The Firstborn Is Dead cover

The Firstborn Is Dead

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds · 1985

52 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock · post-punk · experimental rock

Dark, haunting melodies intertwine with vivid storytelling and a raw emotional intensity throughout the album.

Why listen to this

Best for
dark narratives with haunting melodies wave-like pacing with emotional peaks vivid storytelling through raw intensity
Context
Released on June 3, 1985, 'The Firstborn Is Dead' was Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds' second studio album, following their debut 'From Her to Eternity.' At this stage, the band was beginning to carve out their unique sound within the post-punk scene, showcasing Cave's lyrical prowess and deepening musical experimentation.
If you like
alternative rock, post-punk, experimental rock
What next
Your Funeral... My Trial — Continues the dark storytelling and emotional depth with a haunting atmosphere.

The Firstborn Is Dead is an album by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, released in 1985. Dark, haunting melodies intertwine with vivid storytelling and a raw emotional intensity throughout the album. 'The Firstborn Is Dead' is notable for its critical reception, often regarded as a significant work in the gothic rock genre. It further established Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds as influential artists, paving the way for future acts in alternative rock and earning accolades in various music circles. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Firstborn Is Dead sound like?

Dark, haunting melodies intertwine with vivid storytelling and a raw emotional intensity throughout the album. Rooted in alternative rock and post-punk. Start with "Tupelo".

Is The Firstborn Is Dead a good place to start with Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds?

Yes, The Firstborn Is Dead is recommended as a starting point for new Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds listeners. Dark, haunting melodies intertwine with vivid storytelling and a raw emotional intensity throughout the album. Released on June 3, 1985, 'The Firstborn Is Dead' was Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds' second studio album, following their debut 'From Her to Eternity.' At this stage, the band was beginning to carve out their unique sound within the post-punk scene, showcasing Cave's lyrical prowess and deepening musical experimentation.

Who is The Firstborn Is Dead for?

The Firstborn Is Dead works well if you're into dark narratives with haunting melodies, wave-like pacing with emotional peaks and vivid storytelling through raw intensity.

How many songs are on The Firstborn Is Dead?

The Firstborn Is Dead has 10 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

Tracklist

10 tracks·52:15

New here? Start with Tupelo.

  • 1 Tupelo Start here 7:16
  • 2 Say Goodbye to the Little Girl Tree Standout 5:11
  • 3 Train Long‐Suffering 3:49
  • 4 Black Crow King 5:06
  • 5 Knockin’ on Joe Standout 7:38
  • 6 Wanted Man 5:27
  • 7 Blind Lemon Jefferson 6:09
  • 8 In the Ghetto 4:06
  • 9 The Moon Is in the Gutter 2:38
  • 10 The Six Strings That Drew Blood 4:50

Release Date

June 3, 1985

Artist Origin

Australia

Runtime

52 min 15 sec