"FRIGHTWIG is American slang
used to denote a woman whose
appearance is disheveled; she is
unruly, perhaps under the influence
and she doesn't give a damn"
During Frightwig's influential history
they had many line up changes.
Deanna (bass) and Mia (vocals&guitar)
formed the band in San Francisco in 1983
because they were bored with the cheezy
male dominated rock scene and the
growing number of "hair" bands. The duo
were then joined by Cecilia (drums) and were
now ready to kick serious ass! 1984 saw the
release of their debut album 'Cat Farm Faboo'
and the inclusion of an extra guitarist called
Susan. Extensive touring provided an opportunity
for Frightwig to gain themselves an irresistable
and infamous live reputation. Their shows included
the worshiping of women and the band ordering
male members of the audience to dance naked (!).
Described by one reviewer as "Beautiful, noisy chaos"
and "loud women with foul mouths, big songs and fat
attitudes". The wild women set an example that was to
influence many other bands such as L7, Babes in Toyland,
Faith No More and Hole. 1986 saw Rebecca replace
Mia (who was pregnant) and the band recorded their
second album 'Faster Frightwig Kill Kill!'. However
Rebecca decided to quit due to pregnancy, followed by
Cecilia who went for therapy.
BUT the band were not finished yet and in 1989
Rebecca and Deanna reformed the band with a new
drummer (Lyn Perko from Sister Double Happiness).
They were together long enough to record the 'Phone
Sexy mini album! Sadly Rebecca and Deanna joined
Cecilia in the Betty Ford Center, whilst Lynn rejoined
her old band. The most psychotic, beautiful and
cathartic band of the 80's was dead. However their
attitude, wit and determinism to break boundaries
became the blueprint for the early 90's alternative scene.
ourtney Love went as far as to say that without Frightwig
"there would be no Hole, no Babes in Toyland no riot grrl
and no PJ Harvey". Whilst L7, Bikini Kill and The Butthole
Surfers have also made clear their admiration for one
of the most intelligent, ferocious and provocative bands ever.
