I've already heard Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds' new album on myspace, and I already think it's one of the 25 best albums of this decade. It was released today; my copy is en route from amazon.com, since I don't trust any of the crappy CD stores around here to carry it. So while I impatiently wait for it, here are some of his past albums that are all more than worth hearing:
The Boatman's Call: A beautiful collection of ballads that many consider his masterpiece. It shows off his songwriting ability much more than the instrumental chops of his band, but as far as heartbreaking piano/songwriter work goes, you can't beat "There Is A Kingdom" and "Into My Arms".
No More Shall We Part: I've always been able to appreciate this album more than enjoy it. The lyrical territory is so death-obsessed fire and brimstone that it's difficult to get to the end while maintaining any faith in God or humanity. There sure are some brilliant moments though: "And No More Shall We Part" is a perfect piano ballad for a funeral, and "Oh My Lord" has an amazing climax that involves Nick yelling "oh I hate them all!".
Abattoir Blues/Lyre Of Orpheus: In his mid-40s, he creates his masterpiece. Everything that Nick ever did great is magnified here. "There She Goes, My Beautiful World" rocks louder than he ever has with its pounding piano and screaming choir. "O Children" is like a summary of No More Shall We Part. "Breathless" is an honest-to-God love song! "Let The Bells Ring" is an unbelievable Johnny Cash eulogy. You have to hear the entire two discs to understand the depth, scope, and perfection of this album.
Grinderman: What does he do for an encore? Rename the band and do punk-blues songs about primal sexual urge. I think "No Pussy Blues" summarizes it pretty well. This isn't half the masterpiece that his last record was, but what a sweet divergence.
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