Search - Swans :: Swans Are Dead

Swans' glorious last breath

07/10/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Though nothing can fully recreate the surreal power of a live swans concert, and those who were fortunate enough to witness such majick would likely be disapointed by any attempt to do so, "Swans Are Dead" is a beautiful album, and well worth any price. The first (white) disc, an archive of the 95-96 tour, features live versions of their newer work, mostly from the last studio album "Soundtracks for the Blind". Though an excellent disc, I could not feel its full effect due to anticipation for the second (black) disc and the much talked about final song "Feel Happiness", Michael Gira's emotional tribute to his "child" whom he devoted fifteen years of his life to. The album's only weak moment, in my opinion, is a stuffy rendition "Blood on Your Hands" in which the listener may believe Jarboe has as cold. Nevertheless, I cannot stress enough how essential the music of swans is. Buy this album and any other you may come across."

Turn off the lights and turn up the volume

01/04/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Once again the Swans leave us a fine little piece of musical wonderfulness, reworking or completely rewriting the music of some of their older songs and giving us a few more to enjoy. For those of you unfamiliar with the Swans, this may not be the best album to introduce you with, but any Swans is good Swans. For those of you that have seen the Swans live, especially on their final tour, this album is a must have. Though Jarboe yet again makes me think she was the reason for their death, the Gira songs are absolutely breath taking in their raw, aggresive forms. The New version of Bloodpromise is a work of art in my not so humble opinion. Go buy Swans stuff now."

Helpless Child, Feel Happiness, etc.

M. Johnson | Windy City | 05/22/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Swans is on my top 10 favorite groups list. And considering I've been listening to, buying and loving music since 1955, that's high praise. Swans Are Dead is one of their greatest sets, and I'm listening to it right now. For those of you who missed it, it's being rereleased in a few days (May 2003).
Among misterwarm's reviewing problems is criticizing art based on one's opinion of the artist. Biographical Fallacy is a big aesthetic booboo, buddy.
Furthermore, how can anyone call Michael Gira arrogant while praising CHARLTON HESTON?? Wow!"