Brown Book cover

Brown Book

Death in June · 1987

44 min · 14 tracks · folk rock

Haunting melodies intertwine with stark lyrics, creating a chilling atmosphere that reflects themes of loss and existential dread.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Hail! The White Grain — This track exemplifies the album's fusion of folk melodies with darkly poetic lyrics, encapsulating the band's signature style while addressing themes of mortality.
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    To Drown a Rose — The song's introspective lyrics paired with minimal instrumentation create a haunting atmosphere that resonates with feelings of loss and longing.
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    We Are the Lust — This track stands out for its aggressive yet melodic arrangement, showcasing the duality of beauty and darkness that permeates the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • haunting melodies for introspection
  • unsettling soundscapes for solitude
  • brief tracks inviting deep reflection
  • captivating auditory experience unfolding

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of upbeat tempos
  • prefer straightforward, catchy songs

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1987, Brown Book is Death in June's third studio album, following their influential record, Nada! This album marked a continuation of the band's exploration into neofolk soundscapes and darker lyrical themes while solidifying their place in the post-punk landscape. The band's artistic evolution is evident as they delve deeper into controversial topics and stark imagery.
Stylistic neighbors
Current 93· Sol Invictus· Blood Axis

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Heilige Tod 1:01
  • 2 Touch Defiles 2:21
  • 3 Hail! The White Grain 4:14
  • 4 Runes and Men 3:01
  • 5 To Drown a Rose 4:26
  • 6 Red Dog - Black Dog 3:05
  • 7 The Fog of the World 2:31
  • 8 We Are the Lust 4:39
  • 9 Punishment Initiation 3:26
  • 10 Brown Book 4:26
  • 11 Burn Again 2:01
  • 12 Hail! The White Grain (reprise) 2:56
  • 13 To Drown a Rose (reprise) 3:24
  • 14 Runes and Men (reprise) 2:45

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata