Why this album works
This album is significant for its influence on the art punk genre, showcasing Wire's willingness to experiment with brevity and complexity. It received positive reviews, helping to cement their legacy as innovators within the post-punk movement, particularly among bands emerging from the UK underground scene.
- Best for
- wave-like pacing with peaks concise tracks for quick bursts artistic energy for active listening
- Context
- Released in 1989, 'On Returning' marked Wire's return after a hiatus following their seminal album '154' in 1979. At this point, they were attempting to redefine their sound, moving from their earlier post-punk roots into more experimental territories while navigating changes in the music landscape influenced by the burgeoning indie rock scene.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Butthole Surfers· Mark Mothersbaugh· The Boomtown Rats
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 1.2.X.U. 1:56
- 2 It’s So Obvious 0:52
- 3 Mr Suit Standout 1:25
- 4 Three Girl Rhumba 1:24
- 5 Ex Lion Tamer 2:18
- 6 Lowdown 2:27
- 7 Straight Line 0:46
- 8 106 Beats That 1:13
- 9 Strange 3:58
- 10 Reuters 3:02
- 11 Field Day for the Sundays 0:29
- 12 Champs 1:47
- 13 Feeling Called Love 1:22
- 14 I Am the Fly Standout 3:07
- 15 Dot Dash Standout 2:24
- 16 Practice Makes Perfect 4:06
- 17 French Film Blurred 2:35
- 18 Another the Letter 1:08
- 19 I Feel Mysterious Today 1:56
- 20 Men 2nd 1:42
- 21 Marooned 2:20
- 22 Sand in My Joints 1:51
- 23 Outdoor Miner 2:51
- 24 A Question of Degree 3:11
- 25 I Should Have Known Better 3:50
- 26 Two People in a Room 2:09
- 27 Blessed State 3:28
- 28 The Other Window 2:09
- 29 40 Versions 3:28
- 30 A Touching Display 6:55
- 31 On Returning 2:06
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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