For @NPR, I wrote about fan expectations, evolution, and the new Sleater-Kinney album. Which is still doing its best to grow on me. https://www.npr.org/2019/08/14/750871657/sleater-kinney-the-center-wont-hold-review-weiss-tucker-brownstein-clark
Sleater-Kinney is one of the most important bands of my lifetime, and I've wondered if this album is going to be it for them (for real this time.) and even if it isn't, it's still the end of an era.
BUT! would very much encourage S-K fans who feel a little turned off by the new sound to give this album a good handful of listens before setting it aside. I found a lot of things that were really working for me on my 3rd, 4th spins.
Replying to @NifMuhammad @NPR
If you want to really hear Weiss cutting loose, please enjoy her band with her ex-husband, Sam Coomes, the very underappreciated Quasi https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLN_0DevVKw
I've heard them.
Replying to @NifMuhammad @NPR
ha! ouch
Replying to @NifMuhammad @NPR
Loved reading this. Seeing the band on Halloween, can’t wait!
Replying to @NifMuhammad @NPR
Thanks. Appreciate the honest take on a band who had meant so much, to so many. I, too, struggle with the new sound from an old favorite. But, there is always something to love and respect with this group!
Replying to @NifMuhammad @NPR
I've really struggled with this too, and it's nice to see somebody that shares the viewpoint. I listened to their recent Song Exploder and it found myself saying "noooo don't do that!" to a lot of the things mentioned (many of which were Annie Clark's calls).
Replying to @NifMuhammad @NPR
I love their earlier albums, but I’m not feeling this new stuff at all. Weird thing being that I really dig St. Vincent.
Replying to @NifMuhammad @NPR
Replying to @NifMuhammad @NPR
I’ve been waiting for a piece like this. Really well done.
Replying to @NifMuhammad @NPR
This is the best thing I've read yet on the new album, the new situation of the band, and expectations. Corin and Carrie's interplay were some of my favorite parts, as you note.