About this album
Where they were
Released on October 22, 1996, 'Soundtracks for the Blind' marked a significant phase in Swans' evolution as it was their first album after a hiatus and the band's transition towards more experimental soundscapes. This album came following their acclaimed release 'The Great Annihilator' (1995) and showcased a departure from their earlier intensity into more ambient and immersive territories.
Why it matters
'Soundtracks for the Blind' is notable for its critical acclaim, often hailed as a pivotal work in the genre of experimental rock. The album's unconventional structure and sonic exploration influenced a generation of artists within avant-garde and post-rock scenes, affirming Swans' status as innovators in the music landscape.
Essential tracks
- "Helpless Child" — This track encapsulates the album's emotional core with its slow build-up and haunting vocals, reflecting the themes of vulnerability and despair.
- "I Was a Prisoner in Your Skull" — Its unsettling atmosphere combined with intense lyrical imagery exemplifies Swans' ability to blend noise with narrative depth, making it a standout piece on the album.
- "The Sound" — Serving as a culmination of the album’s themes, this track features an expansive sonic journey that captures the essence of isolation and introspection.
Release Date
October 22, 1996
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Red Velvet Corridor 3:04
- 2 I Was a Prisoner in Your Skull 6:39
- 3 Helpless Child 15:47
- 4 Live Through Me 2:31
- 5 Yum‐Yab Killers 5:07
- 6 The Beautiful Days 7:49
- 7 Volcano 5:19
- 8 Mellothumb 2:45
- 9 All Lined Up 4:48
- 10 Surrogate 2 1:51
- 11 How They Suffer 5:52
- 12 Animus 10:42
Disc 2
- 1 Red Velvet Wound 2:02
- 2 The Sound 13:11
- 3 Her Mouth Is Filled With Honey 3:18
- 4 Blood Section 2:39
- 5 Hypogirl 2:44
- 6 Minus Something 4:14
- 7 Empathy 6:45
- 8 I Love You This Much 7:23
- 9 YRP 7:46
- 10 Fan’s Lament 1:28
- 11 Secret Friends 3:08
- 12 The Final Sacrifice 10:27
- 13 YRP 2 2:09
- 14 Surrogate Drone 2:09
