Sleater-Kinney have hired a new touring drummer, Angie Boylan to perform on the road for the remainder of their 2019 dates. Former drummer Janet Weiss left the band in July to pursue a “new direction.” According to Pitchfork, Angie Boylan—a member of Aye Nako and Freezing Cold—will support the band on their 2019 trek. Weiss’ departure was publicized less than one month before the all-female rock band dropped their latest album The Center Won’t Hold, produced by alt-rock guitar virtuoso Annie Clark, also known as St.Vincent.

The announcement of the new drummer was released through Sleater-Kinney’s official Instagram account. The statement said, “We had a blast at @hopscotchfest in #raleigh, playing to a lovely and effusive crowd. Felt great to finally perform the new songs along with the older ones. We’re joined on stage by @harkathon @hellozuzuhelloand @angie_boylan.”

The band’s current lineup features Corin Tucker (vocals and guitar) and Carrie Brownstein (guitar and vocals). As for the split of the band, Sleater-Kinney expressed their gratefulness for Weiss’ contribution all these years, “We thank her for joining us on this journey many years ago; we will always cherish our friendship and our time together.” Brownstein responded to Weiss’ departure on Instagram, “She’s left us with a job to do, a job we also expected and wanted her to be a part of. Her playing on this record is amazing and she’s raved about this album to us and to Annie. But we have to keep looking to the future.”

It’s a pity to watch one of the most important punk bands of the 1990s and 2000s change lineups so suddenly, but also there is rejoice for fans to see both sides wishing each other the best. While the band is headed in a new direction, Janet Weiss is as well. Weiss had announced fall 2019 tour dates with Quasi, which coincided with Sleater-Kinney’s Tour. The drummer later had to cancel the Quasi Tour after breaking her leg and collarbone in a car accident. We wish Weiss a full recovery and a return to the stage soon!

Photo Credit: Owen Ela