Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds - Skeleton Tree LP Vinyl Record
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds return with their sixteenth studio album, 'Skeleton Tree,' released via Bad Seed Ltd. 'Skeleton Tree' follows the Bad Seeds' most critically and commercially successful release of recent times, 'Push the Sky Away' (2013).
Skeleton Tree's minimal production and "less polished" sound incorporates elements of electronica and ambient music and, like Push the Sky Away, features extensive use of synthesizers, drum machines and loops. Several songs on the album utilise avant-garde techniques, including the use of dissonant musical elements and non-standard song structures. Cave's allegorical and often-improvised lyrics have also been noted to be less narrative and character-based than on previous Bad Seeds albums.
The most surprising thing about Skeleton Tree, more surprising than Cave’s newfound seriousness and modest arrangements, is in how it ends with hope. The title track boasts not only the album’s fullest musical arrangement; gentle swelling synthesizers, a gorgeous piano lead, scratchy acoustic guitars, but also its brightest lyrics: “I called out that nothing is for free/And it’s all right now.” He repeats that last line three times in a way that suggests he means it, or at least that he’s trying to convince himself that he means it. Almost implying that if he didn’t, it would be all too overwhelming.
Staff Review:
Following the tragic death of his son, 2016 saw Nick Cave release his most emotional, raw and intense album to date. Written and recorded with the Bad Seeds before the accident, “Skeleton Tree” is an album finalised in the wake of devastation. Cave’s lyricism creates heartfelt emotions and his songwriting is possibly at its strongest, its captivating, intimate and heartfelt.
Though not every song was written directly about his son, Arthur, the themes of death, mortality and loss are at the foundation of “Skeleton Tree.” No stranger to death, it has been the theme of many of Cave’s works. However, the exploration of death is different here, instead of focusing it on his characters and narratives, Cave’ writes personally. A beautiful expression of self each lyric is incredibly intimate and genuine.
Released before “Skeleton Tree” was 2012’s “Push The Sky Away.” The album took a slight turn by focusing more on atmosphere and exploring more ambient and electronic sounds. Succeeding this exploration, the songs on "Skeleton Tree” create an evocative atmosphere, one that’s empty and gloomy yet warm and beautiful. The sounds of synthesisers, piano and empty percussion are used eerily to express a unique darkness.
Released following an overwhelming tragedy, Nick Cave’s “Skeleton Tree” is ultimately saddening but leaves hope. The album takes the listener on an emotional journey with its intensely beautiful lyrics and atmospheric soundscapes. One of the most beautiful albums I have ever heard, I don't believe I can fault "Skeleton Tree."
10/10 - Handsome Will
TRACKLISTING
Side A:
- Jesus Alone
- Rings Of Saturn
- Girl In Amber
- Magneto
Side B:
- Anthrocene
- I Need You
- Distant Sky
- Skeleton Tree
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