Why this album works
This album is notable for its experimental approach within the art punk genre, receiving positive reviews from critics and solidifying Wire's influence on subsequent post-punk artists. It also featured the track 'Silk Skin Paws', which became a staple in their live performances and has been covered by various artists over the years.
- Best for
- long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys wave-like pacing and flow
- Context
- Released in January 1988, 'A Bell Is a Cup' marked Wire's fifth studio album and their return after a five-year hiatus. The band was exploring new sonic territories after the critical success of their earlier works like 'Chairs Missing' and '154', showcasing a mature evolution in both their sound and lyrical complexity.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Butthole Surfers· Mark Mothersbaugh· The Boomtown Rats
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Silk Skin Paws Standout 4:53
- 2 The Finest Drops Standout 5:01
- 3 The Queen of Ur and the King of Um 4:03
- 4 Free Falling Divisions 3:39
- 5 It’s a Boy 4:26
- 6 Boiling Boy 6:22
- 7 Kidney Bingos Standout 4:12
- 8 Come Back in Two Halves 2:43
- 9 Follow the Locust 4:22
- 10 A Public Place 4:30
- 11 The Queen of Ur and the King of Um (alternative version) 4:02
- 12 Pieta 7:29
- 13 Over Theirs (live) 6:36
- 14 Drill (live) 8:01
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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