Carrie Brownstein talks about extraterrestrials, sandwiches, and poor fashion choices: “Wearing big hats is my most repeated fashion faux pas.”

Estimated read time 5 min read

What ingredients would your sandwich contain if it was named after you?

Peanut butter, banana and honey and a little bit of cinnamon. That is a pretty dessert-like sandwich but literally, before we started speaking, I ate one. Often when I’m working or traveling, I’ll eat at least one peanut butter sandwich a day. It is good protein!

What is your preferred guitar?

In 2000, I purchased a 1972 Gibson SG in a walnut brown color in Tacoma, Washington. I had previously only played an imitation Epiphone version of the SG, and later transitioned to Rickenbackers. However, I set my sights on owning an authentic 1970s Gibson SG.

During the Norlin era of Gibson, there was a period of uncertainty surrounding the quality of guitars produced. Some believe that the guitars made during this time were not as reliable and consistent in terms of sound compared to those made in earlier or later eras. Despite being a Norlin era guitar, mine has a fantastic sound. I appreciate the thin neck, as my hands are not particularly large. This guitar is my go-to choice and I used it to record many tracks, including “Little Rope”.

Brownstein with the Gibson SG on stage at the O2 Academy Brixton, London in February 2020.

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What is the most valuable guidance you have ever been given?

Patience is key. There may be situations that seem extremely worrisome and impossible to overcome in the present, but after six months have passed, they no longer hold the same weight. We can easily get caught up in emotions like anger, jealousy, or confusion, but if we simply wait it out, these feelings become insignificant in the grand scheme of things.

You have previously referred to Australia as the spiritual birthplace of Sleater-Kinney. What is the most Australian action you have ever taken?

Perhaps consider dating an Australian? That may sound insensitive – as if I am implying that I actually dated an Australian, which I suppose I have. However, I am deeply integrated into Australian culture.

What is the most regrettable fashion choice you have made so far?

I am often guilty of what I refer to as my “tour outfit”. When I travel to places like Mexico or Marfa, Texas, I’ll pick out a big cowboy hat and think it looks amazing on me. I end up wearing it for the entire trip, in every photo I take. But when I return home, I cringe at the thought.

This situation is reminiscent of a horror film – entering my closet, I discover a hat that seems to have been placed there by a stranger. How horrible and out of place is this piece of clothing? It’s suddenly ridiculous and fake-looking, causing me to quickly discard it. Wearing oversized hats is a recurring fashion mistake for me.

How do you handle difficulty falling asleep?

I enjoy listening to podcasts or audiobooks, as long as the speaker has a mellifluous and soothing voice. One of my favorites is Jon Ronson, who has a wonderful tone. His voice is very calming and lacks harshness, with a slightly thin and pleasant quality.

Do you have faith in the existence of other beings on other planets?

It is my desire that it is not only humans who possess the ability to construct a society. It is egocentric to believe so, as there may be other species in a distant corner of the universe engaging in similar activities. It is even possible that we are living in a simulation created by another species. This thought may provide a sense of comfort in knowing that we are not alone.

Do you possess a special skill or talent that you perform at parties?

I am able to juggle for a decent duration, impressing others temporarily. However, I am only comfortable with using spherical objects and will not attempt juggling knives or fire.

What movie traumatized you when you were a child?

I viewed The Shining at a young age, which was quite frightening. In my childhood, I enjoyed watching horror movies like Nightmare on Elm Street, which were more fictitious and implausible. But after seeing The Shining, I realized that true horror exists, stemming from isolation and the pressure of meeting a writing deadline.

When was the most recent occasion when you were untruthful?

I frequently make excuses to cancel plans, even if they are not entirely true. It’s not because I have other plans, but because I prefer to stay in. I want to start being more truthful about it, instead of coming up with false reasons like a sore throat or working late. I should just be upfront and say that I need some alone time. In today’s society, I believe most people would understand.

  • Sleater-Kinney will be visiting Australia and New Zealand this May, with shows scheduled in Auckland on May 15th, Brisbane on May 17th, Melbourne on May 19th, Sydney on May 21st, and Fremantle on May 23rd.

Source: theguardian.com

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