"We’re confronting the industry head-on and we’re not afraid to take up space."

W: Maxine Sutton

In the heart of Bristol’s legendary music scene, a new power dynamic is shifting. Meet MOXIE DOLLS, the all-girl alt-rock quartet—comprising Ru Taylor, Hannah Hodges, Eva Parfitt, and Evie Press—who are currently systematically dismantling every "girl band" stereotype in the book. Fusing raw punk energy with sharp synth lines and heavy riffs, they aren't just playing music; they’re advocating for a seismic shift in the industry. For fans of Hole, Amyl and the Sniffers, and HotWax, MOXIE DOLLS are the rising force you simply cannot afford to ignore in 2026.

When asked to define their sonic identity, the band points to a lineage of fierce predecessors. They take deep inspiration from the Riot Grrrl movement and its feminist roots, creating a sound that combines elements of punk, rock, and alternative genres. Their upcoming single, "Pretty Silly Boys," is a fun, tongue-in-cheek anthem that packs a serious punch. It challenges the hyper-masculine nature of the industry and the toxic environments that often follow, channelling feminist rage into unapologetic rebellion.

"We want to prove that we’re not your typical ‘doll’ within a patriarchal world, but a collective of women that hold power and femininity."

The name itself is a subversion. Bassist Hannah Hodges initially drew inspiration from a local hotel, but the band evolved the spelling to "MOXIE" to reflect their grit and personality. Adding "DOLLS" was a deliberate choice to reclaim a term often used to diminish women. As a band that strives to break down misogynistic stereotypes, they are determined to prove they are not "typical" dolls. Being an all-female group in a male-dominated genre hasn't been without its hurdles, often facing people who assume they are "with the band" rather than the ones playing the instruments. They are here to confront that head-on and take up the space they deserve.

Despite their explosive stage presence and "unapologetically loud" reputation, the internal dynamic is one of warmth and support. The band considers their greatest strength to be their family-like bond, where everyone feels comfortable contributing different ideas. As for "diva demands," you won't find any here. Their pre-show ritual is refreshingly grounded: a band mirror selfie, decorating setlists with hand-drawn stars, and a "cheeky pint" to settle the nerves. Their only real weakness, they admit, is a tendency to chat and giggle a little too much during their rehearsal sessions.

''Hook-driven songs with an explosive live energy that leaves a mark."

Having already graced iconic stages like Thekla, The Fleece, and The Louisiana, MOXIE DOLLS have earned their reputation as prominent figures in the Bristol scene. They have also worked with organisations such as Amplify Her and Trinity Community Arts to showcase other up-and-coming women. But they aren't stopping at the Southwest; their big goal for 2026 is to play anywhere and everywhere around the UK and beyond. With two singles dropping in early April and a headline show at The Louisiana on the 14th, the momentum is undeniable.

Catch Them Live: Spring/Summer 2026

• Tuesday 14th April: The Louisiana, Bristol (Single Release Show)
• Friday 24th April: Le Pub, Newport
• Thursday 30th April: Bomba, Exeter
• Saturday 6th June GROOVE Festival Bristol
• Wednesday 8th July: Fuel Rock Club, Cardiff