Song of the Bailing Man cover

Song of the Bailing Man

Pere Ubu · 1982

36 min · 11 tracks · art rock

Experimental art rock collides with surreal storytelling, creating a disorienting yet captivating auditory experience.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its unique blending of art rock and post-punk influences, showcasing Pere Ubu's role as pioneers in the genre. It received positive critical reception, helping to elevate the band's profile in alternative music circles during the early '80s.
Career context
Released in 1982, 'Song of the Bailing Man' is Pere Ubu's fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'The Modern Dance' and marks a period of evolving sound. At this stage, the band was solidifying their identity within the avant-garde scene, experimenting more freely with unconventional song structures and production techniques.
Stylistic neighbors
The Velvet Underground· Kate Bush· Lou Reed

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Long Walk Home Standout 2:35
  • 2 Use of a Dog 3:18
  • 3 Petrified 2:17
  • 4 Stormy Weather Standout 3:20
  • 5 West Side Story 2:47
  • 6 Thoughts That Go by Steam 3:49
  • 7 Big Ed’s Used Farms 2:25
  • 8 A Day Such as This Standout 7:17
  • 9 The Vulgar Boatman Bird 2:50
  • 10 My Hat 1:20
  • 11 Horns Are a Dilemma 4:21

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata