Last week, Jon Stewart was breaking down the complexities of the news on The Daily Show?specifically the in, outs and what-have-yous of the potential war with Iraq. He discussed a barrage of acts including the War Powers Act, an anti-terrorism act and then the Sleater-Kinney Act. He flashed a picture of the band on the screen, commenting, “I hear the hot one is bi.”
If a shout-out from demigod Jon Stewart isn’t enough to interest you in a band, then perhaps the presence of not one but three bands with hot, hot ladies will lure you to the 9:30 Club this Sunday. The punk-inspired Sleater-Kinney will be joined by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and The Quails for a night of rock.
While it has been argued that Sleater-Kinney could put out a load of crap for their next CD and their loyal indie fans would still love it, Sleater-Kinney’s eight-year track record has been impressive, and the band’s latest album is getting praise from those who wouldn’t listen to “female rock” just because it is female rock. After a two-year hiatus during which guitarist Corin Tucker had a baby, guitarist Carrie Brownstein researched sociolinguistics and drummer Janet Weiss continued recording with her other band Quasi, Sleater-Kinney has finally released One Beat. The album combines the band’s punk roots with twinges of blues and soul, yet keeps things minimalist on several of the tracks with a two guitar, drum and no-bass arrangement. One Beat is also more political than past albums, drawing on the experience of living in a post Sept. 11 world.
But perhaps the highlight of the show will be the performance by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, whose recent self-titled EP makes you want emulate the sexy cover and get a diamond studded nameplate necklace that says “Master.” Lead by Karen O, who describes herself as a female Iggy Pop, the band’s live performances are characterized by her onstage bravado and beer-soaked mini-dresses. If the album is any indication, with her breathing noises, squeals, screams and lyrics like “the bigger … the better,” the show is going to be hot.
The Quails will also be making an appearance, spreading its message, which seems to be part political and part dance. While it’s hard to get a handle on what exactly that political message is?it sounds arty and somewhat laughable?it’s worth checking the band out for the dance component of that message.
So go see these bands. Go because they have a political message and you want to hear what they think about Iraq. Go because they are hot. Go because they play great music. But most importantly, go for Jon Stewart.
9:30 Club is located at 815 V St., N.W.
