The Premiere of Doll Fest

Concert ReviewCommentary
Written By John Greenwood

The Cornerstone in Berkeley, California, was host to the Inaugural Doll Fest on March 1st–2nd, 2025—an event created by Maria Chaos and organized by an all-femme DIY volunteer staff to celebrate femme musicians and artists.

The venue was a great choice, easy to reach by foot if you lived locally, accessible by bus, and with decent parking if you came from farther afield like myself. A solid group of vendors were set up, offering an interesting mix of art, jewelry, and support resources to browse between sets.

The Cornerstone is quite spacious, with a separate function room for live music and a large dining bar area where you could chill, eat, or chat between bands. The stage area has an elevated balcony that provides a great view without feeling too far removed. The staff were pleasant and helpful, making for an all-around excellent experience.

Katie Cash was one of the early highlights, treating us to her own blend of country-rock blues. Her tribute to Sister Rosetta Tharpe was a perfect way to honor a pioneer who helped make an event like this possible. Respect to Katie for that choice—it was spot on. If you haven’t already, I’d recommend checking out her album Gift Horse (I did after the event).

Tess & The Details put on an exciting set, with singer Tess Stevens even getting guitarist Dustin Galecki in a headlock at one point. Their unexpected cover of Maniac (yes, from Flashdance) was a fun surprise.

The Vaxxines - Photo ©John Greenwod

The Vaxxines have come a long way since I last saw them when Chelsea Rose was still new to the band. What a difference 9–10 months makes. They’ve really grown into a cohesive unit, and they stood out from many of the other Saturday night bands for me. Great old-school punk energy, attitude, and solid songs—I’m looking forward to seeing how they continue to evolve.

They were quickly followed by The Dollheads, who transfixed the room. At first glance, you might expect them to be a 2025 version of The Partridge Family (showing my age here), but that illusion is shattered the second they start playing. While they clearly take inspiration from Joan Jett, they’re far more than just a Runaways tribute act. Their sound holds up entirely on its own.

Trap Girl enters the stage with an unapologetic scream of rage and furious thundering guitar, declaring herself to be the "Baddest Bitch" with pure angst from the depths of all that is TG persecution Hell. All the subtlety of a shotgun to the face. Loved them. 

Alternative Tentacles band The Darts bring to mind images of Betty Page meets Ray Manzarek meets The B52 meets The Munsters. A wonderful cacophony of sound and imagery while singer Nicole Laurenne frolics in many adult-themed wrestling moves with a sixties psychedelic organ. Great sound, great visuals and above all FUN!

Closing out night one was Tsunami Bomb, bringing high-energy stage antics and strong songs. Bassist Dominic Davi showed impressive skill—not just on the bass but in expertly maneuvering around my camera lens while I perched near the stage. He handled it like a true swashbuckling pirate.

The brass section and smooth, easy Motown sounds of The Inciters were a delight to start off the second day on Sunday morning.

At exactly 4:25 PM, Half Past Two hit the stage (which amused me when I checked the schedule). They were a pleasant surprise, delivering some fun ska tunes with plenty of personality from singer Tara Hahn.

They were followed by fellow OC ska band Bite Me Bambi, who just keep getting better. Their infectious, upbeat songs bring a much-needed dose of joy, especially in today’s political climate. They’ve got a polished live sound, and frontwoman Tahlena Chikami’s stage presence is undeniable. One of the most touching moments of the weekend happened during BMB’s set when a young girl made her way to the front of the stage. Tahlena noticed and gave her a moment in the spotlight. Who knows what kind of creativity that might inspire in the next 10–15 years? Afterward, I saw the girl and her friend (or sister) at the merch table, where Tahlena gifted them BMB shirts. No doubt, they’re fans for life now. That moment really summed up what the weekend was all about—inspiring the next generation.

Ansible - Photo ©John Greenwod

The primal scream of local band Ansible from West Oakland, flying the Bay Area flag with pride with a hard and fierce sound, 100% thrashing energy, soon had the moshers moshing. As the evening part of the second day of the festival makes way for the Pure Noise bands.

Closing out the festival was Slaughterhouse, who powered through a hard-hitting set, draining the last bit of energy from the crowd.

Doll Fest absolutely succeeded in what it set out to do. Everywhere I looked, people were smiling, having a great time, and celebrating something important. Long may this event continue.

Please support In Spite Magazine and Dollfest by sharing my article with a friend.

John Greenwood
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