Skeleton Tree cover

Skeleton Tree

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds · 2016

39 min · 8 tracks · alternative rock · post-punk · experimental rock

A haunting exploration of grief, layered with sparse instrumentation and Cave's poignant, reflective lyrics.

Why this album works

Best for
haunting reflections on grief steady pacing with emotional depth late-night introspection and solitude
Context
Released on September 9, 2016, 'Skeleton Tree' came just after the tragic death of Nick Cave's son, Arthur. This album marked a significant emotional turning point for Cave and the Bad Seeds, exploring themes of loss and mourning in a raw and intimate manner. It followed their previous album, 'Push the Sky Away' (2013), further delving into personal territory.
If you like
alternative rock, post-punk, experimental rock
If this clicks, go next to
Ghosteen — Continues the emotional depth and sparse soundscape of Skeleton Tree.

Skeleton Tree is an album by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, released in 2016. A haunting exploration of grief, layered with sparse instrumentation and Cave's poignant, reflective lyrics. 'Skeleton Tree' received widespread critical acclaim, debuting at number one in several countries and sparking discussions about its poignant themes related to grief. The album was particularly noted for its deep emotional resonance and was accompanied by the documentary 'One More Time with Feeling', which chronicled the album's creation against the backdrop of tragedy. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Skeleton Tree sound like?

A haunting exploration of grief, layered with sparse instrumentation and Cave's poignant, reflective lyrics. Rooted in alternative rock and post-punk. Start with "Jesus Alone".

Is Skeleton Tree a good place to start with Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds?

Yes, Skeleton Tree is recommended as a starting point for new Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds listeners. A haunting exploration of grief, layered with sparse instrumentation and Cave's poignant, reflective lyrics. Released on September 9, 2016, 'Skeleton Tree' came just after the tragic death of Nick Cave's son, Arthur. This album marked a significant emotional turning point for Cave and the Bad Seeds, exploring themes of loss and mourning in a raw and intimate manner. It followed their previous album, 'Push the Sky Away' (2013), further delving into personal territory.

Who is Skeleton Tree for?

Skeleton Tree works well if you're into haunting reflections on grief, steady pacing with emotional depth and late-night introspection and solitude.

How many songs are on Skeleton Tree?

Skeleton Tree has 8 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Tracklist

8 tracks·39:44

New here? Start with Jesus Alone.

  • 1 Jesus Alone Start here 5:52
  • 2 Rings of Saturn 3:28
  • 3 Girl in Amber Standout 4:51
  • 4 Magneto 5:22
  • 5 Anthrocene 4:34
  • 6 I Need You 5:58
  • 7 Distant Sky Standout 5:36
  • 8 Skeleton Tree 4:03

Release Date

September 9, 2016

Artist Origin

Australia

Runtime

39 min 44 sec