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Swans

Musical Group
Forlisteners curious about avant-rock/noise, long-form experimental rock, and intense live records—plus anyone trying to understand why people добровольно do this to their ears.
23 Reviews 24 Definitions 45 Charts
Industrial Experimental Post rock

The Profile

Swans are an American experimental rock band formed in the early 1980s in New York City and led by Michael Gira, known for evolving from punishing No Wave/industrial repetition to expansive, long-form avant-rock, with an especially intense reputation as a live act.

Publicly known: formed in New York City in 1982; founder and primary creative force is Michael Gira; the band initially ended in 1997 and later reactivated with a comeback album in 2010.

Across these reviews, Swans are portrayed as an uncompromising, often brutal and ritualistic force led by Michael Gira. Writers highlight the shift from early No Wave/industrial oppression (Cop, Holy Money) to later gothic/folk textures and then to massive, repetitive modern epics (The Seer, To Be Kind, The Glowing Man). Live documents are described as punishing, cathartic experiences, with volume, endurance, and transformation central to the appeal. Soundtracks for the Blind is repeatedly framed as a peak, with collage, drones, and a “testament” feel. Overall: intimidating, addictive, and (for many reviewers) essential.

Notable Quotes

❝ "The swans have returned."
❝ "We need a dream to escape."
❝ "This is one of the truest works you’ll ever hear, whether you like it or not."
❝ "There's no need to beat around the bush, we are faced with the Swans' magnum opus."
❝ "SWANS ARE DEAD."
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