Beaker return after twenty‑seven years with “50 Men,” a fierce and deeply human comeback from one of Oxford’s most influential late‑90s indie rock bands.
Formed by Sam Batlle (vocals), Teresa Ward (guitar), Clare Howard‑Saunders (drums), and the late Kim Parsons (bass), the all‑female group carved out a loyal following during the height of the Oxford scene — releasing “Backgarden” through the Shifty Disco Singles Club in 1997 and the double A‑side “Monster / Plastic” on Fierce Panda in 1998, followed by UK touring and a Radio 1 Sound City appearance.
Their new single “50 Men” is a tribute to Gisele Pelicot, whose decision to waive anonymity in a landmark sexual‑violence case shifted the cultural conversation around shame. Produced and mixed by Sam Williams (Supergrass, Plan B) at Temple Sound Studios, the track channels the raw electricity of the riot‑grrrl era — L7, Hole, The Breeders — while landing with a modern, sharpened edge. It opens in a stark, intimate hush before rising into brooding guitars, spectral harmonies, and a final, immersive swell driven by Batlle’s visceral, commanding vocal performance.
Beaker reunited in 2023 after the passing of bassist Kim Parsons, a moment that rekindled both friendship and creative fire. Joined now by bassist Hayley Wright and backing vocalist Emma Hunter, the band has already returned to sold‑out shows and a celebrated slot at Truck Festival. Their resurgence is captured in the Radio 4 documentary Band of Mothers, featuring an interview with Steve Lamacq and coverage on BBC Breakfast.
Still loud, still defiant, and still rewriting the rules, Beaker stand as one of Oxford’s most vital and enduring voices.
Beaker sound like they stepped straight out of the Oxford ’90s and into 2026 without losing a step. That old‑school grit and new‑school punch hit at the same time — loud, confident, and completely their own. Some bands come back… Beaker return like they never left.
-Rob | The INDIE Musician
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