About this album

Sound: "A haunting exploration of grief and resilience, merging Nick Cave's poetic lyrics with Warren Ellis' atmospheric soundscapes."

Where they were

Released on February 25, 2021, 'Carnage' represents a collaborative evolution for Nick Cave and Warren Ellis, following their critically acclaimed work on 'Ghosteen' (2019). This album marks a continued artistic partnership that dives deeper into themes of loss and introspection while showcasing a more improvisational approach in their songwriting process.

Why it matters

'Carnage' received widespread acclaim from critics and debuted at number one on the ARIA Albums Chart. Its raw emotional depth resonated during a global pandemic, positioning it as a significant cultural reflection of isolation and human connection.

Essential tracks

  • "Hand of God" — The opening track sets an intense tone, blending powerful vocals with striking imagery, encapsulating the album's overarching themes of faith and despair.
  • "Old Time" — This track showcases Cave's storytelling prowess, weaving nostalgia with melancholy, creating a poignant reflection on the passage of time.
  • "White Elephant" — 'White Elephant' stands out with its dramatic instrumentation and lyrical confrontation of existential dread, highlighting the duo's ability to evoke emotion through sound.
  • "Albuquerque" — This song captures a sense of longing and dislocation, using vivid imagery to explore personal themes against a backdrop of sparse yet compelling instrumentation.

Release Date

February 25, 2021

Artist Origin

Australia

Tracklist

  1. 1 Hand of God 5:17
  2. 2 Old Time 5:16
  3. 3 Carnage 4:47
  4. 4 White Elephant 6:08
  5. 5 Albuquerque 3:56
  6. 6 Lavender Fields 4:33
  7. 7 Shattered Ground 5:34
  8. 8 Balcony Man 4:32