Coatings cover

Coatings

Wire · 1997

70 min · 13 tracks · art punk

A kaleidoscopic blend of art punk and experimental sounds that twist conventional song structures into unpredictable forms.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with unpredictable peaks
  • wave-like pacing that engages deeply
  • intriguing soundscapes for exploration
  • for focused listening sessions

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek immediate, catchy satisfaction

Where this album fits

Career context
Upon the release of 'Coatings' in January 1997, Wire was navigating a period of reinvention after their initial post-punk success in the late 1970s. This album came as a follow-up to 'The First Letter', showcasing their continued exploration of avant-garde soundscapes and complex arrangements, marking their evolution as a band committed to innovation.
Stylistic neighbors
Gang of Four· The Fall· Television

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Ambulance Chasers (studio version) 5:11
  • 2 A Serious of Snakes (alternate mix) 6:12
  • 3 Ambitious (alternate mix) 5:11
  • 4 Madman’s Honey (alternate mix) 3:03
  • 5 Kidney Bingos (original mix) 5:20
  • 6 It’s a Boy (instrumental) 3:54
  • 7 German Shepherds 5:34
  • 8 Boiling Boy 5:35
  • 9 Drill 8:32
  • 10 In Vivo (club mix) 6:29
  • 11 Who Has Nine? 6:05
  • 12 It Can’t Be True Can It? 4:06
  • 13 Gravity Worship 5:10

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata