The Anti Groupies raise hell with debut album “PRETTY VICIOUS”
A powerful impression is made while listening to a band that is constantly firing on all cylinders, running seamlessly like a well-oiled machine. In this instance, the machine is decked out in leopard print, lace, and leather, and goes by the name of the Anti Groupies.
I was introduced to these bad bitches when a friend texted me from an LA show - “Put the Anti Groupies on your radar. They wail so fucking hard it’s upsetting.” And after witnessing their showstopping live set and diving into their brand new album Pretty Vicious, I can confirm that the Anti Groupies do absolutely wail. With a massive, classic metal guitar sound, groovy bass, powerhouse vocals and relentlessly heavy drums, their debut album is living, raging proof that the Anti Groupies are a force to be reckoned with.
“Cigarette Slut” is a strong opener for the album, sonically and lyrically - carving out a clear theme of “take no shit” that is explored throughout the ten tracks. Dynamic tempo changes throughout the song make it feel like it lives and breathes, under the control of the mighty Kyla Foster on drums.
The energy and rigorous groove brought to each song on the drums is elevated by the delicious bass tone of Sydney Moore. Her basslines become the highlight of a few tracks, “I’m So Bitter” and “Read the Room.” Many other bands that feature two guitars on top of the rhythm section may minimize the bass in favor of loud guitars. But when it comes to the Anti Groupies, the all-important instrument is often given its moment, and the songs are all the better because of it.
A personal favorite moment of the album comes with the heavy, high-octane “Ghost of You.” A monster riff by lead guitarist Isabella Broersma pays homage to rock giants of the past while the belting vocals bring us into the realm of modern melodic metal. She shines again in the badass wah solo on “It’s Not Me It’s You,” complemented by Kyla’s perfectly pocketed groove on the ride cymbal.
Frontwoman Cassidy Fleeman exhibits the sharp edge to her crystal clear voice in “Regret Me,” a song that blends pop melodies with the Anti Groupies’ signature umph. Cassidy’s vocals soar to a new level in the final chorus with a high harmony - complemented during live shows by vocals from Kyla on the drums. As if she couldn’t be any more impressive.
The album’s penultimate track “Nice is Not an Invite” is commanded by Isabella’s full-bodied guitar (including an acoustic layer that adds a subtle, satisfying texture) and her knack for perfect timing and variation. The song’s instrumentals match its lyrical ferocity, which puts into words the all-too-familiar tight rope walk women complete while trying to simply exist in a world full of men.
The Anti Groupies make their voices heard loud and clear with Pretty Vicious. Every hard-hitting riff and lyric puts a refreshing new take on the female experience, especially in male-dominated rock spaces. All-female bands in these spaces can often be put into the “girl band” corner where they are not given the credit they are due for their power and ingenuity, but with Pretty Vicious, the Anti Groupies command and demand respect. Give them a listen and they’re sure to become your favorite band, full stop - that just so happens to be all-girl.
Stream Pretty Vicious and find the band on Instagram @theantigroupies !
