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Katie Alice Greer, the former frontwoman of the acclaimed indie band Priests, is set to release her second solo album, Perfect Woman Sound Machine, Vol. 1, on April 3 via GAK Records. The announcement comes with the release of a compelling new single, “Unglued,” a track that delves into themes of societal pressure and the relentless pursuit of “more.” Greer’s solo work follows her critically lauded 2022 debut, Barbarism, and continues to showcase her distinctive blend of raw emotion and introspective lyricism.
“Unglued” is a sonic exploration of the anxieties surrounding modern existence, as Greer herself describes, a feeling that “this world teaches us that nothing is ever enough.” The song’s lyrics, delivered with a characteristic intensity, reflect a sense of despair fueled by what she identifies as “Western hegemony” and its influence on perpetual desire. Musically, the track builds from a foundation of driving guitar work into a swirling, almost chaotic soundscape, mirroring the internal turmoil it portrays. The song premiered alongside a visually striking music video, directed by Greer herself, which blends retro footage with contemporary imagery.
A Sonic Vision Inspired by Punk Icons
Greer has revealed that “Unglued” was born from a specific creative vision: imagining Kim Gordon, the iconic bassist and vocalist of Sonic Youth, fronting a proto-punk band from Cleveland, Ohio. This inspiration is evident in the song’s raw energy and angular instrumentation. “I don’t want to play the character I was in the band Priests all the time, but she’s part of me, like all the other characters I like to inhabit when songwriting,” Greer explained, according to a press release. “I wanted her to have a moment on this album, amidst others with more nuance.” This suggests a deliberate exploration of different facets of her artistic identity on Perfect Woman Sound Machine, Vol. 1.
The music video for “Unglued” further enhances the song’s thematic depth. It’s a collage of diverse visual elements – archival video clips, scenes of modern goths in a high school gymnasium, and footage of Greer herself dancing freely in a yellow dress. Greer has stated the visual approach was “lightly inspired by Gena Rowlands’ performance in the John Cassavetes film Opening Night,” a 1977 psychological drama known for its exploration of performance, identity, and emotional vulnerability. This connection to Cassavetes’ work adds another layer of artistic resonance to the project.
Perfect Woman Sound Machine, Vol. 1: A Tracklist of Introspection
Perfect Woman Sound Machine, Vol. 1 promises to be a multifaceted work, building on the foundation laid by Barbarism. The album’s tracklist reveals a range of sonic and lyrical explorations:
- 01 “Expo ’70”
- 02 “Unglued”
- 03 “West”
- 04 “Perfect Woman Sound Machine”
- 05 “Talk To Leslie”
- 06 “Nobody Knows How I Reach You (But I Do)”
- 07 “I’m Your Man”
- 08 “Come And Let Me Know”
Notably, the album includes a cover of Leonard Cohen’s classic song, “I’m Your Man.” This choice suggests a deliberate engagement with musical history and a willingness to reinterpret established works through Greer’s unique artistic lens. Prior to “Unglued,” Greer had already released “Expo ‘70” and “Talk To Leslie” as singles, offering a glimpse into the album’s overall sound and thematic concerns.
From Priests to Solo Exploration
Katie Alice Greer first gained prominence as the lead singer and songwriter for Priests, a Washington D.C.-based punk band known for their politically charged lyrics and energetic live performances. Formed in 2011, Priests released two studio albums, Bodies and Control (2014) and The Seduction of Kansas (2019), before announcing an indefinite hiatus in 2019. Pitchfork reported on the hiatus, noting the band’s decision came after a period of intense touring and creative exploration.
The Seduction of Kansas, the band’s final album, received widespread critical acclaim for its sharp social commentary and dynamic musical arrangements. A 2019 interview with Priests, published by Pitchfork, delved into the band’s perspective on being an American rock band in a politically charged era. The interview offered insights into the band’s creative process and their commitment to addressing social and political issues through their music.
Greer’s transition to a solo career with Barbarism in 2022 marked a new chapter in her artistic journey. The album was praised for its experimental sound and unflinching lyrical honesty. It established Greer as a compelling solo artist capable of pushing boundaries and exploring complex emotional terrain. Her work continues to resonate with audiences seeking music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
The Influence of Cleveland Proto-Punk
The specific reference to a “Cleveland proto-punk band” in Greer’s description of “Unglued” is noteworthy. Cleveland, Ohio, has a rich history of punk and new wave music, particularly in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Bands like Pere Ubu and The Dead Boys emerged from the city’s vibrant underground music scene, pioneering a raw and experimental sound that influenced countless artists. This connection to Cleveland’s musical heritage adds another layer of context to Greer’s creative vision, suggesting a deliberate engagement with the roots of punk rock.
GAK Records, the label releasing Perfect Woman Sound Machine, Vol. 1, is also gaining recognition for its commitment to supporting innovative and challenging artists. The label’s roster includes a diverse range of musicians pushing the boundaries of contemporary music. According to wrszw.net, GAK Records is also releasing an album by Mitski, further solidifying its position as a key player in the independent music scene.
Perfect Woman Sound Machine, Vol. 1 is available for pre-order now and is scheduled for release on April 3. Fans can expect a deeply personal and sonically adventurous album that continues to solidify Katie Alice Greer’s position as a vital voice in contemporary music. The album promises to be a compelling exploration of identity, societal pressures, and the search for meaning in a complex world.
The next confirmed date for fans to anticipate is April 3, the official release date of Perfect Woman Sound Machine, Vol. 1. Be sure to follow Katie Alice Greer on social media for updates and tour announcements. What are your initial thoughts on “Unglued”? Share your reactions in the comments below and spread the word about this exciting new release!
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