SOSUS

I've just acquired Sleater-Kinney's album Call the Doctor, released in 1996 on the label Chainsaw. My first exposure to the ban was through their album One Beat (2002, Kill Rock Stars) and The Woods (2005, Sub Pop). It's always nice to hear the progression of a particular band, which I think is really evident in Sleater-Kinney's albums. This album is somewhat rough, featuring Sleater-Kinney's distinctive two guitar and drum configuration.

So far my favorite song on the album is Good Things, a somewhat stereotypical song about a failed relationship. While the songs lyrics may not particularly interesting (although honest, with lines like: it's a dumb song / but I write it anyway), the melody line and the timbre of Corin Tucker or Carrie Brownstein (I am not sure who is singing) is very inviting. Usually people's first reaction to Sleater-Kinney's somewhat brash vocalists, similar to other Riot Grrl bands such as Bikini Kill or Le Tigre, is one of dismissal. The band is usually an acquired taste, but definitely worth it.

Another song worth noting is the title track, Call the Doctor. Besides Carrie Brownsteins vocals, which are as always somewhat staccato and fun to listen to, the song really highlights Janet Weiss' wonderful drumming. I especially like her use of the bells on her cymbals, punctuating Carrie's staccato melody line.

Corin and Carrie's double guitar playing is always surprisingly complex. Instead of limiting the band's sound it helps to define and expand it. This is best seen in contrasting Call the Doctor with The Woods, Sleater-Kinney's newest (and potentially final) album. While there is obvious similarity, in regards to the distorted guitars and shrill vocals (Corin Tucker's yelling), but there is still a great difference between the two. Call the Doctor has somewhat more of an unfinished sound, maybe reflecting more an inexperience with recording studios than a significant difference in playing. Either way, the album feels more rough around the edges, but is enjoyable for that reason, it doesn't feel removed, so polished that in some way it is separate from the listener.

Recently, Sleater-Kinney announced they would be breaking up, with no plans for another tour or album. Their official last concert was held in New York City a few weeks ago. It's a shame, because they are a great band, and really worth checking out.

http://www.sleater-kinney.com/