This week we're discussing Birthing, the latest album by Swans. Our history guy and interviewer Tom Osman is filling in for Alex this week to reflect on our recent interview with Michael Gira, as well as take a deep dive into the final massive Swans album we're likely ever going to get. Birthing is as intense as it gets for Swans, so fans will be in for a treat, despite its 2 hour runtime. Be sure to check out all our episodes chronicling Swans’ entire discography (episodes 150, 160, and 170), as well as our interview with Michael Gira. Birthing releases on May 30.
Read MoreInterview with Michael Gira of Swans
This week we're interviewing Michael Gira: leader, vocalist, guitarist, and main songwriter for the legendary Swans. Swans' latest album, entitled Birthing, releases on May 30 and is reported by Gira to be the band's final large-sounding, expansive album. Michael was generous enough to have a phone conversation with Mike and Tom to talk all about it, as well as his creative process as a whole. Swans are a band like no other and if you haven't already, check out all of our episodes chronicling each of their studio albums.
Read MoreEpisode 170: Swans (Pt. 3)
This week we’re finishing our series on Swans, covering every album from their reunion in 2010 all the way to their most recent 2023 release, The Beggar. This era of the band is a massive sonic force unlike any other in the world and is not for casual listening. 2 hour albums, 30 minute songs, punishing intensity, and gorgeous atmosphere and musicality. Through this era, Michael Gira proves his uncompromising artistic vision in ways few others in history can compete with. Prepare yourself.
Read MoreEpisode 160: Swans (Pt. 2)
This week we’re discussing every album by Swans from 1987-1996. This era of the band is easily their most blindsiding, as they shifted heavily from the brutality of their early records to a more musical, goth, and at times even poppy direction. And what’s more shocking is that they still ruled every step of the way. While Michael Gira still had a revolving door of members in the band at this time, vocalist and keyboardist Jarboe became an essential part of this era of Swans.
Read MoreEpisode 150: Swans (Pt. 1)
This week we’re discussing every album by Swans from 1982-1986. Led by the unpredictable and immensely talented Michael Gira (and accompanied by long-time collaborators Norman Westberg and Jarboe), Swans is a band that can’t possibly be described in a paragraph. Their musical range is unprecedented and continues to evolve today. However, this era of the band made some of the most punishing, brutal, and disturbing music ever made. Unlike anything and truly barbaric. Enter with caution.
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