About This Footage
Sleater-Kinney's 2015 reunion tour was a watershed moment in indie rock, marking the return of one of the most influential and innovative bands of the past two decades. This footage, captured at Irving Plaza on December 14th, 2015, is notable not only for its high-energy performance but also for the band's willingness to collaborate with other artists.
At this point in their career, Sleater-Kinney had already established themselves as pioneers of the riot grrrl movement. Formed in Olympia, Washington in 1994, the band's early work was marked by a raw energy and feminist politics that resonated deeply with a generation of young women. With albums like "Dig Me Out" (1997) and "The Hot Rock" (1999), Sleater-Kinney carved out their own unique sound, blending punk's intensity with indie rock's eclecticism.
This particular performance is significant because it features the band covering The B-52s' classic hit "Rock Lobster", a track that has become an anthem for many in the indie rock community. But what makes this clip truly remarkable is the presence of Fred Armisen, who joins Corin Tucker and Carrie Brownstein on stage for the encore performance. As a member of Portland's iconic punk band Trenchmouth and later as a key figure in the city's vibrant music scene, Armisen's involvement with Sleater-Kinney reflects the band's ongoing commitment to collaboration and community.
The 2015 reunion tour was also notable for its setlists, which included a mix of old favorites like "Dig Me Out" and new material. This performance features a range of songs from their latest album at the time, "No Cities to Love", including the anthemic title track and the more introspective "Surface Envy". The band's ability to craft catchy hooks and sing-alongs while maintaining their signature intensity is on full display here.
What makes this footage rare or significant is not just its high quality but also its context. Captured during a pivotal moment in Sleater-Kinney's career, this performance reflects the band's ongoing evolution and willingness to experiment with new sounds and collaborations. For fans of indie rock, this clip offers a glimpse into the creative process of one of the most innovative bands of the past two decades.
Watching this footage will give viewers a sense of the high-energy live performances that Sleater-Kinney is known for. The band's chemistry on stage is palpable, with Tucker and Brownstein trading vocals and guitar riffs with ease. Armisen's guest appearance adds an extra layer of excitement to the performance, as he trades vocals with Corin Tucker on "Rock Lobster". For those who have followed Sleater-Kinney's career over the years, this clip will be a nostalgic reminder of their enduring influence in the indie rock community.
Ultimately, this footage is more than just a snapshot of a live performance – it's a testament to Sleater-Kinney's ongoing commitment to creativity and collaboration. As they continue to push the boundaries of indie rock, this clip serves as a reminder of the band's enduring legacy and their continued relevance in the music world today.
Curated from public records and music databases.
