The Sword of God
Quasi · 2001
52 min · 14 tracks · indie rock
An eclectic blend of lo-fi rock and sardonic lyrics, capturing a raw energy that reflects the band's unique perspective.
Top tracks — play these first
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Fuck Hollywood — This track stands out for its sharp critique of the film industry, conveyed through catchy melodies and biting lyrics that juxtapose humor with frustration.
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The Sword of God — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of disillusionment and irony, pairing evocative imagery with a compelling sonic landscape that represents Quasi's artistic identity.
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Rock and Roll Can Never Die — Closing the album with a defiant anthem, this song blends nostalgic sentiment with a rebellious spirit, underscoring the band's commitment to authenticity amidst mainstream pressures.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases innovative songwriting and unique lyrical perspectives, though its cohesion is somewhat uneven.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a faster rhythm that continues through the next several songs.
- Several tracks employ unconventional song structures, such as abrupt transitions and unexpected key changes, which contribute to the album's eclectic feel.
- The lyrics often blend humor with social commentary, with multiple tracks featuring sardonic verses that challenge mainstream culture.
- 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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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. 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
- sardonic wit with gritty edges
- pacing that balances urgency
- reflective moments in raw energy
- for late-night drives
Maybe skip if you
- prefer polished, smooth sounds
- seek immediate emotional payoff
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 2001, The Sword of God is Quasi's fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed record, Featuring 'Birds'. At this point, the duo of Sam Coomes and Janet Weiss was solidifying their presence in the indie rock scene, moving further into experimental territories while maintaining their distinct sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Sleater-Kinney· The Thermals· Pavement
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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It's Raining
A shift occurs when the narrative voice moves from personal reflection to a broader commentary on societal apathy.
This transition allows the writing to expand its focus beyond individual experience, creating a more inclusive critique of contemporary issues.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Introduction 0:51
- 2 Fuck Hollywood 4:46
- 3 It's Raining 3:09
- 4 Genetic Science 3:21
- 5 The Sword of God 4:55
- 6 A Case of No Way Out 4:12
- 7 The Curse of Having It All 4:52
- 8 Seal the Deal 4:15
- 9 From a Hole in the Ground 3:14
- 10 Little Lord Fontleroy 3:33
- 11 Goblins and Trolls 4:10
- 12 Better Luck Next Time 3:58
- 13 Nothing, Nowhere 3:13
- 14 Rock and Roll Can Never Die 4:17
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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