Joanna Gruesome

Joanna Gruesome

Joanna Gruesome are a Cardiff-based alternative rock, indie rock and noise pop group formed in 2010. The band are a Welsh five-piece, and their membership includes Lan McArdle, Two White Cranes and Owen Williams. They remain active.

Formation and style

The group form in Cardiff at the suggestion of an anger management class. Their name does not refer to any band member called Joanna; it is likely a reference to Joanna Newsom. Their sound combines c86 indie pop with riot grrrl and hardcore punk.

Releases and recording

Their debut album is written in the occultist Brighton hotel The Hell House and produced by MJ of Hookworms. It is released by Slumberland Records in the United States and Fortuna Pop! in the United Kingdom.

Live work and reception

Joanna Gruesome play in the United Kingdom and Europe with acts including Los Campesinos!, King Tuff, Herman Dune and Hookworms, and they also play in the United States at New York’s CMJ festival. They are known for energetic live performances and forthright feminist and anti-homophobic views. Their debut album receives praise from Pitchfork, This is fake DIY and Rough Trade.