Swans, the avant-garde collective known for their genre-defying sound, return with "Leaving Meaning," a sprawling, 93-minute exploration of noise, industrial, and post-rock landscapes. Released on October 25, 2019, under Mute, this album is a testament to Swans' enduring ability to push boundaries and challenge listeners.
"Leaving Meaning" is a sonic journey through a diverse range of styles, from the haunting neofolk of "Annaline" to the crushing industrial rock of "The Hanging Man." The album's title track is a sprawling, atmospheric piece that showcases Swans' signature ability to build tension and release it in waves of cathartic noise. Meanwhile, tracks like "Sunfucker" and "Cathedrals of Heaven" delve into drone and experimental territories, creating immersive soundscapes that are as unsettling as they are beautiful.
With "Leaving Meaning," Swans continue to defy easy categorization, blending elements of post-punk, art rock, and industrial into a cohesive whole that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The album's length and complexity make it a demanding listen, but those who invest the time will be richly rewarded with a deep, immersive experience that lingers long after the final notes fade away.
Vinylscout