Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds – Murder Ballads

Album Info

Artist: Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds

Title: Murder Ballads

Year: 1996

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Tracklist

  • 1. Song of Joy - 2011 Remastered Version (6:46)
  • 2. Stagger Lee - 2011 Remastered Version (5:15)
  • 3. Henry Lee (feat. PJ Harvey) - 2011 Remastered Version (3:58)
  • 4. Lovely Creature - 2011 Remastered Version (4:13)
  • 5. Where the Wild Roses Grow - 2011 - Remaster (3:57)
  • 6. The Curse of Millhaven - 2011 Remastered Version (6:55)
  • 7. The Kindness of Strangers - 2011 Remastered Version (4:39)
  • 8. Crow Jane - 2011 Remastered Version (4:14)
  • 9. O'Malley's Bar - 2011 Remastered Version (14:28)
  • 10. Death Is Not the End - 2011 Remastered Version (4:26)

Review

Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds' 'Murder Ballads' is a bewitching dance with the dark side of human nature. This 1996 opus paints a chiaroscuro of violence and passion, drawing inspiration from the gritty tradition of English folk ballads. Cave's lyrical prowess shines as he weaves intricate tales of doom and despair, each track a miniature novella dripping with gothic allure.

The album's sonic palette is as varied as its cast of ill-fated characters. From the haunting duet 'Where the Wild Roses Grow' with Kylie Minogue to the epic sprawl of 'O'Malley's Bar', Cave and his cohorts craft a rich tapestry of sound that perfectly complements the narratives. The reinterpretation of 'Stagger Lee' is particularly striking, transforming the folk standard into a graphic exploration of brutality that pushes the boundaries of musical storytelling.

'Murder Ballads' isn't just a collection of songs; it's a journey through the shadowy recesses of the human psyche. Cave's ability to find beauty in the macabre is on full display, creating an album that's simultaneously unsettling and utterly captivating. It's a testament to his artistry that he can take such grim subject matter and elevate it to something approaching transcendence. For those brave enough to venture into its depths, 'Murder Ballads' offers a uniquely rewarding listening experience. - Harper