Dig Me Out

Lots of feelings and vulnerabilities exposed with this one. I first heard Sleater-Kinney when they opened for Pearl Jam in 2003. I was…not a fan. My ears felt assaulted. In the almost 20 years since I first heard them, I have tried several times to like them. I SHOULD like them because they have all the pieces of a band I should love. Women who rock and pull no punches. A sound that is unique and a message I can get behind. I can’t quite figure out what I turns me off so much and I have spent way too much time pondering this question. I thought at first that it was the way her voice sounds like reverb to me, but I think that could be really interesting used in the right way. I actually really dig the music so that isn’t it either. I think what it boils down to is that it feels like she is just shouting at me. Now stick with me here because this is the soul bearing part. It turns out that I have a huge double standard. I can listen to a man scream into a microphone and find it earnest and impassioned. I listen to a woman scream into the microphone and I find that I want her to tone it down, pretty it up, not be so emotional. Oh fuck, how did I get to be so sexist?! And now you know my deepest shame. It turns out that I want to smash the patriarchy but in a nice (and more melodic) way, which is really not smashing it at all but just succumbing to my programming. I’m giving this album 5 stars and I will keep listening to it because this album, more than any other, has made me think about myself and how I view the world and who taught me to view it the way that I do. It turns out I disliked Sleater-Kinney because it feels like an exposed nerve, which I think is kind of the point. And one that I want to keep exposing.

3.4 - The songs rock but I find the vocals shriek-y, like I'm being yelled at by my girlfriend for 35 minutes straight.

This entire album just worked for me, the dissonance, distortion, the low production value, everything about it just clicked

This is the kind of album that makes me regret not listening to it sooner, because I could have been enjoying this one for years already. Perfect blend of punk, indie & menacing, angular post-punk vibes. Great strong vocals. Whole album is lean as hell with no spare flabby moments. 5* quality.

This is one of the best albums that I didn't know and I'm listening now with this site. This is just a great and classical rock album with all the strength and soul that was expected from a real rock album. For sure, it is a five-star album

This was like listening to my angsty 14 year old sisters band in 1993.

S-K makes the good music. The guitar tone is consistently excellent across the album, very raw to go with the vocals. My ear for drums must still be amateur, as this is where most notice a change for the better with the introduction of Janet. But I haven't listened to any of their live material post-departure, and it's about time to return to their latest.

I'm profoundly late to the Sleater-Kinney party. And hallelujah, it's a 90s rock album that's not over an hour long, clocking in at a lean 37 minutes. And those 37 kick ass. People complaining about Corin Tucker's voice can't hang. Highlights: Dig Me Out, One More Hour, Words and Guitar, Little Babies

Verlaine's guitar, Patti's yodel, Joey/Dee Dee/Tommy/Johnny's/'s pithiness, Thurston/Ranaldo/Gordon's turbulence. It's amazing when a band can wear their influences so proudly, yet still sound utterly unique. Every song is an anthem to be played while the world collapses, and during its reconstruction.

Stop warbling for christ sake

I’m about to go on a tear, because this record’s got me fired up. So buckle up and get your helmet on, it’s going to get real. In my reviews, I’ve often made reference to the idea that “indie rock” doesn’t mean anything anymore, that it’s just a style that’s being chased, a formula, a bland melange of nothingness…an image to be sold for your springtime trip to Coachella. So when I listen to “Dig Me Out” once again…a record I’ve known for years, a record that has character, that has something to say, that stands for something, a record with a sense of purpose and palpable aggression…well, fuck me, but I can’t help but feel that I’m right about the sorry state of modern “indie”. Everything that makes Sleater-Kinney great is absent from a large swath of modern indie music. There’s no comparison, no analog for Sleater-Kinney, because they weren’t interested in fitting into a scene, they were making it their own. “Dig Me Out” is a five star record for all of the reasons I outlined above, but also because the guitar playing is excellent, the drumming is great and the songs, one after another, are fantastic. It’s got attitude and individuality and if you don’t like what Sleater-Kinney has to say, I’m pretty sure they’d have no problem telling you to go fuck yourself. In closing, Sleater-Kinney is cooler than you could ever hope to be.

This one his hard. I mean, it's punk, right? You don't expect pretty vocals from a punk album. And, as a fan of punk, I'm not much bothered by harsh, off-tone, or grating vocals. Nor do I have issues with female vox that are brash and rough. I kinda dig the riot grrl thing, to be honest. That said, I do think that the main vocalist is the primary issue here. The problems are two-fold. First, the vocals are super inconsistent. One track will be great, the next will be indiscipherably mumble-shouted. The next will start great and then turn into atonal nonsense. The second issue is Corin Tucker's leaning into her vibrato too heavily. Her vocals on this album are a one-trick-pony that's asked to perform so often that the trick loses its novelty. Overall, though, this is a solid punk album and I'm here for the riot grrl schtick. It works for me.

This is what this project is all about. Dig Me Out is the best surprise I’ve gotten so far. Corin Tucker’s vocals are incredible. So raw, her natural vibrato conveys some urgency it’s almost panic. Add in blaring, frantic guitars and you have a borderline masterpiece. This album is unrelenting from start to finish. Dig Me Out, One More Hour, Turn It Out are a stellar opening, Jenny is an incredible closer. Just to take a few 9.1/10 6.2/10

My musical education started in the nineties, and of course I've been aware of who Sleater-Kinney are since that time, and their importance for the riot grrrrl movement taken in its larger understanding. An old friend of mine is a huge fan of this album, for instance, and I've always loved the reference to the Kinks on its cover and artwork. But oddly enough, before *Dig Me Out* popped on this app, I had never given it the attention it fully deserved. And boy oh boy (or should I say, *girl oh girl*), how excited I am to finally discover it properly. The energy on this LP is just fantastic, earworms abound (whether they come from the melodic guitars or the impassioned vocals), and the tracklisting has the sorts of dynamics I usually love in rock albums. A quick listen might give you the wrong impression that the songs are quite the same, but their respective moods are actually pretty different from each other, Sleater-Kinney always picking up the ball to send it in an unexpected melodic direction from song to song. To be a little more specific... The title track opening the album is as tense as it should be, thanks to its minor chords, "One More Hour"'s vocals are as catchy as its quavers on guitar are enticing, "Heart Factory" is the band's version of a blues cut using nineties quiet-loud-quiet shenanigans to great effects (nice percussion sounds in the background, by the way), "It's Enough" is short and sharp, "Things You Say" has an elated chorus, while groovy and organ-laden "Dance Song '97" foretells what Le Tigre would do a few years later--here referring to another important riot grrrl figure, Kathleen Hannah (more about that later on). As for the last track "Jenny", it aptly closes the proceedings on a moody note that leaves you wanting for more. And these here are just highlights among many others. I don't think there's a single dud in this fantastic record. I rarely give 5 stars for albums I didn't already know by heart on this app. And here I am giving such mark now. So I'm buying this LP right away. And speaking about riot grrrrls, it also gives me the occasion to buy another record by Bikini Kill on the side. Bikini Kill is the first band of Kathleen Hannah, another pivotal figure of that "girl indie punk-rock" movement who would later found Le Tigre, as I said earlier. I've had my eye on that Bikini Kill release for quite some time now, and I can't resist taking it as a companion piece for *Dig Me Out* (at least if I can find a version of it that's cheap enough). So thanks, Dimery and co. Number of albums left to review: 571 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 207 (including this one) Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 100 Albums from the list I will certainly *not* include in mine (many others are more essential to me): 126

Record labels did a horrible job exposing gems like this to me when I was 27 years old. That's the only explanation for why I never heard this until now. What an absolute fucking joy. After 309 albums, I live for moments like this: Finding something new (to me) and immediately falling so hard it that a band becomes a new obsession. This warranted a repeat listen right away, since I didn't want it to end (but props to Spotify for following it up with a banger by The New Pornographers). We could all use a little more Sleater-Kinney in our lives.

Man, talk about a band that helped define the music of the 90s. This album contains some of the best guitar work of the decade with vocals that just rip your face off. It’s not my favorite of Sleater Kinney’s, but that’s just a compliment to their discography.

A Sleater-Kinney song could possibly work for me in a soundtrack but I’ve never been able to get involved in their stuff

Shit

1997, great year for music. I listen to this all the time, but probably only discovered it about 10 years ago. One More Hour, right in the feels. Oh you've got the darkest eyes.

Nr. 39/1001 Dig Me Out 3/5 One More Hour 2/5 Turn it On 2/5 The Drama You've Been Craving 2/5 Heart Factor 1/5 Words and Guitar 1/5 It's Enough 1/5 Little Babies 2/5 Not What You Want 2/5 Buy Her Candy 3/5 Things You Say 4/5 Dance Song '97 2/5 Jenny 3/5 Average: 2,15 Had a hard time with the vocals

This might actually be a 4 Star, but it hit me on the right day and in the right mood. I want to be in a Riot Grrl band when I grow up.

Punk classic. No skips.

This has such an attitude that no matter what you do with the album itself it stays with you. You wanna raise a feminist fist and say “fuck the patriarchy”. Every tune is punk in all the right places while possessing some straight banging riffs and biting lyrics.

Fabulous. Phenomenal.

Holy shit I forgot how much this album rocks. THANK YOU.

Great album, really liked it. V 90s, intense, quite grungy. Excellent.

One of the greatest albums of the 90s. Guitar interplay is amazing. Corin Tucker's vocals are incredible. 9-10/10

Like a cherry bomb of emo punk energy

I love the Riot Grrrl sound so much. Not only is this important music, it is also impressively powerful, raging, and Righteous.

Punk in which the singer can actually sing? Well this is something I haven't heard before! If she could turn off the tremolo in her voice, I would have given this the missing star.

Female punk > Male punk Always has been.

cool fem rock

Daaamn, sounds fucking good. gay gay homosexual gay

Sleater-Kinney find their stride on this album full of angst and polish. Girl rock deserves some special attention as this exemplifies what the genre can offer.

Super fun riot grrrl stuff. Gets a little samey, but not in a bad way. It wants you align with its vibe, and if you won't do that then fuck you. I like that energy.

Dig Me Out I think I would have really liked this when it came out. It’s fun and punchy with a nice punky energy, and there are some good hooks and songs, especially when the lead lines go a bit droning and dissonant. However, and although it does have a point of difference, it does get a bit too generic 90s US alt rock adjacent at times for me. Dig Me Out is a good example of the whole album; fun, great attack, energetic spirit, nice guitar lines, brief and to the point, confident and charming but perhaps lacking a bit of swing or rhythmic variation or some kind of je ne sais quoi to make it really good. Turn it On is probably my stand out, the almost Indian guitar licks give it a pleasingly different texture. Words and Guitar and It’s Enough are also very good, the lead lines giving a similarly nice tone, and the change of pace of Jenny is nice too. Overall it's one of those albums where, despite the appealing energy and overall brevity, you start to feel the limitations of the guitar, bass and drums format. That doesn’t make it bad, there are some very good tracks, and I would listen again in the right mood, but it doesn’t quite get above being decent, making it a solid to high 3. ⛏️⛏️⛏️ Playlist submission: Turn it On

Heartfelt and nicely recorded post-punk! Listening to this I was thinking about how refreshing it is to hear women doing heavy music without relying on tropes but rather investigating and expressing their own point of view, unapologetically, without compromise. And Punk is the format for that - the idea of people outside the mainstream doing what they want, don't really care what you think. Reminded me a little of Throwing Muses, but with even more edge. Glad to hear this, I've heard of the band but never had a chance to listen. I would give it 3 1/2 stars if I could.

Been kind of looking forward to hearing this. Always heard the name and saw articles in magazines back then but never really heard the music. The first track did nothing for me. Some okay melodies and a couple hooks. Overall, very of it's time, not too much to write home about.

So So Album with a lacking lead singer imo

Wow. This really sucks. Seriously, it's an insult to musicians everywhere. It's not even bad in a good way. It's just stupid. I made it as far as halfway through "Words and Guitar" and than I cracked. I do love the name though; I remember seeing that exit on I-5 around Olympia and doing a double take.

Like listening to screeching cats. Different vocals could fix this, but this absolutely unlistenable. Reminds me of that video of Yoko ruining John Lennon and Chuck Berry's live performance.

reminds me of that art project where they have women try to read books whilst sat atop a sybian this has so much vibrato / voice trembling that it sounds as if they are also doing that

I know this band is that type of Gen X alt rock that I don't like, but I've never heard them before so I'll give this a chance. Maybe it WON'T be annoying. Wait never mind, it is and it's crap. stop ULULATING ffs. Oh Christ, it's even worse than I thought. The wailing just cuts through everything and never relents. This is a fucking 1/5.

Why must she sing ?

Female empowerment.

Slaps from front to back

Riffs good riffs

For the genre it represents, it is a great album.

https://tenor.com/view/dude-fuck-yes-spongebob-gif-6177768983096005846

>>> the Beatles Fuck yes. This rules

Feminine prowess Proudly gutted and displayed, Fiercely rooted punk

Really liked this. Great energy here.

Phenomenal, energetic, underrated

I'm always on the lookout for more female rock bands. This is a great addition to the collection. Good muscle behind them, and a powerful voice. I dig thism

why did st. vincent destroy sleater-kinney why annie

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN THIS ALBUM INVENTED PUNK MUSIC!! ONE OF THE FEW LPS FROM THIS LIST SO FAR THAT I OWN!!! FUCK THE RAMONES AND THE CRO-MAGS LISTEN TO THIS INSTEAD

I can only listen to Sleater-Kinney when my wife isn't home. She "hates the voices". I love her, but sometimes she has atrocious taste in music.

Dig me some Sleater-Kinney. High-energy dissonant guitar hooks battling with the vocals for the spotlight of attention. And no bass, because fuck bass, that's why. 'Turn It On' is such a good hype song, and oh yeah (x3), someone should tell Karen O about this group. I think she might enjoy their work.

Totally forgot just how great Sleater-Kinney is. Phenomenal record - energetic guitars, insisting vocals and attitude for days. Oh yeah and the bass? No need! You think Spice Girls was the feminist group of the 90’s? Think again.

I've loved this album since I first heard it. And though I've heard it a bunch of times now, I kind of came to this one way after the fact. Granted I was little when it came out but I didn't really even discover it until the past few years. It's such a good blend of punk and pop rock. I get that the vocals may not be to everyone's liking but, to me, that's where a lot of the charm of the album comes from. And I'm a sucker for a female vocalist. It may not be my favorite album on this list, but for what it is it's fantastic and I play it a lot. 5/5

I think it's hard to argue that this isn't the greatest riot grrrl album of all time. The energy and the passion displayed on this project are just unbeatable.

Turn it on

No album has spoken to the queer experience of bisexual women like Dig Me Out. I’ve loved Sleater-Kinney since college, a decade before I even came out. Their songs hit me on so many levels– lyrically, sonically, emotionally, historically, aesthetically. While I think you could make an argument in favor of The Woods or The Hot Rock or even Call the Doctor, this was my gateway, and if you’re going to listen to one, it’s this. Potentially a Top 10 album of all time for me.

This definitely warrants classic status. It’s poppy where it needs to be, angular and dissonant throughout. The emotions are raw on this album and Corin Tucker has a unique and effective voice.

Good Rock record

This is a consistent masterpiece from the beginning. If you hate it because you feel like your angry teenage screaming at you, well it did a perfect job playing with your bias. There is enough adult message and musical ingenuity on this to fill out twenty contemporary indie records. This was a beginning, but unfortunately hardly ever anyone really followed the options presented. (I admit listening to them live at the times they toured with Pearl Jam was a challenge, to say the least)

Loved that

Overall: 10/10 Perfection. Sleater-Kinney were the first "all girl" punk band I ever listened to and they showed me that not any can women rock out, but they often do it harder and better than the men. This is actually my 3rd favourite album by them which shows just how amazing their entire discography is (I would have at least added The Woods to this list). Corrin's incredible vocals, Carrie's creative and interesting lead work and Janet Weiss's pounding, infectious rhythms make this one of the greatest statements in rock/punk history. I can't say enough good things about how much this album and band mean to me. Fav Song: Dig Me Out Least Fav Song: Not What You Want

Dig Me Out is the only Sleater-Kinney CD I actually own, simply because it's their best album. It's the sweet spot in their (now long) discography. Their first two releases the band was still raw and unfocused, but had a punk energy and spirit that gained the band attention and post-Dig Me Out, the band lost some of that punk spirit and their sound became more homogenized. Dig Me Out has some great songs and the guitar work from Carrie Brownstein is underrated, but my only issue is Corin's shrieky vocal style, which at times makes it a difficult listen. Add to the fact the band doesn't have a bass player, so their sound is even more treble-pitched, with a lack of low end. Fortunately, the debut of a (real good) drummer, Janet Weiss really benefits the band, which results in a tighter sound, yet maximizes the punk sound more effectively. I like this album a lot, it was an important record that propelled them beyond just the riot-grrrl scene and made more people take notice. I give it 4 stars for the music and a bonus 1 star for the terrific album cover art homage to the Kinks Kontroversy cover, which I consider one of the finest.

Fucking awesome energy. Brilliant, catchy songwriting, and while sometimes the voice can be a bit grating, fix your EQ... A banging album that is too much overlooked - at least among people I talk to

5/5. Hell yeah, love this raw and straightforward punk album. I'm sure they would be great live, they just give that kind of energy. I've listened to some newer Sleater-Kinney before but this one has that missing amateur element some of the more polished albums lack. At first, I was thrown off by her vocals but just like David Byrne, it just matches perfectly after another listen. Back to back punk rock. I could pick out mistakes or songs that aren't perfect but this was just so good most of the time that it gets that perfect score. Best Song: One More Hour, Dig Me Out, Little Babies, Not What You Want

FINALLY a good 90s album. I'm sure the reviews for this are going to be polarized. I'm in the camp that Corin Tucker's vocals are amazing but I get why they might not be for everybody. This album is a fantastic slab of indie-punk and somehow not even SK's best album. 4.5/5

My god, the woman from Portlandia dropped an absolute banger. I had never heard of Sleater-Kinney before, and had no clue the Portlandia actress did music, but she does and it's awesome. This is one of the most catchy punk albums that I've heard before. Their sound is so big (with only three people in the band), basically every song has some guitar riff that lodges its way in my head, the drums are super powerful (and I rarely notice the drums), the singer's voice is super unique. I've listened to this like 4 times in the last 24 hours, this is awesome. For some history, I guess Sleater-Kinney is considered to be part of the "riot grrrl" movement (which is a stupid name) but was a woman-led indie/punk rock movement on the west coast in the '90s. This album really does highlight how underrepresented woman-led bands are on this list. It's a pretty huge miss in my opinion, but it at least allows me to enjoy things like this when they come up. Also my favorite song on here is "One More Hour", which apparently is about two of the band members breaking up. Sad it didn't work out, but it's an awesome song. "Buy Her Candy" is another standout for me later in the album. I don't have much else to say about this, just one of those completely new albums to me that I really loved. I should watch Portlandia again. Favorite song: One More Hour Other: Dig Me In, Turn It On, The Drama You've Been Craving, Heart Factory, Words and Guitar, Little Babies, Not What You Want, Buy Her Candy, Dance Song '97, Jenny 10/9/24

Wow! Never knew this existed! Really good stuff! Heavy riffs and lyrics with lots of bite!

### **Album Overview: "Dig Me Out" by Sleater-Kinney** "Dig Me Out," released in 1997, is the third studio album by the American rock band Sleater-Kinney. This album is often heralded as a defining moment in the Riot Grrrl movement and alternative rock of the 1990s. Known for its raw energy, distinctive sound, and powerful lyrics, "Dig Me Out" showcases the band's growth and maturity, featuring new drummer Janet Weiss, who added a fresh dynamic to the group's established chemistry. The album's combination of aggressive rock riffs, feminist themes, and emotional depth has made it a staple in indie rock, earning a place on several "best of" lists over the years. ### **Lyrics** The lyrics in "Dig Me Out" are a central aspect of its impact. The album explores themes of love, heartbreak, frustration, identity, and empowerment. Corin Tucker and Carrie Brownstein, the band's primary songwriters, craft lyrics that are direct, confrontational, and introspective. Tracks like the title song, "Dig Me Out," set the tone with themes of personal struggle and resilience. The lyrics convey a sense of digging oneself out of a painful situation, a metaphor for emotional turmoil. "One More Hour" delves into the complexities of a breakup, likely referencing Tucker and Brownstein's past romantic relationship, adding a personal and confessional layer to the album. Lines such as "I know I'm your only one / But I can say your name" express both longing and a sense of finality. Songs like "Words and Guitar" celebrate the freedom and power found in music, blending autobiographical elements with broader feminist themes. "Little Babies" critiques societal expectations placed on women, particularly around motherhood, while maintaining a playful, almost nursery-rhyme feel. The lyrics are often marked by their sense of urgency and defiance. There's a raw honesty in how they address both the personal and the political, weaving between heartbreak and empowerment. The band's ability to balance vulnerability with strength is a key element that resonates with listeners, making the album both relatable and cathartic. ### **Music** Musically, "Dig Me Out" is characterized by its jagged guitar riffs, energetic tempo, and dynamic interplay between Tucker and Brownstein's guitars. The absence of a bass guitar is notable, yet the sound never feels lacking; instead, the dual guitars create a thick, textured sound that fills the sonic space. The addition of Janet Weiss on drums is a significant evolution for the band. Weiss's drumming adds depth and complexity, providing a more grounded rhythm section that complements the frenetic energy of the guitars. The album opens with the title track, "Dig Me Out," which immediately sets the tone with a driving rhythm and discordant guitar work, reflecting the tension and urgency in the lyrics. "One More Hour" stands out with its infectious, repetitive riff and emotional intensity, combining raw emotion with a catchy melody. "Turn It On" and "Dance Song '97" are fast-paced tracks that showcase the band's punk influences, while "It's Enough" slows things down, revealing a more melodic side. The songs often shift between minimalist verses and explosive choruses, maintaining a high level of intensity throughout. The guitar work is angular and sharp, with frequent use of power chords and dissonant harmonies, creating a distinctive sound that sets Sleater-Kinney apart from their peers. Tucker's distinctive voice, characterized by a wavering vibrato, adds an extra layer of intensity and emotion, contrasting with Brownstein's more straightforward vocal style. ### **Production** "Dig Me Out" was produced by John Goodmanson, who played a pivotal role in capturing the band's raw energy while adding a layer of polish that distinguishes the album from its predecessors. The production is clean but not overly polished, maintaining the rough edges that give the music its raw, visceral quality. The guitar tones are crisp and sharp, with a slight overdrive that enhances the punk-rock aesthetic. Goodmanson's production emphasizes the interplay between the guitars and the dynamics within each song. The drums are given a prominent place in the mix, reflecting the importance of Janet Weiss's contribution. Vocals are clear and upfront, allowing the emotional weight of the lyrics to come through without being buried by the instrumentation. While the production is generally praised for its clarity and balance, some critics argue that it may lack a certain warmth or depth. The sharpness of the guitar tones and the bright, high-end-heavy mix can feel abrasive to some listeners, particularly during extended listening sessions. However, this approach aligns with the raw, confrontational nature of the music and lyrics, enhancing the album's overall impact. ### **Themes** "Dig Me Out" delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and personal empowerment, framed within a broader feminist context. The album's title itself suggests a struggle to overcome adversity, both on a personal and political level. Many of the songs address the challenges women face in both their personal lives and the broader societal context. The theme of love and loss is explored in depth, particularly in tracks like "One More Hour," which captures the emotional turmoil of a breakup. However, the album is not merely about vulnerability; it is also about strength and resilience. Songs like "Words and Guitar" and "Little Babies" are anthems of defiance and empowerment, celebrating the band's independence and challenging societal expectations. There's a strong undercurrent of feminist politics throughout the album, though it is never didactic or preachy. Instead, Sleater-Kinney presents these themes through personal narratives and direct, often visceral language, making the political deeply personal. The album's exploration of identity, autonomy, and resistance aligns it with the core values of the Riot Grrrl movement, while also transcending it, appealing to a broader audience. ### **Influence and Legacy** "Dig Me Out" is widely regarded as a landmark album in the indie rock and Riot Grrrl movements. It has influenced countless artists in the years since its release, not only for its sound but also for its approach to songwriting and its commitment to feminist ideals. The album's raw energy and emotive power helped to redefine what punk and indie rock could be, particularly for women in a male-dominated genre. Sleater-Kinney's influence is evident in the work of contemporary bands like The Gossip, Savages, and even more mainstream acts like Paramore. The band's commitment to authenticity and its ability to blend punk aggression with melodic sensibility paved the way for a new generation of musicians. "Dig Me Out" also helped to raise the profile of women in rock, proving that they could be just as fierce, innovative, and important as their male counterparts. The album's legacy is further cemented by its inclusion in numerous "best of" lists, including Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Albums of All Time." It remains a touchstone for fans of punk, indie, and alternative music, and a testament to the power of music as a vehicle for personal and political expression. ### **Pros** 1. **Powerful Lyrics**: The lyrics are both personal and political, offering a raw, honest look at themes of love, heartbreak, identity, and empowerment. They are emotionally resonant and relatable. 2. **Distinctive Sound**: The album features a unique sound characterized by its angular guitar riffs, dynamic interplay, and lack of a bass guitar. This creates a sonic signature that sets it apart from other rock albums of the era. 3. **Strong Production**: The production by John Goodmanson captures the band's raw energy while adding clarity and balance. The mix emphasizes the dynamic interplay between the guitars and the importance of the drums. 4. **Feminist Themes**: The album's exploration of feminist themes through a personal lens makes it both timely and timeless, resonating with a wide audience beyond the Riot Grrrl movement. 5. **Influence and Legacy**: "Dig Me Out" has had a significant impact on indie and punk rock, influencing a range of artists and helping to redefine the role of women in rock music. ### **Cons** 1. **Abrasive Production for Some**: The bright, high-end-heavy mix and sharp guitar tones can be abrasive for some listeners, especially during extended listening sessions. 2. **Repetitiveness**: Some critics argue that the album's sonic palette can feel repetitive, with many songs featuring similar guitar tones and structures. This could limit its appeal to listeners who prefer more variation in their music. 3. **Limited Accessibility**: The band's confrontational style and Tucker's distinctive vocal delivery may not appeal to all listeners. Her vibrato and pitch can be polarizing, which may affect the album's broader accessibility. 4. **Niche Appeal**: Despite its influence, "Dig Me Out" remains somewhat niche, appealing primarily to fans of indie, punk, and Riot Grrrl. Those outside these genres may find it less compelling. ### **Conclusion** "Dig Me Out" by Sleater-Kinney is a seminal album that captures the raw emotion, energy, and defiance of the band at a critical moment in their career. Its powerful lyrics, distinctive sound, and exploration of feminist themes make it a standout work in the indie rock canon. While its abrasive production and confrontational style may not appeal to everyone, the album's influence and legacy are undeniable, solidifying its place as a landmark release in alternative music. The album's combination of personal and political themes continues to resonate, offering a blueprint for future generations of musicians looking to blend authenticity with artistry.

Riffs impeccables, chant impeccable, pas aussi bien que Le Tigre mais 5/5 quand même

You better wise up, Janet Weiss!

The first few bars felt a bit jagged for me and I was concerned...but no need, this was really quite an excellent album of its genre. Mind you, this is not a style that is my top rotation, but I dabble a bit from time to time.

It's about time! This was really fun. I'm glad that the kids I know get to grow up in a world where this album exists.

Sweater-Kinney is a band that I have long felt negligent for not knowing more about. After all, I am routinely near that exit in Olympia Washington. A cool local girl group should be a no brainer but for whatever reason I’ve never heard more than a snippet of this group. I was a little surprised when I played this about how much of a Go-Go’s vibe I felt from the vocals! I really enjoyed this. I’m glad to have the Go-Go’s and Sleater-Kinney on this list!

Hadn't heard of Sleater-Kinney before... really enjoyed this one! Here's to the riot grrrls!

An all time favourite of mine.

Got this the day after Throwing Muses debut and could really hear their influence on S-K. Love the back and forth vocals and guitar parts and the Kinks tribute cover . Janet Weiss remains my favorite rock drummer.

This album got a lot of play on my college radio show, Fallopian Tunes. My inner riot grrrl never tires of this classic.

Some excellent bits

It was the start of something special, a perfect alchemy. Corin Tucker, Carrie Brownstein and Janet Weiss came together for under forty minutes of pure rock perfection, the kind where words and guitar (and boisterous drums) form the tsunami that could and would obliterate what came before and what would define what came after. Seven albums and over twenty years later, it would hard to consider Dig Me Out as anything but a bedrock. It has proven itself as the foundation to which the bands it has influenced since its release have based themselves on as well as the very image of Sleater-Kinney; the next step in feminist rock idealism that is as accessible as it is still piercing.

I wasn't previously too familiar with Sleater-Kinney. I loved this - right from the opening licks the intensity just never lets up in true punk / grunge style. I wouldn't normally pay much attention to drumming, but on account of this being their first album with a notable new drummer I did, and I found it really 'drives' the music. The vocals are fantastic as well, I don't agree with the comments criticising - it's punk rock and it should sound passionate and loud! It's also nice when you discover a band on this list that is still active so I'm gonna listen to their new record 'Little Rope' right now too

Brilliant

Rating: 9.5/10 Amazing album overall, what a great mix of punk and indie rock. The guitar riffs are the standout element of this album, so incredibly melodic yet driving. The singer and drummer bring so much energy which helps drive the music and complement the fantastic melodies perfectly. Overall this album is very catchy and fun to listen to. Favorite songs: pretty much all of them. Least favorite song: Heart Factory.

Everything about this album is just perfect: the shouty vocals of the two singers, the guitar playing and most of all the very strong songwriting. To me it seems that they took just an arbitrary SK album from their 95-05 and included it in the 1001 list: the other albums from that period are equally good (all clear 5 star) - I am not sure if I know any other rock band from that period that had such a high quality control on their output.

I really like the voices Fav songs: turn it on Things you say ;-)

YES!!!! This is the album I should have been given yesterday on my triumphant last day at a thankless job working for a dickhead boss that I hate. And I am finally free!!! And this is the perfect soundtrack to coincide with my liberation from all the bullshit. This album is rad. It’s badass. It’s balls to the wall shrieking vocals and guitars that pierce your eardrums and skewer your soul. It’s so fucking good. It’s way more divergent, daring, and unique than its peers. A subversive wailing voice that gives me life. I love it.

Oh yes. Dissident vibes from home. Gotta love it.

The audio equivalent of being slapped in the face over and over again for 30 minutes.

I bloody love Sleater-Kinney. Love this album. I prefer their later album the Woods but this is a complete banger as well, happy it's on here. Such a great band, I love the whole history of the music in that period and the connections between them and Bikini Kill and the Riot Grrrl music and more current with St Vincent etc. I'm a big fan of Carrie Brownstein, I read her book recently and it was great. Like a few music docs and books I've read it ends quite sad all like 'and the band is over and I'm sad' but now 10 years later Sleater-Kinney they've had like 3 new albums which are great haha.

Saw johnny at the store I said Get your car let's hit the road Oh tell me baby what's wrong? He said Tell me baby what's wrong? do do do do.... She's on fire now You think you wanna watch I think you'd better not Do you wanna get the wheel Swerve my heart It pounds with steel Oh tell me baby what's wrong? He said Tell me baby what's wrong? It's not what you want it's everything Got my foot on the floor We'll go 80 95 maybe more Tell me baby what's wrong? He said Tell me baby what's wrong? It's not what you want it's everything This is a great album. I never listened to an S-K album all the way through before this - Its exactly what it needs to be, and its solid all the way through. 5/5

100000000000000000000000000000000000/5

Hell yeah, I love this record! We play this at our house pretty regularly, so already a 5/5 without having to listen, but I did anyways!

An electric album! Full of riffs!

"Dig Me Out" is the third studio album by American rock band Sleater-Kinney. It is considered their breakthrough as they changed labels to Kill Rock Stars to get a wider audience. It was also the debut of drummer Janet Weiss which solidied their sound. And their music? Some say punk. Yeah, that fits but ultimately it's just rock and roll. The music and album cover were influenced by and paid homage to the Kinks' "The Kink Kontroversy." Besides Weiss, Sleater-Kinney is Carrie Brownstein (guitar, vocals) and Corin Tucker (vocals, guitar). According to Carrie Brownstein, all the songs are about her relationship with Corin Tucker and Tucker's relationship with her future husband, Lance Bangs. The album had wide-spread critical acclaim. A guitar riff and in comes the pounding drums as "Dig Me Out" starts. Corin screaming, howling. This is very much in your face. Corin's trying to get out of a relationship (with Carrie?). "DIg me out, Dig me in, the mess we're in." Well, there's no doubt what the next song is about. "One More Hour" is about the Carrie-Corin break-up. Dual layered guitars, both with melodies to die for. Corin's emotional lead vocals. Carrie's criss-cross backing vocals. "Oh, you've got the darkest eyes." The speed up. The slow down. This is one of the best songs of the 90's and one of those you want to play again after it's over. "Turn It On" has more in-your-face lyrics. Handclapping. A nice rock-pop melody. "Words and Guitars" has a catchy chorus and more criss-cross vocals from Carrie and howling from Corin. She's contrasting what music is expected of girls to play and what they play. I wouldn't want to get into an argument with her on this. They continue the counterpoint and protest to traditional feminist roles in "Little Babies." Bringing the catchy chorus "dum dum dee dee dum dum dee dum yeah." A a great Carrie guitar solo. "Buy Her Candy" has just a guitar and Carrie's voice and is one of the strong songs on the album as she likes a girl even though she's fickle and selfish. "Dance Song '97" brings a dance beat. Yeah. Melodic layered guitars and what appears to be a simple song about being in love. This is a great album and one of my favorite of the 90's. Catchy vocals and melodic hooks. Corin's voice is a thing of power and emotion. Urgent sounding guitars. Pounding drums. An outpouring of personal lyrics in the songs. No Sleater-Kinney album is a bad listen and this one is up there with "The Hot Rock" and "One Beat" as their best.