Why this album works
'Document and Eyewitness' is notable for its raw documentation of live performances, highlighting the band's improvisational edge. It has influenced a myriad of post-punk and experimental artists, solidifying Wire's reputation as pioneers in the genre, and it received attention from critics for its boundary-pushing approach to live recording.
- Best for
- wave-like pacing with climaxes disorienting soundscapes for exploration fragmented tracks for focused listening
- Context
- Released in 1981, 'Document and Eyewitness' marks Wire's first live album, following their influential '154' (1979). This period for Wire is characterized by their transition from strict punk roots to more experimental and avant-garde sound explorations, showcasing their willingness to defy genre conventions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Butthole Surfers· Mark Mothersbaugh· The Boomtown Rats
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Go Ahead Standout 4:01
- 2 Ally in Exile 4:20
- 3 Relationship 1:22
- 4 Underwater Experiences 2:47
- 5 Witness to the Fact 2:46
- 6 2 People in a Room 1:58
- 7 Our Swimmer 3:01
- 8 Heartbeat Standout 3:12
- 9 5/10 6:00
- 10 12XU (Fragment) Standout 1:47
- 11 Underwater Experiences 2:38
- 12 Everythings Going to Be Nice 1:04
- 13 Piano Tuner (Keep Strumming Those Guitars) 5:19
- 14 We Meet Under Tables 3:05
- 15 Zegk Hoqp 5:28
- 16 Eastern Standard 3:03
- 17 Instrumental (Thrown Bottle) 2:12
- 18 Eels Sang Lino 3:04
- 19 Revealing Trade Secrets 2:33
- 20 And Then..... / Coda 9:00
- 21 Our Swimmer 3:34
- 22 Midnight Bahnhof Cafe 4:33
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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