No one who attended Saturday’s Wild Flag show knew quite what to expect. The newborn supergroup had no recordings to its credit and only a handful of shows under its belt. All that was really known about the band was its prestigious lineup, which included two members of defunct riot grrl legends Sleater-Kinney. As the all-girl group teased on its Twitter account, “For all you know, we’re a polka band.” Continue reading…
Since Sleater-Kinney‘s breakup in 2006, fans of the trio have held out hope for a reunion. The Olympia, Washington band dissolved at the height of its creative powers, having just released its seventh album, the classic rock-influenced The Woods.
The group had originally emerged out of Olympia’s mid-90s riot grrl scene, but quickly differentiated itself through its use of sharp guitar hooks, distinctive harmonies, and politically savvy lyrics. By the time of their breakup, Sleater-Kinney were more than just critical darlings — they were fiercely cherished by fans in a way that few bands come close to achieving. Now, at long last, those fans will be treated to a Sleater-Kinney reunion — well, sort of. Continue reading…
In the all-too-fleeting world of indie rock acclaim, Quasi are as close to an institution as it gets. The Portland-based trio have been around since 1993, and their music has remained refreshingly wrinkle-free. Led by Sam Coomes on vocals, keys, and guitar, and ex-wife Janet Weiss—of defunct rock goddesses Sleater-Kinney—on backup vocals and drums, Quasi have been quietly releasing loud music for almost two decades. Continue reading