Le Tigre (album)

Le Tigre (album) is the self-titled debut album by the American post-punk band Le Tigre, formed by Kathleen Hanna of Bikini Kill and Julie Ruin fame, along with Johanna Fateman and Sadie Benning. The album was released in 1999 through Mr. Lady Records, a label co-founded by Kaia Wilson of The Butchies and Tina LaPalm. Le Tigre's music is often associated with the Riot grrrl movement, which also spawned bands like Hole, Sleater-Kinney, and Bratmobile. The band's sound is characterized by its blend of Punk rock, Electroclash, and Indie rock, drawing inspiration from artists like Debbie Harry of Blondie and Patti Smith.

Background

The formation of Le Tigre was a result of Kathleen Hanna's desire to create a new project after the dissolution of Bikini Kill, which had been a key band in the Riot grrrl movement, alongside Heavens to Betsy and Team Dresch. Johanna Fateman, a New York City-based artist and writer, was introduced to Kathleen Hanna through mutual friends, including Miranda July and Justin Bond. The two began collaborating on music, drawing inspiration from Post-punk bands like The Raincoats and The Slits, as well as Electronic music artists like Miss Kittin and The Hacker. They were later joined by Sadie Benning, a Milwaukee-based artist and musician, who had previously worked with Calvin Johnson of K Records.

Composition

The music on Le Tigre's self-titled album is characterized by its catchy, New Wave-inspired melodies and Feminist-themed lyrics, which address topics like Gender equality and Queer rights, echoing the sentiments of artists like Ani DiFranco and Indigo Girls. The album's sound is also influenced by Electronic music and Hip hop, with Sampling and Drum machines playing a prominent role in the production, similar to the work of Moby and DJ Shadow. The band's lyrics are often humorous and ironic, with songs like "Deceptacon" and "Hot Topic" name-checking Feminist icons like Valerie Solanas and Gertrude Stein, as well as Punk rock legends like Joey Ramone and Johnny Thunders.

Release and reception

Le Tigre was released in 1999 to positive reviews from critics, with many praising the band's energetic and catchy sound, which drew comparisons to The B-52's and The Tom Tom Club. The album was also a commercial success, thanks in part to the band's energetic live performances, which often featured Kathleen Hanna's charismatic stage presence and Johanna Fateman's witty banter, similar to the live shows of The Runaways and The Pretenders. The album received praise from publications like The New York Times, Rolling Stone, and Spin (magazine), with many noting the band's unique blend of Punk rock and Electronic music, which also influenced bands like Chicks on Speed and Peaches.

Track listing

The album features 12 tracks, including "Deceptacon", "Hot Topic", and "My My Metrocard", which have become some of the band's most popular songs, alongside other Le Tigre tracks like "Eau d'Bedroom Dancing" and "Let's Run", which showcase the band's ability to craft catchy, New Wave-inspired pop songs, similar to the work of Blondie and The Cars. The album's track listing is as follows: 1. "Deceptacon" 2. "Hot Topic" 3. "What's Yr Take on Cassavetes" 4. "The The Empty" 5. "Phanta" 6. "Eau d'Bedroom Dancing" 7. "Let's Run" 8. "My My Metrocard" 9. "Friendship Station" 10. "Slideshow at Free University" 11. "Dude, Yr Getting a Teeth" 12. "Les and Ray"

Personnel

The personnel involved in the creation of Le Tigre include Kathleen Hanna on vocals and Guitar, Johanna Fateman on Keyboards and vocals, and Sadie Benning on Bass guitar and vocals, with production assistance from Chris Stamey of The dB's and Tina Weymouth of Talking Heads. The album was recorded at Duppy Studios in New York City, with additional recording done at Rory Phillips' The Shop studio, and was mixed by Nicolas Vernhes at Rare Book Room studio, with mastering by Howie Weinberg at Masterdisk. The album's artwork was designed by Johanna Fateman and Sadie Benning, with photography by Catherine Opie and Laurie Simmons. Category:Le Tigre