About this album
Where they were
Released in early 1979, 'Live at the Witch Trials' was The Fall's debut album, capturing their early sound as they emerged from the UK punk scene. This album laid the groundwork for their unique blend of punk and art rock, showcasing frontman Mark E. Smith's distinctive vocal style and lyrical perspective during a formative period for the band.
Why it matters
'Live at the Witch Trials' is significant for its influential role in the post-punk movement, helping to define the genre's aesthetic with its experimental approach. It received positive critical acclaim upon release and has since been recognized for its impact on subsequent alternative rock bands, cementing The Fall's legacy within the UK's music landscape.
Essential tracks
- "Rebellious Jukebox" — This track encapsulates The Fall's confrontational spirit and innovative sound, blending catchy hooks with sharp social commentary.
- "Crap Rap 2 / Like to Blow" — A prime example of the band's punk ethos, this song showcases their ability to mix humor with critique, all while maintaining an infectious rhythm.
- "No Xmas for John Quays" — This track highlights Mark E. Smith's lyrical prowess, weaving a narrative that critiques contemporary culture against a driving punk backdrop.
Release Date
January 1, 1979
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Frightened 5:02
- 2 Crap Rap 2 / Like to Blow 2:04
- 3 Rebellious Jukebox 2:55
- 4 No Xmas for John Quays 4:38
- 5 Mother-Sister! 3:20
- 6 Industrial Estate 2:00
- 7 Underground Medecin 2:08
- 8 Two Steps Back 5:03
- 9 Live at the Witch Trials 0:51
- 10 Futures and Pasts 2:36
- 11 Music Scene 8:00
- 12 Bingo-Master’s Break-Out! 2:22
- 13 Psycho Mafia 2:14
- 14 Repetition 4:55
- 15 It’s the New Thing 3:27
- 16 Various Times 6:39
- 17 Dresden Dolls 3:37
- 18 Psycho Mafia 2:20
- 19 Industrial Estate 1:47
- 20 Stepping Out 2:45
- 21 Last Orders 2:21
Disc 2
- 1 Rebellious Jukebox (Peel session) 3:00
- 2 Mother-Sister! (Peel session) 3:07
- 3 Industrial Estate (Peel session) 1:45
- 4 Futures and Pasts (Peel session) 2:35
- 5 Put Away (Peel session) 3:34
- 6 Mess of My (Peel session) 3:13
- 7 No Xmas For John Quays (Peel session) 4:14
- 8 Like to Blow (Peel session) 1:47
- 9 Like to Blow (live) 2:05
- 10 Stepping Out (live) 3:09
- 11 Two Steps Back (live) 5:51
- 12 Mess of My (live) 3:24
- 13 It’s The New Thing (live) 3:48
- 14 Various Times (live) 4:59
- 15 Bingo-Master’s Break-Out! (live) 2:48
- 16 Frightened (live) 5:35
- 17 Industrial Estate (live) 1:53
- 18 Psycho Mafia (live) 3:01
- 19 Music Scene (live) 9:26
- 20 Mother-Sister! (live) 3:31
