About this album
Where they were
By the time 'The High End of Low' was released in 2009, Marilyn Manson was navigating a tumultuous phase following the commercial decline of his earlier work. This album, his seventh studio release, marked a return to a heavier sound after the more melodic 'Eat Me, Drink Me' (2007), reflecting personal struggles and artistic reinvention during an era of public scrutiny.
Why it matters
This album is significant for its raw exploration of darkness and controversy, particularly with tracks like 'Pretty as a Swastika,' which drew criticism for its provocative themes. It debuted at number 4 on the Billboard 200, reaffirming Manson's staying power in the music industry despite fluctuating commercial success.
Essential tracks
- "Pretty as a Swastika" — This track encapsulates Manson's audacious approach to societal issues, blending catchy hooks with unsettling imagery that challenges norms.
- "Running to the Edge of the World" — The haunting lyrics and expansive soundscapes reflect introspection and vulnerability, offering a stark contrast to the album's more aggressive tracks.
- "I Want to Kill You Like They Do in the Movies" — This nearly ten-minute epic stands out for its dramatic narrative structure and theatrical delivery, showcasing Manson's storytelling prowess.
- "We're From America" — A scathing commentary on American culture, this track uses sharp lyrics and infectious rhythms to provoke thought about national identity.
Release Date
January 1, 2009
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Devour 3:46
- 2 Pretty as a Swastika 2:45
- 3 Leave a Scar 3:55
- 4 Four Rusted Horses 5:00
- 5 Arma‐goddamn‐motherfuckin‐geddon 3:39
- 6 Blank and White 4:27
- 7 Running to the Edge of the World 6:26
- 8 I Want to Kill You Like They Do in the Movies 9:02
- 9 WOW 4:55
- 10 Wight Spider 5:33
- 11 Unkillable Monster 3:44
- 12 We’re From America 5:04
- 13 I Have to Look Up Just to See Hell 4:12
- 14 Into the Fire 5:15
- 15 15 4:21
- 16 Arma‐goddamn‐motherfuckin‐geddon (Teddy Bears remix) 3:30
