What makes Mistrial by Lou Reed notable?

Though it did not achieve significant commercial success, 'Mistrial' is notable for its critical reception, particularly for tracks like 'Video Violence', which addresses media sensationalism. The album showcases Reed's ongoing influence on alternative rock and remains a point of reference for artists exploring narrative-driven songwriting. By the time 'Mistrial' was released in January 1986, Lou Reed had already established himself as a pivotal figure in rock music, following his influential solo career that began in the early 1970s. This album came after the commercial disappointment of 'The Blue Mask' and represented a shift towards a more accessible sound while retaining Reed's signature lyrical edge.

Mistrial works well if you're into mid-tempo urban storytelling, biting lyrics with sharp wit and steady flow for focused listening.

How many songs are on Mistrial?

Mistrial has 10 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Mistrial

Lou Reed · 1986

39 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A gritty blend of rock and experimental sounds that captures the complexity of urban life with sharp lyrical observations.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Mistrial — The title track opens the album with a driving beat and incisive lyrics that address themes of justice and societal failure, setting the tone for the rest of the record.
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Video Violence — This track critiques sensational media culture through its darkly humorous lens, illustrating Reed's ability to tackle contemporary issues with biting irony.
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Don't Hurt a Woman — With its poignant lyrics and emotive delivery, this song stands out as an exploration of vulnerability and empathy, showcasing another dimension of Reed's songwriting.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

Mistrial combines gritty rock with experimental sounds, showcasing Reed's lyrical sharpness but lacks commercial impact.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features a steady, driving beat and layered guitar textures, setting a gritty tone.
Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements alongside traditional singing, creating a varied vocal delivery.
The lyrics often employ sharp, observational commentary on urban life, with recurring themes of media and personal relationships.
The final track features an abrupt ending that leaves the listener with a sense of unresolved tension.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. 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

mid-tempo urban storytelling
biting lyrics with sharp wit
steady flow for focused listening
cynical humor in everyday life
reflective moments amidst jarring sounds

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A solid entry in Reed's catalog, notable but not widely recognized or accessible.
Career context: By the time 'Mistrial' was released in January 1986, Lou Reed had already established himself as a pivotal figure in rock music, following his influential solo career that began in the early 1970s. This album came after the commercial disappointment of 'The Blue Mask' and represented a shift towards a more accessible sound while retaining Reed's signature lyrical edge.
Stylistic neighbors: David Bowie· Iggy Pop· The Velvet Underground