"The nice girls don't play rock, so we don't need more nice girls."
I'd like to take a moment and break from the Japanese bands to mention Hang On The Box from China. Mostly because they're just plain awesome. Also because they are an all women band playing punk/rock and roll in China, which I think deserves some sort of medal. Formed in 1998, HOTB came together almost without even being a band at all and performed to a ruthless crowd at the legendary "Scream" punk club in Beijing. The violent reaction from the crowd only solidified their resolve to became the best band possible. They are now signed to Sister Benten, a Japanese label, and have since gone on to tour the world. There's an excellent interview up here on WomanRock.com. Best bit?
The bands like CLOUDDEAD, Liars, Modey Lemon ... they're so excellent, but why do people still like to listen to Linkin Park, The Vines... ? There are too many things that are ready to improve. Some bands are too shit but they would get out their CD anywhere. We're a lot better than them, but we can't get out our new CD. That makes me feel sick.HOTB's sound ranges from punk to rock to softer, almost delicate songs to a sort of DIY/pop experiment. They are very catchy, yet at times very serious. Also, while they are an all girl group, they seem to have a dude on guitar for live shows (as seen in that photo up there.) They are definitely a band to watch out for.
