Perverted by Language
The Fall · 1983
67 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock
A chaotic blend of jagged guitar riffs and Mark E. Smith's cryptic, sardonic lyrics, embodying the essence of post-punk experimentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Eat Y'self Fitter — This track stands out with its frenetic energy and biting commentary on self-sabotage, encapsulating the album’s overall theme of absurdity in modern life.
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The Man Whose Head Expanded — Opening with an infectious groove, this song features Smith's surreal storytelling, establishing a tone that resonates throughout the album.
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Neighbourhood of Infinity — This track showcases a more experimental side of The Fall, blending dissonant sounds with thought-provoking lyrics that challenge conventional perceptions.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's unconventional structure and unique sound contribute to its lasting appeal in the post-punk genre.
What we noticed
- The album features abrupt transitions between tracks, often shifting from chaotic guitar riffs to quieter, more introspective moments.
- Several songs incorporate unconventional song structures, with verses that do not follow a traditional chorus format.
- Mark E. Smith's vocal delivery is often spoken rather than sung, adding to the album's distinctive and sardonic tone.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
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
- dynamic peaks and valleys
- sardonic humor in lyrics
- intriguing narrative twists
- engaging late-night exploration
- chaotic energy for deep dives
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward song structures
- seek instant gratification
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Perverted by Language marked The Fall's sixth studio album and was released during a prolific phase for the band. Following the critical success of their previous album, Hex Enduction Hour in 1982, this record solidified their unique sound while continuing to showcase the band's relentless artistic evolution.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Wire· Gang of Four· The Birthday Party
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Man Whose Head Expanded 4:27
- 2 Ludd Gang 2:36
- 3 Kicker Conspiracy 4:14
- 4 Wings 4:35
- 5 Eat Y'self Fitter 6:36
- 6 Neighbourhood of Infinity 2:42
- 7 Garden 8:45
- 8 Hotel Bloedel 3:48
- 9 Smile 5:09
- 10 I Feel Voxish 4:19
- 11 Tempo House 8:53
- 12 Hexen Definitive / Strife Knot 7:00
- 13 Pilsner Trail 4:48
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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