Style: too many to count
Primary Emotions/Themes: a gentler, kinder Swans
Thoughts: The past three Swans albums are the very definition of challenging. I can't believe that these albums are as popular as they are. The fact that Swans has gotten mainstream recognition despite their incredibly inaccessible music is truly a wonder. I've resorted to posting lyrics from the album as I don't have the words to adequately express the way that these albums affect me. The last time I tried that I had to take a week off from writing (see Entries 596-599 for reference).
Leaving Meaning has the band taking a step back from the ultra inaccessibility of Swans, the Glowing Man and To Be Kind. In it's place we have a take on the newer Swans formula that utilizes cleaner singing, gentler instrumentation, and music that feels more genuine and intimate. It's not uncommon for the album to go for eight to ten minutes with only acoustic instruments and Michael singing in his crooning voice. Compared to what we've been subjected to lately, this is a welcome change.
Post reunion Swans is an enigma to me. Every album they release will be on their own terms and no one else's. Every time people have tried to influence Mr. Gira's music they are met with a giant middle finger. The dude truly does whatever he wants with no regard for anyone else, and Swans... no music is better for it.
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