Barbed Wire Kisses
The Jesus and Mary Chain · 1988
63 min · 20 tracks · alternative rock · indie rock · post-punk
A raw blend of feedback-laden guitars and haunting melodies that capture the spirit of alternative rock's nascent years.
Why this album works
'Barbed Wire Kisses' is significant for its role in solidifying The Jesus and Mary Chain's influence on the burgeoning shoegaze movement, as well as its critical reception that celebrated the band’s innovative approach to noise pop. The album has been noted for its chart performance, peaking at number 14 on the UK Albums Chart and contributing to the band's growing legacy.
- Best for
- wave-like pacing with peaks dynamic collection of contrasts haunting melodies for introspection
- Context
- By the time 'Barbed Wire Kisses' was released in April 1988, The Jesus and Mary Chain were already established figures in the alternative rock scene following their breakthrough debut album 'Psychocandy' in 1985. This release is a compilation of B-sides and rarities, showcasing the band's evolution while maintaining their signature sound that had garnered both acclaim and controversy.
- Stylistic neighbors
- David Bowie· Duran Duran· Radiohead· Muse· Depeche Mode· Robbie Williams· Bryan Adams· Manic Street Preachers
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Kill Surf City Standout 3:13
- 2 Head 3:52
- 3 Rider 2:11
- 4 Hit 3:29
- 5 Don’t Ever Change 3:35
- 6 Just Out of Reach Standout 3:06
- 7 Happy Place 2:23
- 8 Psycho Candy Standout 2:59
- 9 Cracked 3:45
- 10 Mushroom 3:20
- 11 Sidewalking 3:34
- 12 Who Do You Love 4:04
- 13 Surfin’ USA 2:58
- 14 Everything’s Alright When You’re Down 2:39
- 15 Upside Down 2:59
- 16 Taste of Cindy 2:01
- 17 Swing 2:28
- 18 On the Wall 4:50
- 19 Here It Comes Again 2:33
- 20 Bo Diddley Is Jesus 3:17
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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