I know that I've been a little busy, a little distracted lately. But could someone tell me how I could have missed the news that Sleater-Kinney, one of the greatest bands in America, have called it quits? That their final show took place this past Saturday night in Portland?
I actually discovered this news within the past ten minutes and I'm probably still numb to it. Not that they haven't hinted at this likelihood. Not that they haven't talked openly about their sometimes tempestuous interpersonal relationships. But break up? After releasing The Woods, one of the great rock records?
Apparently, this has been fait accompli since late June, according to the NME. And the great Ann Powers had the report on S-K's final shows for the LA Times:
With each member hitting her peak Saturday, Sleater-Kinney's most-lauded attribute — the group's subtle and often startlingly inventive interplay — was on full display. Tucker and Brownstein layered together guitar and vocal lines, sometimes easing into dynamically adventurous improvisations, only to turn on a dime and unite for some speedy dance-punk. Weiss provided the motor for her bandmates' tandem ride, her drum lines tapping into the mighty vigor of heavy metal. During these exchanges, neither songs nor the identities of the singers mattered. What fascinated was the group's creative process, emerging during each song like the topography on a raised map. In these moments, the trio exchanged delighted grins and it became clear that for Sleater-Kinney, nothing — not feminist ideology, not independent business practices, not even the words of the band's own songs — mattered as much as the unpredictable grace of collaboration.
Sleater-Kinney is not a jam band, however — its songs are too visceral and its stance too radical for the happy touring scene that's given other improvising rock groups a home. This show presented Sleater-Kinney at the absolute height of its powers; one can only hope that the breakup will last, so that each of these talented women gets a chance to follow a new stream. Leaving fans — and each other — with a show none will forget, Sleater-Kinney departed in glory. And frankly, that's something great bands don't do nearly enough.
One can only hope for a reunion tour sometime in 2017, but in the meantime, here's a raised glass for Carrie, Corin and Janet, three musicians who transcended the riot grrrl label to become one of the great American rock bands.
From the band's website:
We feel lucky to have had the support of many wonderful people over the years. We want to thank everyone who has worked with us, written kind words about us, performed with us, and inspired us.
But mostly we want to extend our gratitude to our amazing fans. You have been a part of our story from the beginning. We could not have made our music without your enthusiasm, passion, and loyalty. It is you who have made the entire journey worthwhile.
Sleater-Kinney Discography:
The Woods | 2005 (Sub Pop)
One Beat | 2002 (Kill Rock Stars)
All Hands on the Bad One | 2000 (Kill Rock Stars)
The Hot Rock | 1999 (Kill Rock Stars)
Dig Me Out | 1997 (Kill Rock Stars)
Call the Doctor | 1996 (Chainsaw)
Self Titled | 1995 (Chainsaw)
They're all good. My personal favorites are Dig Me Out, The Hot Rock and The Woods.
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