Last Night: Sleater-Kinney at ACL Live
Photo: Richard Gonzalez
Last night, the iconic rock band Sleater-Kinney made a powerful return to Austin, gracing the stage at ACL Live with a performance that delved into the depths of emotion and resilience. The spotlight of the evening was on their latest release, "Little Rope," an album that carries the weight of personal tragedy, specifically the loss of singer Carrie Brownstein's mother and stepfather in a tragic auto accident during their vacation in Italy in 2022.
The evening kicked off with a poignant and dark tone as the opening notes of "Hell" from "Little Rope" reverberated through the venue. The stage was draped in a haunting red backdrop, setting the atmosphere for an emotionally charged performance. The energy started high and only built momentum as the night went on.
Sleater-Kinney seamlessly transitioned into the highly energized track "Needlessly Wild," showcasing their ability to navigate the emotional spectrum with musical prowess. The resilience in their performance mirrored the strength required to channel grief into art, a testament to the healing power of music.
A notable inclusion in the set was the 2019 hit "The Center Won't Hold," adding a dynamic element to the performance. Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker took turns singing throughout the night, with Brownstein notably leaning back and focusing on the guitar, a departure from her usual stage presence. This shift in dynamics added a layer of difference from previous outings.
One of the night's highlights was the playful interaction between the duo and the audience. Brownstein and Tucker waved to friends in the crowd, creating an intimate connection with their fans. Acknowledging their social media presence, the band shared that they actively listen to fans on platforms like Instagram, even incorporating song requests left in the comments. This personalized touch brought a sense of inclusivity, and gave the audience a chance to see the band play songs they hadn’t played in years.
As the night unfolded, Sleater-Kinney treated the audience to fan favorites like "Jumpers" and "Modern Girl," showcasing their extensive catalog of hits. The set reached its climax with an encore that featured the soul-stirring "Slow Song," the anthemic "Say It Like You Mean It," and the stellar closer, "Entertain." Each song resonated with a depth that only a band with a rich history and a commitment to authenticity could convey.
