What makes Time of the Last Persecution by Bill Fay notable?

This album has gained a cult status over the years, particularly noted for its reflections on faith and disillusionment during a tumultuous era. Critics have praised it for its lyrical depth, with some tracks later influencing artists in the folk and rock genres, illustrating Fay's enduring impact despite limited commercial success. Released in 1971, Time of the Last Persecution was Bill Fay's second album, coming four years after his self-titled debut. At this point, Fay was still searching for wider recognition despite having a dedicated following, with his work often overshadowed by contemporaries.

How many songs are on Time of the Last Persecution?

Time of the Last Persecution has 14 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Time of the Last Persecution

Bill Fay · 1971

39 min · 14 tracks · folk rock

A haunting blend of introspective folk melodies and poetic lyrics that explore existential themes and societal issues.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Omega Day — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its melancholic melody and contemplative lyrics about the passage of time and loss.
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Pictures of Adolf Again — This song stands out for its stark commentary on historical violence juxtaposed with an almost whimsical melody, showcasing Fay's unique lyrical approach.
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'Til the Christ Come Back — This track encapsulates the album's spiritual angst, employing vivid imagery to explore themes of hope and despair in an uncertain world.
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Release Is in the Eye — Here, Fay plays with perspective and perception, offering a reflective take on human experience that resonates deeply throughout the record.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's introspective melodies and lyrical depth create a haunting yet cohesive experience.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of piano and acoustic guitar, with many tracks built around simple chord progressions that allow the lyrics to take center stage.
Several songs employ a slow tempo and sparse instrumentation, creating an intimate atmosphere that emphasizes the introspective nature of the lyrics.
The last three tracks gradually shift in mood, with 'Time of the Last Persecution' culminating in a more somber tone that lingers after the final note.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Omega Day 3:14
2 Don’t Let My Marigolds Die 2:26
3 I Hear You Calling 2:57
4 Dust Filled Room 2:03
5 ’Til the Christ Come Back 3:08
6 Release Is in the Eye 2:41
7 Laughing Man 3:15
8 Inside the Keeper’s Pantry 2:29
9 Tell It Like It Is 2:32
10 Plan D 3:12
11 Pictures of Adolf Again 2:27
12 Time of the Last Persecution 3:54
13 Come a Day 2:27
14 Let All the Other Teddies Know 2:31

What to play next

Listen next

Life Is People

2012

Go back to

Bill Fay

1970

Full Bill Fay discography Artists like Bill Fay

folk rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata