What makes Banga by Patti Smith notable?

'Banga' received critical acclaim upon its release, with notable praise from outlets like Rolling Stone and The Guardian. It not only solidified Smith's status as a vital voice in contemporary music but also reached number 24 on the Billboard 200 chart, demonstrating her continued relevance decades into her career. When 'Banga' was released in June 2012, Patti Smith was a revered figure in the music world, celebrating her return with new material after more than a decade since her last studio album, 'Trampin'' (2004). This album marked a period of creative rejuvenation for Smith, showcasing her enduring lyrical prowess and musical experimentation.

Banga works well if you're into wave-like pacing with peaks, poetic lyrics for deep reflection and steady progression to climax.

How many songs are on Banga?

Banga has 12 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Released 14 years ago this June

Banga

Patti Smith · 2012

58 min · 12 tracks · post-punk · art rock · proto-punk

A tapestry of poetic lyrics and diverse soundscapes blending rock, punk, and world music influences.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing with peaks
poetic lyrics for deep reflection
steady progression to climax
immersive journey through soundscapes
thought-provoking themes and narratives

Maybe skip if you want

seeking instant gratification
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

Themes: Amerigo exploration· Constantine's Dream storytelling· love and loss urgency
Career context: When 'Banga' was released in June 2012, Patti Smith was a revered figure in the music world, celebrating her return with new material after more than a decade since her last studio album, 'Trampin'' (2004). This album marked a period of creative rejuvenation for Smith, showcasing her enduring lyrical prowess and musical experimentation.
Stylistic neighbors: Siouxsie and the Banshees· The Velvet Underground· Joy Division
Sounds like this from elsewhere: Old Ideas by Leonard Cohen — Shares poetic storytelling and a blend of rock and folk influences with reflective themes of love and loss.

The Next Day by David Bowie — Combines art rock and layered soundscapes while exploring deep themes of identity and existence.

Push the Sky Away by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds — Features rich lyrical narratives and atmospheric instrumentation, echoing themes of longing and introspection.