Exploring the Depths of Ribbon Skirt’s “Bite Down”
Musical Identity and Storytelling
“I want it now, never, always,” Tashiina Buswa declares in “Look What You Did,” the standout track from Ribbon Skirt’s debut album, Bite Down. This line encapsulates Buswa’s intricate storytelling approach, where past, present, and future intertwine. In her narratives, memories hover in a delicate balance, perpetually at risk of distortion, overshadowed by heavy percussion, or warped through the lens of Auto-Tune into surreal reflections. This complexity demands attentive listening.
From Love Language to Ribbon Skirt
Transitioning from their former identity as Love Language, the Montreal-based duo of Tashiina Buswa and multi-instrumentalist Billy Riley has embraced the name Ribbon Skirt. This name pays homage to a traditional Native American and First Nations garment that signifies resilience and femininity, aligning with Buswa’s Anishinaabe roots. Bite Down serves multiple purposes: it’s a reexamination of their musical journey, a personal narrative steeped in inherited colonial trauma, and a fresh perspective on contemporary indie rock’s often-rehashed influences, drawing on elements of shoegaze, grunge, and a post-punk aesthetic that leans heavily into its darker themes.
A Tactile Soundscape
Co-produced by Scott “Monty” Munro of Preoccupations and Marlaena Moore, with mixing by Deerhoof’s Greg Saunier, Bite Down is imbued with a raw, tactile quality reminiscent of classic albums like Live Through This. The album’s atmospheric texture is palpable, enhancing the emotional heft of its most intense moments, where the interplay of wood and wire resonates distinctly.
Comparative Influences
Musically, Ribbon Skirt draws parallels to the more rugged works of Michelle Zauner and the more melodic outputs of Mannequin Pussy. However, it is the modern gothic storytelling and versatile vocals of Buswa that evoke comparisons to Karly Hartzman of Wednesday. Buswa’s willingness to explore themes of morbidity, irreverence, and primal expression—where some feelings defy verbal articulation—adds a compelling layer to their artistry.
Confronting Colonial Narratives
In the poignant track “Off-Rez,” Buswa challenges the sanitized, tokenizing portrayals of Indigenous identity. Her vocal delivery blends ‘90s slacker nonchalance with a hint of Valley Girl inflection as she critiques societal expectations: “They want 2000s Buffy Marie…They want the pipe and the drum.” This song confronts the evolving tactics of colonialism and the entrenched anti-Indigenous racism that persists in contemporary life.
Struggles of Identity and Freedom
As an Anishinaabe individual residing in a major Canadian city, Buswa navigates the complexities of cultural identity. In “Off-Rez,” she expresses a desire to reclaim and preserve her heritage, singing, “I wanna preserve every part that makes me / Not only know but really feel that I’m free.” Her lyrics resonate with a sense of urgency, highlighting the interplay between personal and collective histories while addressing the ongoing impacts of colonialism.
Conclusion
Bite Down by Ribbon Skirt is not just a debut album; it is a powerful exploration of identity, trauma, and resilience. Through Buswa’s evocative storytelling and the duo’s innovative sound, the album captures the tumultuous relationship between past and present, inviting listeners to engage with its layered narratives. As they redefine their musical identity, Ribbon Skirt stands poised to make a significant impact on the indie rock scene.
FAQs
Who are Ribbon Skirt?
Ribbon Skirt is a Montreal-based musical duo consisting of singer and guitarist Tashiina Buswa and multi-instrumentalist Billy Riley. They previously performed under the name Love Language.
What does the name “Ribbon Skirt” signify?
The name “Ribbon Skirt” references a traditional Native American and First Nations garment, symbolizing resilience and femininity, which reflects Buswa’s Anishinaabe heritage.
What themes are explored in their album Bite Down?
Bite Down addresses themes of inherited colonial trauma, cultural identity, and the complexities of modern Indigeneity, blending personal narratives with broader societal critiques.
How does the sound of Bite Down compare to other artists?
The album draws influences from various genres, including shoegaze and grunge, and is often compared to the works of Michelle Zauner and Karly Hartzman, with a raw and tactile sound reminiscent of classic albums.
What is the significance of the track “Off-Rez”?
“Off-Rez” critiques the tokenizing narratives surrounding Indigeneity and highlights the ongoing effects of colonialism while expressing Buswa’s struggle to preserve her cultural identity in a contemporary context.
