Black Ships Ate the Sky cover

Black Ships Ate the Sky

Current 93

Album 2006

About this album

Sound: "A haunting blend of neofolk and experimental sounds that evoke ancient mythologies and existential dread."

Where they were

By the time Current 93 released 'Black Ships Ate the Sky' in 2006, they were well-established in the neofolk scene, following their earlier works like 'Thunder Perfect Mind' (1992). This album marked a significant phase in David Tibet's career as he explored darker themes and deeper philosophical inquiries, further solidifying his reputation as an avant-garde artist.

Why it matters

The album received critical acclaim for its unique sound and introspective lyrics, contributing to Current 93's influence on the neofolk genre. It also highlighted Tibet's distinctive approach to narrative and emotional expression, cementing his role as a pivotal figure in underground music circles.

Essential tracks

  • "Black Ships in the Sky" — This track encapsulates the album's thematic exploration of historical and mystical imagery, featuring a memorable melody and evocative lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners.
  • "Then Kill Cæsar" — With its dramatic narrative structure and haunting instrumentation, this track stands out as a compelling reflection on power and mortality, characteristic of Tibet's lyrical style.
  • "Idumæa" — Repeated throughout the album, this piece serves as both a thematic anchor and a haunting refrain that ties together various motifs explored in the other tracks.

Release Date

May 15, 2006

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Idumæa 3:22
  2. 2 Sunset (The Death of Thumbelina) 3:18
  3. 3 Black Ships in the Sky 3:38
  4. 4 Then Kill Cæsar 3:58
  5. 5 Idumæa 2:42
  6. 6 This Autistic Imperium Is Nihil Reich 4:03
  7. 7 The Dissolution of ‘The Boat Millions of Years’ 3:57
  8. 8 Idumæa 4:19
  9. 9 Bind Your Tortoise Mouth 2:30
  10. 10 Idumæa 2:02
  11. 11 Black Ships Seen Last Year South of Heaven 4:07
  12. 12 Ⲁⲃⲃⲁ Ⲁⲙⲙⲁ (Babylon Destroyer) 3:19
  13. 13 Idumæa 2:35
  14. 14 Black Ships Were Sinking / Idumæa 11:05
  15. 15 The Beautiful Dancing Dust 0:57
  16. 16 Idumæa 3:06
  17. 17 Ⲟⲩⲁⲏ Ⲟⲩⲁⲩ Ⲟⲩⲁⲩ (Black Ships in Their Harbour) 4:41
  18. 18 Idumæa 1:50
  19. 19 Black Ships Ate the Sky 4:20
  20. 20 Why Cæsar Is Burning, Part II 2:48
  21. 21 Idumæa 2:42