I was reluctant to write a Quick Take about Kim Gordon because I have no background with her first two solo albums, or even her work with Sonic Youth. I know, I know, I need to work on that. I heard the name in the ‘90s but somehow I never connected with the music. But maybe it will be refreshing to evaluate PLAY ME without a historical context? We will see.
[Editor’s note: here’s a prime example of Sonic Youth-era Kim Gordon, for Dave or anyone else who needs or wants it. It’s never too late to discover Sonic Youth. No gatekeeping!]
Gordon’s approach on PLAY ME puts the joy of sound and noise front and center, and musicality comes second. The songs are simple, quick-hitting, but never not interesting. Many of them spring from a hip-hop beat, which to be honest did surprise me, despite having no real expectations coming in. I suppose that means I stereotyped Gordon as a white woman with a history in rock... another failure I need to work on. Then layers are added, and the meaning doesn’t come from what instruments they are, or the notes they’re playing, but how they add to the sound, and even to the way you feel the music - some of the bottom end is a sub-tonal rumble that you just feel the throughout your body.
