About this album
Where they were
My Father Will Guide Me up a Rope to the Sky marks Swans' return after a 14-year hiatus, following their breakup in 1997. This album is considered a pivotal moment in their career, showcasing a blend of their earlier brutal sound with newfound melodic elements. It set the stage for their subsequent works and redefined their artistic direction.
Why it matters
The album received widespread critical acclaim upon release, with significant praise from outlets like Pitchfork and The Quietus. Its influence is noted in the resurgence of interest in experimental rock and the avant-garde scene. Additionally, it debuted at number 55 on the Billboard 200 chart, indicating strong commercial performance for an avant-garde project.
Essential tracks
- "You Fucking People Make Me Sick" — This track exemplifies the band's confrontational style, blending abrasive noise with haunting vocals that challenge societal norms. Its intensity encapsulates the album's overarching themes of despair and catharsis.
- "Jim" — With its slow-building tension and poignant lyrics, 'Jim' serves as a reflection on mortality and loss, showcasing Swans' ability to evoke deep emotional resonance through minimalistic yet powerful instrumentation.
- "Eden Prison" — 'Eden Prison' merges atmospheric soundscapes with an almost hypnotic rhythm, creating an immersive experience that captures the listener's attention and illustrates the album's experimental nature.
Release Date
September 23, 2010
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 No Words / No Thoughts 9:24
- 2 Reeling the Liars In 2:20
- 3 Jim 6:46
- 4 My Birth 3:52
- 5 You Fucking People Make Me Sick 5:08
- 6 Inside Madeline 6:37
- 7 Eden Prison 6:03
- 8 Little Mouth 4:12
