SLEATER-KINNEY — THE WILTERN — 3.28.2024

Zooming through L.A traffic to get somewhere is not for the faint of heart. It’s one of the most hated pastimes in Southern Californian tradition. But for a Sleater-Kinney concert, exceptions can be made. I arrived in time for Black Belt Eagle Scout as they were warming up the eager crowd of ‘90s music fans. The band attacked their guitars to create catchy-distorted melodies, getting the crowd engaged and interested.

Surprisingly, Fred Armisen made an inconspicuous appearance in the VIP section, indubitably supporting his long-time collaborator Carrie Brownstein. Sleater-Kinney’s connection with comedy would not end there, as the band’s tour manager would go up during the intermission before the plat principle to warm up the crowd with zany jokes about pickles.

Although missing their original drummer, Janet Weiss, the remaining original members, and their backing band still had enough of the original pixie dust to make it work. Both Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker eviscerated the venue with their high-energy riot-grrrl punk. Even in middle age, their ferocity and energy have yet to age. They are still one of the best female-fronted rock bands performing.