About this album
Where they were
Released in January 1988, 'A Bell Is a Cup' marked Wire's fifth studio album and their return after a five-year hiatus. The band was exploring new sonic territories after the critical success of their earlier works like 'Chairs Missing' and '154', showcasing a mature evolution in both their sound and lyrical complexity.
Why it matters
This album is notable for its experimental approach within the art punk genre, receiving positive reviews from critics and solidifying Wire's influence on subsequent post-punk artists. It also featured the track 'Silk Skin Paws', which became a staple in their live performances and has been covered by various artists over the years.
Essential tracks
- "Silk Skin Paws" — With its haunting melodies and intricate instrumentation, this track encapsulates the album's blend of ethereal and avant-garde elements, making it a standout piece.
- "The Finest Drops" — This track showcases Wire’s mastery of juxtaposing serene vocals with unsettling lyrical themes, illustrating their continued innovation in songwriting.
- "Kidney Bingos" — Its rhythmic complexity and vivid imagery reflect the band's unique ability to create tension while maintaining melodic coherence, representing a high point of their artistic exploration.
- "Pieta" — This longer piece allows for an expansive exploration of sound, demonstrating Wire's capability to meld narrative depth with atmospheric soundscapes.
Release Date
January 1, 1988
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 Silk Skin Paws 4:53
- 2 The Finest Drops 5:01
- 3 The Queen of Ur and the King of Um 4:03
- 4 Free Falling Divisions 3:39
- 5 It’s a Boy 4:26
- 6 Boiling Boy 6:22
- 7 Kidney Bingos 4:12
- 8 Come Back in Two Halves 2:43
- 9 Follow the Locust 4:22
- 10 A Public Place 4:30
- 11 The Queen of Ur and the King of Um (alternative version) 4:02
- 12 Pieta 7:29
- 13 Over Theirs (live) 6:36
- 14 Drill (live) 8:01
