Music Videos Season 7 Episode 9 Sleater-Kinney: A New Wave

Music Videos season 7 episode 9, titled "Sleater-Kinney: A New Wave," features a selection of music videos from the iconic feminist punk band Sleater-Kinney. The episode is a celebration of the band's impactful music, which has not only permeated the punk scene but also become a powerful voice in contemporary feminist politics.

The episode begins with a brief introduction to the band by the host, who explains that Sleater-Kinney emerged in the late 1990s as a dynamic duo comprised of Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker. The band's sound was distinct in that it blended punk with intricate guitar interplay, showcasing a complexity that was often lacking in the punk scene at the time.

The first music video featured in the episode is for the song "You're No Rock n' Roll Fun," from the band's 2002 album One Beat. The video, directed by Samantha McEwen, is a playful and energetic representation of the band's live performances, featuring shots of the band performing on stage juxtaposed with playful animations.

Next up is the video for "Modern Girl," a song off the band's seminal 2005 album, The Woods. The video, directed by Lance Bangs, features Brownstein and Tucker performing on a rooftop at night, surrounded by a sea of bright city lights. As the duo sings about the alienation of modern life, the camera pans over to reveal Tucker's daughter playing quietly in the background, adding a poignant layer to the song's exploration of finding oneself in an increasingly disconnected world.

The episode also features the music video for "No Cities to Love," the title track from the band's 2015 album. Directed by Bob's Burgers creator Loren Bouchard, the video is a whimsical, animated jaunt through a colorful cityscape, featuring the band members as cartoon avatars navigating the urban landscape. The clip captures the joy and playfulness that have characterized Sleater-Kinney's music over the years.

Throughout the episode, the host provides context for the band's music, often delving into their political messaging. From songs about abortion rights to critiques of the music industry's sexism, Sleater-Kinney has never shied away from using their platform to advocate for marginalized voices. The episode delves into how the band's evolving sound has paralleled their shifting political perspective, ultimately culminating in their most recent album, The Center Won't Hold, which features a more experimental sound that subverts traditional punk instrumentation.

The episode ends on a powerful note with the music video for "Entertain," off the band's 2006 album The Woods. The video, directed by Autumn de Wilde, features Brownstein and Tucker in a surreal, black-and-white world filled with bizarre characters and strange props. As the duo sings about their desire to challenge the status quo, the video showcases their non-conformity and their commitment to being a strong and distinct voice in the punk scene.

Overall, Music Videos season 7 episode 9 is a fitting tribute to the artistry and activism of Sleater-Kinney. Through their music, the band has challenged societal norms and pushed boundaries, making an indelible impact not only on the punk scene but also on broader popular culture. The episode offers a glimpse into the band's storied career and serves as a celebration of their continuing relevance and influence.