Review
Sleater-Kinney's album "No Cities to Love," their first release after a decade-long hiatus, emerges as a powerful testimony to the vibrancy and staying power of the band. This album not only marks the celebrated reunion of Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker but does so with a compelling urgency that underscores their profound connection as musicians and lifelong friends. The energy of the album is contagious, filled with the sort of drive that is both rare and immensely satisfying, making it clear that the trio’s hiatus has in no way diminished their dynamism or creativity.
Musically, "No Cities to Love" is charged with lean, angular melodies and a rigorous rhythm section that showcases Janet Weiss’s robust drumming alongside the harmonious interplay of Brownstein and Tucker’s guitars and vocals. This setup fosters a series of tracks that are emotive and invigorating, perfect for dancing yet rich with substance. The album adeptly touches on personal and societal themes, making poignant observations through lyrics that blend personal experiences with broader socio-political commentary. It reestablishes Sleater-Kinney not just as prominent figures in the post-punk landscape but also as innovators and role models who continue to push the boundaries of the genre with incredible finesse and power. - Maci