The Rocket Dolls

The Rocket Dolls

The Rocket Dolls are a Brighton-based rock band that begins in 2008. They are a three-piece post-grunge and riff-metal group made up of Nikki Smash on lead vocals and lead guitar, Steve Golder on bass and backing vocals, and Ben Knopfler on drums. The band members are described as professionally trained musicians from strong musical families, with training from colleges across the country.

Style and influences

Their music draws on classic rock, heavy rock, grunge and metal, with alternative rock and alternative metal also fitting their sound. They take influence from The Exies, Deftones, Mötley Crüe, Silverchair, Bush and Nirvana, and combine those references into a heavier, modern rock style.

Early activity and live shows

After forming in Brighton, the band plays its first show at The Railway Inn in Winchester, where it receives a strong audience response. It then builds a live reputation through performances at venues including The Water Rats and The Hope and Anchor in London, as well as dates across the south of England and in the Channel Islands.

Recordings and support slots

The Rocket Dolls record their debut release, the Frame EP, which is mastered by Ace of Skunk Anansie. The EP is presented as capturing the band’s heavy live sound in studio form. They also support acts including Million Dollar Reload and The Luchagors.

Reception

The band receives radio play, press coverage and favourable reviews, and develops a loyal following through its live performances and image.