People can be quite cynical. 'The Kills are too cool.' There's been an on-and-off relationship with the music press that loves us and then hates us then loves us again. I don't think any kind of press is reliable.

The quote by Alison Mosshart, the lead singer of the rock band The Kills, reflects her frustration with the cynicism and inconsistency of the music press. Mosshart points out that the press often swings between periods of praise and criticism, which can be confusing and unreliable for both the band and their audience. She comments on how the press, in particular, has had an "on-and-off relationship" with The Kills, sometimes celebrating their success and other times tearing them down. This illustrates the unpredictable nature of how artists are portrayed in the media.

Mosshart’s statement also touches on the inherent subjectivity and unreliability of media coverage. By calling the press "unreliable," she implies that the opinions and narratives pushed by journalists are often biased or inconsistent, which can make it difficult for musicians to take their assessments seriously. This highlights the challenges musicians face when trying to navigate their public image, especially in an industry where opinions can shift rapidly based on trends, popularity, or even personal biases.

The origin of this quote comes from Mosshart's experiences in the music industry, where she and bandmate Jamie Hince have often found themselves subject to fluctuating public opinions. As a band known for their indie rock and minimalist sound, The Kills have garnered both praise for their unique style and criticism for being too "cool" or inaccessible. Mosshart’s frustration with this dynamic is rooted in her understanding that media attention can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on how it is used.

Ultimately, Mosshart’s quote serves as a reminder of the impermanence and inconsistency of external validation. She points out the challenges of being an artist when the opinions that shape your career are often unreliable and influenced by factors beyond your control. Her words encourage musicians and creatives to remain focused on their art and self-expression, rather than relying too heavily on the ever-changing opinions of the media.