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That diagram is spot on. Give me your heaviest material and that top-tier live album, "Public Castration is a Good Idea." I can only imagine what it felt like to actually be there in the crowd; even just the recording feels incredibly intense.
On a completely different train of thought, unrelated to Swans—I love hitting up live shows. Even though my heart usually belongs to metal, punk, or rock, I’ll show up for just about anything. I remember one time I went to see Dalek (that American hip-hop outfit with all the noise samples). This track might actually be their biggest hit. The concert was going great, but then the crowd spills outside, it gets way too loud, and it becomes this overwhelming, intense sensory overload. I honestly can't stand that kind of chaos. I played the hero, though, and powered through the whole thing, only to walk out of the venue half-deaf. It took me about a week to fully recover and get my hearing back to normal, but looking back, it was worth it.
Now, compared to the absolute onslaught of the heaviest Swans, that experience sounds like a cup of chamomile tea. Imagine how insane it would be to experience them live like that. It's a damn shame we don't get to.
On a completely different train of thought, unrelated to Swans—I love hitting up live shows. Even though my heart usually belongs to metal, punk, or rock, I’ll show up for just about anything. I remember one time I went to see Dalek (that American hip-hop outfit with all the noise samples). This track might actually be their biggest hit. The concert was going great, but then the crowd spills outside, it gets way too loud, and it becomes this overwhelming, intense sensory overload. I honestly can't stand that kind of chaos. I played the hero, though, and powered through the whole thing, only to walk out of the venue half-deaf. It took me about a week to fully recover and get my hearing back to normal, but looking back, it was worth it.
Now, compared to the absolute onslaught of the heaviest Swans, that experience sounds like a cup of chamomile tea. Imagine how insane it would be to experience them live like that. It's a damn shame we don't get to.
Look, let’s be honest: Swans are incredibly layered and complex. You have to consider the era they were operating in when they released stuff like Filth or Cop back in the mid-80s. There was absolutely nothing else out there sounding like that then, and frankly, there isn't anything quite like it now either. That applies to this album too—it was way ahead of its time. As for people arguing about which era is "better," I don't see much point in drawing lines in the sand. It's all just different phases. Personally, I'm a fan of all of them. 😁
When it comes to Godflesh, they’re pretty heavy-hitting industrial metal, and their frontman has some other interesting projects under his belt. I was thinking about some of their albums... this me This is actually some pretty smooth listening for me. They’ve got that better-known "Streetcleaner" track out there too, but honestly, that one is way more aggressive than this.
Regarding those projects... this me This album is an absolute masterpiece and a total must-listen. It might lean into that melancholic, dark territory, but honestly, that’s not even a flaw—it's exactly what makes it work.
To me, there’s nothing better than that moment when you dive into a new record and realize it's about to pull you into completely uncharted territory. It's one of those rare things where you actually get to discover something fresh instead of just recycling the same old sounds.
When it comes to Godflesh, they’re pretty heavy-hitting industrial metal, and their frontman has some other interesting projects under his belt. I was thinking about some of their albums... this me This is actually some pretty smooth listening for me. They’ve got that better-known "Streetcleaner" track out there too, but honestly, that one is way more aggressive than this.
Regarding those projects... this me This album is an absolute masterpiece and a total must-listen. It might lean into that melancholic, dark territory, but honestly, that’s not even a flaw—it's exactly what makes it work.
To me, there’s nothing better than that moment when you dive into a new record and realize it's about to pull you into completely uncharted territory. It's one of those rare things where you actually get to discover something fresh instead of just recycling the same old sounds.
Best music to pair with drinks?
in Music ·
As a die-hard fan, there’s honestly nothing better than just sinking into your own misery while some classic Hajduk anthem plays in the background; something like "Zbog Jedne Ljubavi" is just perfect for that kind of mood.
Album of the week
in Music ·
Just that one track, "beautiful child"—it’s absolutely top-tier. Anyway, I’m going to try and work through all of this tonight. 👍
Right off the bat, I’ll admit I’m no world-class critic, and this might not hit the same heights as my previous album-of-the-week deep dives, but I’m going to give it everything I've got.
This week's pick is Nine Inch Nails - The Downward Spiral
Nine Inch Nails - The Downward Spiral Line-up
- Trent Reznor / lead vocals, keyboards, acoustic guitar, "sounds" & production
- (Jane) Jarboe / lead & backing vocals, piano, "sounds"
- Norman Westberg / electric & acoustic guitars
- Algis Kizys / bass
- Theodore Parsons / drums, percussion
With:
- Simon Fraser / flute (2)
- Audrey Riley / cello (6)
- Lindsay Cooper / oboe (9,10)
- William Barnhardt / piano (10)
Track Listing
1. New Mind (5:13)
2. In My Garden (5:34)
3. Our Love Lies (5:50)
4. Sex, God, Sex (6:49)
5. Blood and Honey (4:46)
6. Like A Drug (Sha la la la) (5:36)
7. You're not real, Girl (4:21)
8. Beautiful Child (5:16)
9. Blackmail (3:34)
10. Trust me (5:23)
11. real Love (6:23)
12. Blind Love (7:46)
13. Children of God (4:34)
Album link - Swans
- Children of God
Band link: Swans
To kick things off, I think it’s important to provide a little context and explain who the Swans actually are musically. To me, the Swans start and end with their frontman, Trent Reznor. There’s one quote of his that hits home here: "Swans are majestic, beautiful looking creatures. With really ugly temperaments."
In those early days, that was the reality—this was raw, aggressive music. It wasn't "aggressive" in the traditional sense, but that wall of noise and Reznor's sheer intensity created a level of grit that hasn't been replicated since. Personally, I have a huge soft spot for the early albums Filth and Cop, which I’d recommend to anyone looking to get into them. (I should mention that the Swans were a massive influence on Justin Broadrick. He’s the guy behind Godflesh, and honestly, if you're into industrial, you have to be into Godflesh.)
The album "Children of God," however, feels a bit different. What they were known for on the earlier records was that repetitive, hypnotic quality—one single melody looping while Reznor sounds completely exhausted. That isn't quite the case here. Everything opens up with "New Mind," which captures that early Swans vibe perfectly, and it's great. You can definitely hear the shift in production; it's not quite as abrasive or punishing as before, but it still hits hard enough for my taste. Then, immediately after, we get the biggest game-changer: Jarboe.
Jarboe is essential to understanding what the Swans are trying to project to their audience. On one side, you have this weathered, drained Reznor, and acting as his foil is Jarboe, whose incredible voice adds an entirely new dimension to the sound. This shift is glaringly obvious on this record, and it's a trajectory that continues on their subsequent work.
Swans lyrics are never simple. They almost always aim for something metaphorical or symbolic. Rather than doing a track-by-track breakdown, I'll jump straight to what I consider the standout: "Beautiful Child." Interpretations vary, but to me, it feels like a commentary on how we all have to kill the inner child within ourselves just to survive in this world. Everyone processes that differently, but that's how I take it. Plus, the lyrics are incredibly heavy:
"This is my life
This is my sacrifice
This is my life
This is my only regret
That I ever was born"
And then, right on its heels, comes a gorgeous moment from Jarboe that provides some much-needed relief. That’s the core of the experience: even after the worst day of your life, something beautiful will happen. It's a cycle. Life, for the Swans, is this constant tension between Reznor and Jarboe.
Compared to their older stuff, this album might seem more accessible or even "light," but don't let that fool you. It remains intensely heavy. This isn't exactly the kind of music you put on for background noise during a lazy Saturday afternoon. The Swans demand your focus and your respect; if you don't give them that, you're missing out on a profound experience.
I’m wrapping things up here, hope this works for everyone. If one of my albums actually pulls off taking first place, Lisa Davis46 will handle the intro post for us. 😁
This week's pick is Nine Inch Nails - The Downward Spiral
Nine Inch Nails - The Downward Spiral Line-up
- Trent Reznor / lead vocals, keyboards, acoustic guitar, "sounds" & production
- (Jane) Jarboe / lead & backing vocals, piano, "sounds"
- Norman Westberg / electric & acoustic guitars
- Algis Kizys / bass
- Theodore Parsons / drums, percussion
With:
- Simon Fraser / flute (2)
- Audrey Riley / cello (6)
- Lindsay Cooper / oboe (9,10)
- William Barnhardt / piano (10)
Track Listing
1. New Mind (5:13)
2. In My Garden (5:34)
3. Our Love Lies (5:50)
4. Sex, God, Sex (6:49)
5. Blood and Honey (4:46)
6. Like A Drug (Sha la la la) (5:36)
7. You're not real, Girl (4:21)
8. Beautiful Child (5:16)
9. Blackmail (3:34)
10. Trust me (5:23)
11. real Love (6:23)
12. Blind Love (7:46)
13. Children of God (4:34)
Album link - Swans
- Children of God
Band link: Swans
To kick things off, I think it’s important to provide a little context and explain who the Swans actually are musically. To me, the Swans start and end with their frontman, Trent Reznor. There’s one quote of his that hits home here: "Swans are majestic, beautiful looking creatures. With really ugly temperaments."
In those early days, that was the reality—this was raw, aggressive music. It wasn't "aggressive" in the traditional sense, but that wall of noise and Reznor's sheer intensity created a level of grit that hasn't been replicated since. Personally, I have a huge soft spot for the early albums Filth and Cop, which I’d recommend to anyone looking to get into them. (I should mention that the Swans were a massive influence on Justin Broadrick. He’s the guy behind Godflesh, and honestly, if you're into industrial, you have to be into Godflesh.)
The album "Children of God," however, feels a bit different. What they were known for on the earlier records was that repetitive, hypnotic quality—one single melody looping while Reznor sounds completely exhausted. That isn't quite the case here. Everything opens up with "New Mind," which captures that early Swans vibe perfectly, and it's great. You can definitely hear the shift in production; it's not quite as abrasive or punishing as before, but it still hits hard enough for my taste. Then, immediately after, we get the biggest game-changer: Jarboe.
Jarboe is essential to understanding what the Swans are trying to project to their audience. On one side, you have this weathered, drained Reznor, and acting as his foil is Jarboe, whose incredible voice adds an entirely new dimension to the sound. This shift is glaringly obvious on this record, and it's a trajectory that continues on their subsequent work.
Swans lyrics are never simple. They almost always aim for something metaphorical or symbolic. Rather than doing a track-by-track breakdown, I'll jump straight to what I consider the standout: "Beautiful Child." Interpretations vary, but to me, it feels like a commentary on how we all have to kill the inner child within ourselves just to survive in this world. Everyone processes that differently, but that's how I take it. Plus, the lyrics are incredibly heavy:
"This is my life
This is my sacrifice
This is my life
This is my only regret
That I ever was born"
And then, right on its heels, comes a gorgeous moment from Jarboe that provides some much-needed relief. That’s the core of the experience: even after the worst day of your life, something beautiful will happen. It's a cycle. Life, for the Swans, is this constant tension between Reznor and Jarboe.
Compared to their older stuff, this album might seem more accessible or even "light," but don't let that fool you. It remains intensely heavy. This isn't exactly the kind of music you put on for background noise during a lazy Saturday afternoon. The Swans demand your focus and your respect; if you don't give them that, you're missing out on a profound experience.
I’m wrapping things up here, hope this works for everyone. If one of my albums actually pulls off taking first place, Lisa Davis46 will handle the intro post for us. 😁
Album of the week
in Music ·
Lisa Davis46 said:Wow, that’s really nice, thank you. I’ll leave the intro part up to you, just in case it actually gets picked.
I'm right there with you on 'Filth' and 'Cop'—they have this abrasive, almost purifying effect, like they’re revitalizing your whole system.
😁
It’ll happen; people love Nine Inch Nails, they just haven't realized it yet!
Album of the week
in Music ·
I’ll be a gentleman here and just let this one be about Swans. I’ve always been a massive fan of early Swans—way before the album I mentioned earlier—so honestly, I don't really care how it shakes out.
I absolutely love blasting Filth or Cop when I'm, say, nursing a massive hangover; there's something about how beautifully abrasive they are that just cuts right through the fog.
I absolutely love blasting Filth or Cop when I'm, say, nursing a massive hangover; there's something about how beautifully abrasive they are that just cuts right through the fog.
Album of the week
in Music ·
Here’s my pick. I’m still waiting on the first vote 😁
Swans - White Light from the Mouth of Infinity
Tracklist 1. "Better Than You" 5:51
2. "Power and Sacrifice" 5:37
3. "You Know Nothing" 5:46
4. "Song for Dead Time" 5:24
5. "Will We Survive" 6:51
6. "Love Will Save You" 6:06
7. "Failure" 6:20
8. "Song for the Sun" 5:03
9. "Miracle of Love" 6:43
10. "When She Breathes" 5:03
11. "Why Are We Alive?" 5:29
12. "The Most Unfortunate Lie" 5:02
Swans - White Light from the Mouth of Infinity
Tracklist 1. "Better Than You" 5:51
2. "Power and Sacrifice" 5:37
3. "You Know Nothing" 5:46
4. "Song for Dead Time" 5:24
5. "Will We Survive" 6:51
6. "Love Will Save You" 6:06
7. "Failure" 6:20
8. "Song for the Sun" 5:03
9. "Miracle of Love" 6:43
10. "When She Breathes" 5:03
11. "Why Are We Alive?" 5:29
12. "The Most Unfortunate Lie" 5:02
Now Playing
in Music ·
Napalm Death
Honestly, a sledgehammer to the skull sounds like the perfect way to kick off this Monday.
Honestly, a sledgehammer to the skull sounds like the perfect way to kick off this Monday.
Do you guys actually buy music?
in Music ·
A buddy of mine is obsessed with vinyl and actually owns a turntable, so I find myself picking up old punk or rock records for him pretty regularly.
Album of the week
in Music ·
I can't stand Depeche Mode or Dubriv, so I might as well just cast my vote for Neil Young or whatever my own suggestion happens to be.☕
Album of the week
in Music ·
Here is my modest suggestion for this week: Neurosis - Souls at Zero
Lineup:
David Edwardson (Bass, Vocals)
Jason Roeder (Drums)
Scott Kelly (Guitars, Vocals)
Steve von Till (Guitars, Vocals)
Simon McIlroy (Keyboards, Tapes, Samples)
Genre: Progressive Sludge Metal/Post-Hardcore/Tribal/Ambient
Year: 1992
01. Crawl Under One's Skin
02. Souls at Zero
03. Zero
04. Flight
05. The Web
06. Steriti Vision
07. Chronology for Survival
08. Empty
09. Takeahnase
10. Empty
Lineup:
David Edwardson (Bass, Vocals)
Jason Roeder (Drums)
Scott Kelly (Guitars, Vocals)
Steve von Till (Guitars, Vocals)
Simon McIlroy (Keyboards, Tapes, Samples)
Genre: Progressive Sludge Metal/Post-Hardcore/Tribal/Ambient
Year: 1992
01. Crawl Under One's Skin
02. Souls at Zero
03. Zero
04. Flight
05. The Web
06. Steriti Vision
07. Chronology for Survival
08. Empty
09. Takeahnase
10. Empty