Inspired by Seattle punk band the Gits and their fiery vocalist Mia Zapata, 7 Year Bitch is one of the most aggressive punk bands on the American indie scene. Vocalist Selene Vigil, guitarist Stefanie Sargent and drummer Valerie Agnew were playing in the Seattle group Barbie's Dream Car when their bassist left for Europe. They recruited Elizabeth Davis and played their first shows with the Gits. After a self-titled debut single in 1990, 7 Year Bitch signed with C/Z Records. The first album Sick 'Em appeared in 1992, but was overshadowed by Sargent's death just before it was released; Roisin Dunne became the guitarist's replacement the following year. In July 1993, Mia Zapata was brutally killed in Seattle, and 7 Year Bitch recorded Viva Zapata! as a tribute. The group then signed with Atlantic and in 1996 released Gato Negro, their major-label debut. ~ John Bush