What Is This?
Swans · 2019
67 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock · progressive rock · post-punk
A haunting exploration of soundscapes marked by dissonant melodies and profound introspection.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady pacing with gradual peaks haunting soundscapes for deep introspection immersive experience for focused listening
- Context
- Released on January 1, 2019, 'What Is This?' is Swans' first studio album in four years, following the critically acclaimed 'The Glowing Man.' This period marked a significant phase in the band’s evolution, as they embraced a more introspective and experimental approach while continuing to challenge their audience's expectations.
- If you like
- alternative rock, progressive rock, post-punk
What Is This? is an album by Swans, released in 2019. A haunting exploration of soundscapes marked by dissonant melodies and profound introspection. 'What Is This?' received widespread critical acclaim, highlighting its ambitious sound and lyrical depth. The album reinforced Swans' status as pioneers in avant-garde music, influencing both contemporary artists and the broader alternative rock scene. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does What Is This? sound like?
A haunting exploration of soundscapes marked by dissonant melodies and profound introspection. Rooted in alternative rock and progressive rock.
What makes What Is This? by Swans notable?
'What Is This?' received widespread critical acclaim, highlighting its ambitious sound and lyrical depth. The album reinforced Swans' status as pioneers in avant-garde music, influencing both contemporary artists and the broader alternative rock scene. Released on January 1, 2019, 'What Is This?' is Swans' first studio album in four years, following the critically acclaimed 'The Glowing Man.' This period marked a significant phase in the band’s evolution, as they embraced a more introspective and experimental approach while continuing to challenge their audience's expectations.
Who is What Is This? for?
What Is This? works well if you're into steady pacing with gradual peaks, haunting soundscapes for deep introspection and immersive experience for focused listening.
How many songs are on What Is This??
What Is This? has 10 tracks, running approximately 67 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Leaving Meaning Standout 6:32
- 2 The Hanging Man Standout 10:02
- 3 Amnesia 6:10
- 4 The Nub 5:49
- 5 Cathedrals of Heaven Standout 6:20
- 6 Sunfucker 6:29
- 7 What Is This? 5:20
- 8 My Phantom Limb 11:24
- 9 Annaline 3:50
- 10 It’s Coming and It’s Real 5:49
Release Date
January 1, 2019
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
67 min 45 sec
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