Music for a New Society cover

Music for a New Society

John Cale · 1982

44 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock · classical · folk rock

A stark blend of avant-garde experimentation and haunting melodies that reflect personal turmoil and societal critique.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo reflective moments
  • haunting melodies with emotional depth
  • thought-provoking societal critiques
  • introspective listening for solitude

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking upbeat party tracks
  • prefer instant gratification sounds

Where this album fits

Career context
By 1982, John Cale was in a phase of artistic reinvention following his departure from the Velvet Underground and several eclectic solo albums. 'Music for a New Society' marked his return to a more introspective style after the commercial struggles of previous works, positioning him as a pioneering figure in alternative rock during this period.
Stylistic neighbors
Brian Eno· Lou Reed· David Bowie

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Taking Your Life in Your Hands 4:45
  • 2 Thoughtless Kind 2:37
  • 3 Sanities 5:58
  • 4 If You Were Still Around 3:25
  • 5 (I Keep a) Close Watch 3:06
  • 6 Broken Bird 4:43
  • 7 Chinese Envoy 3:09
  • 8 Changes Made 3:11
  • 9 Damn Life 5:10
  • 10 Risé, Sam and Rimsky-Korsakov 2:12
  • 11 In the Library of Force 5:56

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata