Scarebears debut single ‘Scapegoat’ opens with stern spoken word that acts as launch pad for an audio OOF! factor ten take-off, each note from there unleashing like a tightly coiled spring so embroiled are they in the energy and conviction of the lyrical message; one that takes serious issue with the idea of the far right actually having concern for women’s safety as a genuine part of its agenda.
Scarebears describes itself as “Brand new, fresh-out-of-the-oven, aggressive post-punk three piece from Bristol … Noisy melodies for fans of Petrol Girls, Illuminati Hotties & Gang of Four”.
The FFOs are all spot on; I also found a flavour of My Ruin in the mix, plus some spirit of The Workhorse Movement and something very much reminiscent of the essence of Tool. Scarebears are indeed a new band, forming in the summer of 25, but the accumulation of experience across its members punches out of the sound with some serious weight.
It’s right in the face punk AF—and will definitely windup any far right dickheads who hear it—and so a word like “polished” doesn’t really feel the right fit to describe the fierce energetic passion found on ‘Scapegoat’, nonetheless there is immense quality throughout the composition, delivery and production well beyond that one would anticipate from a debut.
If it seems incredible that I’m once again singing the high praises of a Bristol band, then the proof is in the sound and the links to hear that are below!
‘Scapegoat’–due for release 16th January 2026–is the first single from upcoming EP Worse for Everyone; itself due for release Spring 2026 with vinyl available from Brassneck Records.
Scarebears:
- Kim Egan – Drums/ Bass & Vocals
- Abi Gallichan – Bass / Drums & Vocals
- Meg ‘The Meg’ – Guitar & Vocals
Catch Scarebears live:
- Friday 16th January (tomorrow at time of publishing!) @ the Chelsea Inn, Chelsea Rd, Bristol for the single launch
- @ The Corn Exchange in Newport supporting Loose Articles on 24th Jan
- On 7th March in Plymouth for International Women’s Day
- @ The Bristol Punx Picnic 17th/18th July
Links:
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Thanks for reading 🙂
N. P. Ryan
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