Sleater-Kinney is surprisingly mellow on new single “Method”

Sleater-Kinney have released their new track “Method” along with a lyric video by Lance Bangs. The single is the latest release from their upcoming album, Path of Wellness, which will be out this Friday via Mom + Pop Records. The follow-up to “Worry With You” and “High Grass,” it’s obvious the band is still looking to explore new sounds. 

A little bit more relaxed than their Riot Grrrl days, “Method” is surprisingly mellow. An unexpected plea for tenderness, the track sees Carrie Brownstein drop her tough exterior. Begging “could you be a little nicer to me / could you try a little kindness maybe?” the song is unexpectedly vulnerable. Even Brownstein’s razor-sharp vocals seem slightly dull as she admits to the stuttering and setbacks adding to her reservations. With a lax bassline and easygoing guitars, it seems like the band can’t even force themselves to fight. 

Sleater-Kinney also announced this week that they will be releasing a variety show hosted by Charles Hewett. The show will feature a few songs in addition to in-depth interviews. The show will air on June 10 on Amazon Music’s Twitch Channel. 

The band will also be heading out on a co-headlining tour later this summer with Wilco. The dates will kick off on August 5 in Spokane, Washington, and will wrap up on August 28 in Chicago. They will be playing in Philadelphia at The Mann Center. You can grab your tickets here and listen to the new song below.