Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker of Sleater-Kinney discuss their 11th album 'Little Rope' influenced by grief, creativity, and making music together for decades. Also, a review of the Netflix series 3 Body Problem.
Sleater-Kinney remains influential in the punk scene with evolving themes and sound.
Personal tragedy influenced the album's direction, showcasing vulnerability and introspection in their music.
Deep dives
Overview of Slater Kenny Band's Evolution
Slater Kenny, formed by Carrie Brownstein and Corinne Tucker during the riot girl feminist punk scene in Olympia, Washington, has evolved over the years from being labeled the best American punk rock band by Rolling Stone to releasing their 11th album titled 'Little Rope'. Their music has maintained signature elements like explosive guitars, distinctive vocals, and feminist themes, with a shift towards vulnerability and introspection.
Influence of Personal Tragedy on Music
During the production of their 11th album 'Little Rope', Carrie Brownstein's personal tragedy, the death of her mother in a car accident, influenced the trajectory of the songs. While there was no external pressure to continue working on the album, music provided structure and stability during a tumultuous time, helping Brownstein navigate grief and maintain a sense of purpose.
Songwriting Process and Evolution
The band's collaborative songwriting process for tracks like 'Say It Like You Mean It' involved sharing rough demos and refining vocal melodies and lyrics. Brownstein's introspective lyrics delved into themes of love and loss, reflecting the band's growth over the years. Their decision to shift vocal responsibilities and focus more on guitar playing was influenced by personal and musical evolution.
Exploration of Complex Emotions in Music
Songs like 'Dress Yourself' and 'Hunt You Down' from the album 'Little Rope' explore deep emotional layers related to existential themes, self-image, and the complexities of relationships. The band's music delves into themes of depression, personal struggles, and the societal challenges faced by individuals, adding a profound depth to their lyrical and musical compositions.
Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker co-founded the band Sleater-Kinney together 30 years ago, and became an important part of the 1990s feminist punk scene in Olympia, Washington. Rolling Stone once called Sleater-Kinney the best American punk rock band ever. Brownstein and Tucker just released their 11th album, called Little Rope. While they were working on the record, Brownstein's mother died in a car accident. They spoke with Ann Marie Baldonado about how the grief affected the album, and what it's like to make music together for decades.
Also, David Bianculli reviews the Netflix series 3 Body Problem.