Marjory Razorblade cover

Marjory Razorblade

Kevin Coyne · 1973

78 min · 22 tracks · blues rock

A raw blend of blues rock and sardonic storytelling, punctuated by Coyne's distinctive, gravelly vocals and unconventional song structures.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Marjory Razorblade — The title track encapsulates the album's thematic core with its vivid imagery and sharp social commentary delivered through a haunting melody.
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    Old Soldier — This track stands out for its poignant exploration of memory and loss, showcasing Coyne's ability to weave personal narratives with broader reflections on life.
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    Eastbourne Ladies — With its sardonic humor and observational lyrics, this song reflects Coyne's knack for character-driven storytelling, making it a highlight of the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • theatrical storytelling through song
  • quirky narratives with emotional depth
  • short, vivid musical snapshots
  • late-night introspection with friends
  • bittersweet reflections on life

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking straightforward structures
  • prefer longer, cohesive compositions

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1973, Marjory Razorblade was Kevin Coyne's third studio album, following his acclaimed debut, Case History. At this point in his career, Coyne was establishing himself as a unique voice in the British music scene, known for his eclectic style and introspective lyrics that often tackled personal and societal themes.
Stylistic neighbors
John Martyn· Captain Beefheart· Rory Gallagher

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Mummy

    The lyrics shift from childhood memories to adult realizations creates a stark contrast between innocence and experience.

    This structural choice emphasizes the weight of nostalgia while revealing deeper emotional truths about growth and parental relationships.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Marjory Razorblade 1:45
  • 2 Marlene 2:43
  • 3 Talking to No-One 2:31
  • 4 Eastbourne Ladies 4:38
  • 5 Old Soldier 3:52
  • 6 I Want My Crown 4:20
  • 7 Nasty 5:05
  • 8 Lonesome Valley 2:57
  • 9 House on the Hill 4:53
  • 10 Cheat Me 3:45
  • 11 Jackie and Edna 4:05
  • 12 Everybody Says 4:24
  • 13 Mummy 4:10
  • 14 Heaven in My View 3:16
  • 15 Karate King 3:18
  • 16 Dog Latin 4:55
  • 17 This Is Spain 2:10
  • 18 Chairmans Ball 3:15
  • 19 Good Boy 2:39
  • 20 Chicken Wing 4:23
  • 21 Lovesick Fool 2:20
  • 22 Sea of Love 3:06

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata