the 1991 Reading Festival and recorded two Peel Sessions for BBC radio, further establishing their place in the underground rock scene.

1992–1995: Mainstream Success

After bassist Michelle Leon left the band in 1992, Maureen Herman joined the lineup. The band’s second album, Fontanelle (1992), was produced by Lee Ranaldo of Sonic Youth and marked their breakthrough into the mainstream. The album sold over 250,000 copies and included the single “Bruise Violet,” which was rumored to be an attack on Courtney Love, though Bjelland denied this. Fontanelle helped the band gain more recognition, and they were featured in several prominent music publications and television appearances.

In 1993, Babes in Toyland performed at Lollapalooza and released the Painkillers EP. Their third studio album, Nemesisters (1995), was met with mixed reviews, with some critics feeling it lacked the intensity and cohesion of their earlier work. Despite this, the band toured extensively, including performances at Roskilde Festival in Denmark and other European venues.

1996–2001: Lineup Changes and Breakup

Bassist Maureen Herman left the band in 1996 due to health issues, and Dana Cochrane briefly replaced her for live performances. The band continued to struggle with lineup changes, including a brief reunion with Michelle Leon in 1997, before disbanding in 2001. Bjelland went on to form the band Katastrophy Wife during this period.

2014–2020: Reunion, Tour, and Second Breakup

In 2014, Babes in Toyland reunited with the original members Kat Bjelland, Lori Barbero, and Maureen Herman. The band embarked on a tour in 2015, performing across Europe and North America. However, in August 2015, Herman was fired from the band and replaced by Clara Salyer. Babes in Toyland continued to perform live, but in 2017 they officially broke up again.

Musical Style and Legacy

Babes in Toyland’s music is characterized by its abrasive, punk-influenced sound, with Kat Bjelland’s fierce guitar work and screaming vocals at the forefront. Their lyrics often explored themes of power, abuse, and femininity, and they were frequently associated with the riot grrrl movement, despite Bjelland distancing herself from the label.

The band has left a lasting legacy on alternative and punk rock, with acts like Bikini Kill and other riot grrrl bands citing Babes in Toyland as a major influence. They were also one of the few female-fronted bands to achieve mainstream success during the early 1990s.

Discography

Studio Albums

  • Spanking Machine (1990)
  • Fontanelle (1992)
  • Nemesisters (1995)

EPs

  • To Mother (1991)
  • Painkillers (1993)

Band Members

Final Lineup

  • Kat Bjelland – Lead vocals, guitar (1987–2001, 2014–2017)
  • Lori Barbero – Drums, backing vocals (1987–2001, 2014–2017)
  • Clara Salyer – Bass (2015–2017)

Former Members

  • Maureen Herman – Bass (1992–1996, 2014–2015)
  • Jessie Farmer – Bass (1997–2001)
  • Michelle Leon – Bass (1987–1992)
  • Cindy Russell – Lead vocals (1987)
  • Kris Holetz – Bass (1987)

Legacy

Babes in Toyland are credited with influencing the riot grrrl movement and paving the way for female-fronted bands in punk and alternative rock. They have been honored with a star on the mural of the iconic Minneapolis venue First Avenue, recognizing their contribution to the city’s music scene and their lasting impact on rock music.

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