About this album
Sound:
"A chaotic blend of gothic rock and post-punk, where primal energy meets dissonant melodies."
Where they were
Released on May 10, 1982, 'Junkyard' was The Birthday Party's second studio album, following their debut 'Prayers on Fire.' At this point in their career, the band had begun to refine their sound, merging raw intensity with more experimental elements, solidifying their reputation in the post-punk scene.
Why it matters
'Junkyard' is significant for its influence on the gothic rock genre and has been credited with shaping the sound of many subsequent bands. It received critical acclaim upon release, and tracks like 'Release the Bats' became anthems of the underground music movement.
Essential tracks
- "Release the Bats" — This track epitomizes The Birthday Party's chaotic energy and confrontational style, illustrating their raw sound that would influence later gothic rock bands.
- "She's Hit" — 'She's Hit' stands out for its haunting atmosphere and compelling narrative, showcasing Nick Cave's lyrical prowess and vocal intensity.
- "Hamlet (Pow, Pow, Pow)" — With its frenetic pace and aggressive instrumentation, this song captures the band's signature blend of violence and poetry, making it a hallmark of their style.
- "Kewpie Doll" — This track highlights the band's ability to juxtapose dark themes with a melodic sensibility, featuring a haunting refrain that lingers long after listening.
Release Date
May 10, 1982
Artist Origin
Australia
Tracklist
- 1 Blast Off 2:18
- 2 She's Hit 6:05
- 3 Dead Joe 3:08
- 4 The Dim Locator 2:49
- 5 Hamlet (Pow, Pow, Pow) 5:33
- 6 Several Sins 2:56
- 7 Big-Jesus-Trash-Can 2:59
- 8 Kiss Me Black 2:48
- 9 6" Gold Blade 3:34
- 10 Kewpie Doll 3:32
- 11 Junkyard 5:49
- 12 Dead Joe (2nd version) 3:07
- 13 Release the Bats 2:31
