Holy Wars
Tuxedomoon · 1985
49 min · 10 tracks · new wave
An eclectic fusion of post-punk and experimental sounds woven with haunting melodies and introspective lyrics.
Top tracks — play these first
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In a Manner of Speaking — This track stands out for its poignant delivery and minimalist arrangement, encapsulating the band's ability to blend melancholy with incisive commentary on communication and connection.
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Holy Wars — The title track effectively marries dark, atmospheric instrumentation with visceral lyrics, reflecting the album's overarching themes of conflict and spirituality.
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St. John — This song's haunting melodies and evocative lyrics create a captivating atmosphere that highlights the band's experimental approach to storytelling through music.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's eclectic sound and layered arrangements create a distinctive listening experience.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a slow waltz that sets a somber tone, followed by tracks that alternate between rhythmic and atmospheric elements.
- Several tracks feature layered instrumentation, creating a dense soundscape that contrasts with the sparse vocal delivery.
- The lyrics often employ abstract imagery, requiring listeners to engage deeply to unpack their meaning.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady, consistent energy levels
- long, immersive listening sessions
- dynamic emotional journeys
- atmospheric background focus
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1985, Holy Wars was Tuxedomoon's third studio album, following their acclaimed debut, Half Mute. At this stage, the band was solidifying their identity within the avant-garde music scene, blending theatrical elements with a diverse sonic palette.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Residents· Swans· Cabaret Voltaire
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Holy Wars
A verse shifts from abstract imagery to stark realities of violence and faith without hesitation.
This transition intensifies the emotional weight of the song, contrasting idealistic notions with harsh truths, showcasing lyrical craftsmanship.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Waltz 5:00
- 2 St. John 4:27
- 3 Bonjour Tristesse 5:24
- 4 Hugging the Earth 4:00
- 5 In a Manner of Speaking 3:28
- 6 Some Guys 4:50
- 7 Holy Wars 6:47
- 8 Watching the Blood Flow 5:04
- 9 Egypt 4:57
- 10 Soma 5:24
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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