Carrie Brownstein is a fascinating character. A ground- breaking guitarist with U.S. Riot Grrrl pioneers Sleater Kinney, she has subsequently gone on to forge an entirely different career, co-creating the successful cult TV series, Portlandia.
Hunger Makes Me A Modern Girl tells only half the story. Brownstein is not afraid to divulge mistakes, weaknesses and various character flaws; in fact self-deprecation is her most powerful tool. She is impressively open about her dysfunctional childhood, troubled teens and personal issues. Her relationship with fellow Sleater Kinney member Corin Tucker is dealt with in admirably honest terms.
More than anything, however, this the story of music fandom and how it enables millions to forge an identity, connects us to others and provides an invaluable port, amid the storm of life. Fans of Portlandia may be disappointed: the show merely gets a brief mention in the epilogue. But that’s for the follow-up...