In this collaborative album with Warren Ellis, Nick Cave partially abandons the depressing tones of Skeleton Tree and the dense, magical, and tragic "wall of sound" of Ghosteen in favor of a more dynamic sound, occasionally evoking the early days of his career and his records with Grinderman. It is a Cave who launches into epic political sermons (White Elephant, the masterpiece of the album in the opinion of the writer), provides simple reflections on the desolate life and the meaning of love in light of recent events (Albuquerque, Balcony Man, and the title track), and touches tragic and emotional chords with his stunning vocal interpretation (Hand of God, Shattered Ground, Old Time).
Although it is not groundbreaking, Carnage opens the doors to a new chapter in Cave's career, less bent under the weight of family losses and more inclined to tackle current and universal themes.
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