BY: Brett Callwood

Whether it’s pop, rock, or something in between, girl bands are killing it these days. Check out six of our favorites from around the world.

Girl Group

With roots in Liverpool and Norway, Girl Group has a very on-the-nose name, but that’s okay. This dream-pop outfit keeps the subtlety for the esoteric and ethereal music. Their second EP, Little Sticky Pictures, was released this year as their upward trajectory continues.

Die Spitz

Austin, TX grunge-punk-metal band Die Spitz have been wowing crowds this year, thanks to an energetic set and a fuzzy yet intense sound reminiscent of the Melvins, Dinosaur Jr., and a dab of Sonic Youth. Uncompromisingly heavy, with welcome deft touches.

Girl Tones

High-energy rock duo Girl Tones will release their debut album, Precious, in November, and the singles released so far have given us the tingles. The “Pretty Face” single has riot grrl vibes, especially when the gnarly chorus kicks in. All these years after The White Stripes and The Kills, it’s still incredible how much noise two people can make.

Kim Theory

The members of Los Angeles outfit Kim Theory are still in their teens, and they’ve already got the rock world buzzing. No gimmicks, Kim Theory play quirky indie punk with a snotty ‘tude and bags of tunes. There’s no telling how high they can fly.

Dogma

Orchestral metal performed by five talented women who dress like black metal nuns. Honestly, what the hell more do you want? The “My Matricidal” video and song offers a glorious glimpse of what they’re all about.

HANABIE.

Don’t be fooled by the cutesy anime and floral imagery – Japanese Harajuku-core sensation HANABIE. will kick your ass as soon as look at you. New single “Life Is Short, O Brave Girl”  serves as the opening theme for the anime series Young Ladies Don’t Play Fighting Games, and that makes sense. The video is all fire-breathing and wrestling, which works beautifully with the bill riffs and coo-growl vocal dynamic.