Document and Eyewitness is an album by Wire, released in 1981. A disorienting blend of art punk chaos and experimental soundscapes that captures the essence of early '80s avant-garde music. 'Document and Eyewitness' is notable for its raw documentation of live performances, highlighting the band's improvisational edge. It has influenced a myriad of post-punk and experimental artists, solidifying Wire's reputation as pioneers in the genre, and it received attention from critics for its boundary-pushing approach to live recording. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Document and Eyewitness sound like?
A disorienting blend of art punk chaos and experimental soundscapes that captures the essence of early '80s avant-garde music. Rooted in art punk.
What makes Document and Eyewitness by Wire notable?
'Document and Eyewitness' is notable for its raw documentation of live performances, highlighting the band's improvisational edge. It has influenced a myriad of post-punk and experimental artists, solidifying Wire's reputation as pioneers in the genre, and it received attention from critics for its boundary-pushing approach to live recording. Released in 1981, 'Document and Eyewitness' marks Wire's first live album, following their influential '154' (1979). This period for Wire is characterized by their transition from strict punk roots to more experimental and avant-garde sound explorations, showcasing their willingness to defy genre conventions.
How many songs are on Document and Eyewitness?
Document and Eyewitness has 22 tracks, running approximately 76 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Go Ahead Standout 4:01
- 2 Ally in Exile 4:20
- 3 Relationship 1:22
- 4 Underwater Experiences 2:47
- 5 Witness to the Fact 2:46
- 6 2 People in a Room 1:58
- 7 Our Swimmer 3:01
- 8 Heartbeat Standout 3:12
- 9 5/10 6:00
- 10 12XU (Fragment) Standout 1:47
- 11 Underwater Experiences 2:38
- 12 Everythings Going to Be Nice 1:04
- 13 Piano Tuner (Keep Strumming Those Guitars) 5:19
- 14 We Meet Under Tables 3:05
- 15 Zegk Hoqp 5:28
- 16 Eastern Standard 3:03
- 17 Instrumental (Thrown Bottle) 2:12
- 18 Eels Sang Lino 3:04
- 19 Revealing Trade Secrets 2:33
- 20 And Then..... / Coda 9:00
- 21 Our Swimmer 3:34
- 22 Midnight Bahnhof Cafe 4:33
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