Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus

Nick Cave.... Nothing unpleasant and flowing quite well despite it's length

One of my favourites, a lot of strong songs throughout with a mix of loud, lively and catchy.

712/1001 2026.09.29 🌕🌕🌕🌑🌑

not for me

I was into this! I don't know if I attended closely enough to fully follow the narrative on first listen, but I found this increasingly compelling. I feel like he's one of those artists who I feel I know without ever having really engaged with the work - glad to have that corrected.

Has that song from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. That's all I really took from this album. Quite enjoyable though.

Waaaaay better than Murder Ballads, which was a real chore to get through. Nature boy is a standout. Too long tho

Alternative Rock/Art Rock (I’m very conflicted if this should’ve also been Gospel Rock. I mainly grab the genres from Rate Your Music, and given the religious undertones in this album, I kinda think it should’ve also been classified as this, too.) Favorite Track (Although I’m not gonna grab them in my personal music library): There She Goes, My Beautiful World, Supernaturally Least Favorite Track: *Did not record* So this was my second album from Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds…although my first randomly generated album from the band on this site. I’ve listened to The Boatman’s Call earlier, and that I believe was because of Karsten Koening’s 100 Albums you need to listen to video. I was actually a bit disappointed about that album as I thought it was generally a bit boring for a Piano Rock album. It’s just an above average album for me, but I really wouldn’t say that it’s one of my favorites. So, now that I’m listening to this second album…sonically, it’s better, but once again, I feel conflicted. Lyrically on this double album, from what I could understand, it’s about the singer’s views about religion, or more so about the whole false prophets that shows imagery of some apocalyptic view of following those false prophets. It’s the way that we would take things for granted from God and would twist his teachings to showcase our overall greed. This is especially the case with the final track of the album as it sounded like they were being sent to the abattoir, which essentially means the Slaughterhouse. …or admittedly…I should probably put God in quotation marks…because I can’t relate to this album. I’m an atheist. Now, I want to state for the record, I don’t have an issue to those who are religious. Frankly, I think there are some good teachings about religion overall. I think one of my favorite lines from the Christian Bible would have to be with Matthew 19:23, where it said, “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven.” As an overall socialist, I really like this line because it warns people about greed. (Billionaires, take note.) That being said, as I can agree with the overall messaging of this album…I don’t think that I can relate because I just can’t believe in a higher up. Sonically, it’s the best sounding album that I’ve heard, especially with the first CD as it’s more Rock and Roll than anything, and there might be a point in the future where I might relisten to this album again, but I just had a bad first impression. (And I also think the album’s a little bloated.) 6/10

I liked The Lyre of Orpheus more than Abattoir Blues. This was the perfect album to listen to on October 1.

thoughts: - starts out with a banggggggg - double album!!!! - "I woke up this morning with a frappuccino in my hand" - Easy Money sounds like a calmer O Children standouts: - the lyre of orpheus >>>>>>> eurydice mention!!!!! - o children, what a closing number

I love Nick Cave. But sometimes he loses me a little. I like this album, but not as much as some of his others.

I love being sad

Meh. I did not really care for Murder Ballads, but I preferred that. Too long, and mostly forgettable for me personally. ⭐️⭐️

Never heard before but heard of it. Very good album definitely will do repeated listens.

Ok was not expecting to enjoy this so much?? Nick Cave is A LOT and I'd only previous known a few of his big songs, all rightly celebrated (Red Right Hand, Where The Wild Roses Grow, Into My Arms) but sounded like it would be a challenging double album listen. Anyway happy to say I was so wrong and I loved both sides - some quite fun piano rockers (not sure if that's an accurate description) Get Ready for Love, Nature Boy (maybe overall favourite), and then the more introspective and beautiful second half (loved Breathless and Supernaturally). His voice is commanding and it creates a real world around it, and I felt like it kinda mixed darkness and humour throughout. And, just so many great outros on these songs!!

Much preferred the second half. Some of the tracks are a bit jarring, but overall a pretty solid record. Favourite track: Easy Money

8/10

This is what a double album should be! One side has his more Punk and Blues-adjacent tracks and the other has some artier, more Gospel-style and choir-led tracks. The first disc starts on a high, with 'Get Ready For Love', but 'Nature Boy' was likely my favourite. Whereas, the second disc is practically flawless throughout the entire duration! It'd be hard to pick favourites, but: 'Breathless', 'Easy Money', 'Supernaturally' and obviously 'O Children', were the most enjoyable to me. Funnily enough, I was expecting to much prefer the first disc - the more Blues-y and Gothic style is much more appealing to me. However, the second disc was actually my favourite by a large margin. This shocked me, as I prefer Cave's earlier work and am not as fond of his later work, and this album shows both sides directly next to each other!

favs: messiah ward abattoir blues let the bells ring the lyre of orpheus easy money supernaturally spell rating 2.1/5

A phenomenal double album. Maybe Nick’s best , pound-for-pound? This (and Lazarus, which comes next) is one of the last rock/ aggro albums he does before he reconstructs the Bad Seeds (ie Warren Ellis becomes his right hand man) to become moodier and synth-heavier.

Bien.

Très sympa j'ai bien aimé malgré mes différent avec Nick. Comme quoi personne n'est destiné à faire que de la merde on peut toujours se racheter

Très cool, proche du 5 pour o children

A lot. But kind of amazing. The first part is darkly witty bluesy rock Goth shreds. Then the second part is quieter and more introspective. I always want to be able to say I like Nick Cave. Now I can. This is not perfect but very good.

I started off incredibly bored and annoyed by this collection. I don’t know if it got better, the second album is better, or I got acclimated, but the listen gradually improved. At its best, just some straightforward unassuming, well-crafted rock.

Jjj

A wise man told me, “dad, if I don’t know what to do with something I just give it a 3.” I will follow that sage advice here. Did I like it - No. Was it way too long - Yes! A couple good songs, but mostly not. The formula seems to be depressing, thought provoking poetry with a choir ending. Oh well, this fellow seems to have a big following and perhaps I just don’t appreciate his greatness. In any case, it gets a generous 3 from me.

I wanted to like this more given the absolute banger this band had with Red Right Hand (different album) but it was kind of a snooze fest, and I didn’t love the vocals. Still, I’ve heard much worse.

This album truly remarkable in terms of both musicianship and lyricism. My only complaint is that I have a sudden strange desire to steal the declaration of independence.

Had not heard of this band before and generally enjoyed the album - good sound, interesting lyrics. Could have been shorter. Rounding up from a 3.5.

This is the first time that I have heard this particular album, although its not the first time that I have heard Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. This is apparently the first Bad Seeds album without Blixa Bargeld and his absence is noticeable. This is a much smoother and keyboard driven album than what came before. The introduction of the chorus also adds a distinctively gospel element to the sound. Overall, I like it. The first album is overall, really strong, even though I don't particularly like the last song. (Get Ready for Love is a particularly strong opener.) The next album isn't quite as strong and there were a few moments that felt more like a tradition singer songwriter album, which is a bit less interesting, but the album's last three songs end on a good note. I suspect that we are going to get quite a bit more Nick Cave and I am looking forward to it.

Meh

Probably the best record Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds put out, contrasting styles on both discs, great songwriting, lyrics and performances. Super opening track, haunting closing track and a bunch of excellent songs like Hiding It All Away in between. A record you can put on and bask in a reignited band at the top of their game. 9/10

2.5

Enjoyed this a lot. Very good instrumentation and loved Nick Caves voice and think I could get lost More in these lyrics on future listens. It’s a bit long but honestly I don’t think there was a single song I didn’t like. Some better than others but overall great album 4.5/5

Like the bigger band sound here. The darker vocals with the brighter backing work really well.

Abattoir Blues is great, particularily the back half, but The Lyre of Orpheus is boring. Good album cover, I wish the flowers filled the whole page, but I understand the sytlistic choice. Would have rated a 3 if Lyre of Orpheus was just a bit better. Best song: There She Goes My Beautiful World. Worst Song: Easy Money

No thank you

A decent 2000's album, Nick Cave generally struggles to create a modern feel to an old sound. However, "Get Ready for Love," with its grandeur, stands out to me as one of the few songs which I enjoy. Other songs, particularly on the second disc, may challenge traditions and interest me, but most tracks do not introduce anything unique and fail to adapt to the modern soundscape, an issue prevalent in the record as a whole. While dated and dull, Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus is not offensive at any time; most songs are simply inadequate rather than unpleasant.

This is a 2 and a 4 at the same time. Maybe by the time I get to the 5th(!?) Nick Cave album I'll figure out why he fails to speak to my inner goth kid.

I think this is the most I’ve hated an album I liked.

Words cannot describe how much I did not care about anything in this album. I felt nothing, nothing good and nothing bad.

Wow! Was that ever long and boring! Wow!

Nick is a pretty alright guy. His music is groovy too. Sorta punky. Sorta hip.

Maybe a bit long but I liked this a lot more than I thought I would. There's nowhere for his unique voice to hide on some of the slower songs and I think he's at his best when he can rage a little bit.

Interesting album, variety of sounds. Mostly listenable, does drag on, and a couple of songs that drag it down.

I have a tough time with this guy as he is a little too much personality to get through. I somewhat like the singing parts of his songs, but the slow, sing-speak he constantly relies on just kill me. It's as if he decided the words he is saying are more important than making them sound good, and they just aren't.

I dug this for the most part; I think I’d have more of an appreciation for it if I listened to it a few more times. Very dense.

First album is 4 stars, second is 2.7.

the second nick cave album we've drawn and like when we drew henry's dream it also came at a time i was feeling pretty low. i admire nick cave as a songwriter a lot, i think the lyre of orpheus definitely shows his skills off better than abattoir blues, this was the perfect day to have pulled this album really because as i was lying in bed listening to this it really seemed to speak right to my core.

Cave must've bribed the creators of this list, because it's mind boggling how prevalent he is on here... This isn't even his worst album.

forgettable

tienes que tragarte todo el álbum (a excepción de Nature Boy) para llegar a O Children... me sobran todas las canciones menos estas dos pero O Children casi hace que merezca la pena escucharlo entero.

It's a very unique album. It's mostly rock, but it has other genres incorporated into it. It's a pretty good album. It wasn't my favorite, but it was still pretty good overall.

Bluesy, think it would be great to see live...

Great voice. I appreciate how committed he is to the lyrics. Solid atmosphere

Not one of Nick Cave's I had heard before and it has blown me away. I think he has one of the best voices of the time and this double LP really highlights that. The lyrics and vocals are what make this project so brilliant. He is really one of the great modern story tellers

I only knew the last song from the Harry Potter movie. The rest is alright, but I don't like that there is so much gospel singing.

Messiah Ward is my favourite.

I just had Murder Ballads by NC a few days ago, and I rated it highly. I also happened to be drinking whiskey while I had it on. Considering I don’t like Nick Cave usually, I was surprised to like that one. Now I have this double album with two names and a very lovely album cover. I didn’t have any whiskey this time, but I cracked my knuckles and dove in. Nah, this wasn’t for me.

I really liked this.

While valid arguments can be made for several albums across their amazing discography, for me Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus takes the crown. Other albums may contain better individual songs, but pound-for-pound, there is no doubt in my mind which record I am reaching for if I get to pick just one. Outside of what was yet to come on subsequent albums, and perhaps the absolute noisiest material from their earliest albums, Abbatoir/Lyre encompasses everything they are capable of and delivers top quality on every front. The band had already achieved technical expertise perhaps even as much as 15 years before this album, and had been continuing to hone their craft both live and across many studio albums. They didn’t even approach this any differently than before (except for the absence of Blixa of course) but after a furious couple of weeks they were faced with the very real need to make it a double album. When everything shook down, the two-parter was essentially presented as the loud album and the quiet album, but while my ears had somehow allowed my brain to accept that for years, my listens for this review have given me cause for a rethink. The contrasts between the two discs are far less day-and-night than history suggests. Abattoir might come across as more muscular and Lyre more melancholic, but neither sticks to the script throughout. If anything, this strengthens the innate power of the piece providing a cohesion that may have been diluted had things been divided up more strictly along party lines. The employment of the London Community Gospel Choir ties things together further and although their contributions are used to endlessly effective ends throughout, they never manage to take over and dominate proceedings enough to change the album into “The Bad Seeds’ gospel album”. It is consistently obvious what you are listening to from beginning to end, namely one hugely important group, operating at the peak of their powers and delivering a masterclass.

I'm certain I'm not alone in saying that double albums have a way of being a bit off-putting, especially if it's from an artist I've never heard before. However, I'm pleased to announce that this was really good. Lots of good moments in here, although I may have felt it was starting to drag a little towards the end.

He’s a funny guy, but his style of music doesn’t resonate with me at all. Too jagged and discordant.

Ok, would I listen to again, probably not.

This was fine, but I probably could have died without having heard it.

Nice album enjoyed it

Album #193: Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds – Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Glad to see this album included on the list. This is my favorite Nick Cave album, and not only that, in my opinion, I think this is his most accessible album and the best entry to his music. But also, it’s probably the best summation of his music in general. Across this double album, it’s all here. Everything you need to know about Nick Cave, up to that point in his career at least, is all here. You don’t get the atmospheric stuff from Push the Sky Away onwards, but you do get the gothic rock and roll, the funny lyrics, the ferocious arrangements, and then the soft, tender piano moments, wrought with emotion, and just his great baritone voice. I love the idea that the album is essentially two different albums, and I think with this one you come for the fire and brimstone and you stay for the soft balladry. It is the two sides of Nick Cave after all. This thing is just full of ideas from beginning to end. No bad tracks, in fact, and very few dud moments in it. I used to adore Abattoir Blues and kind of somewhat dismiss The Lyre of Orpheus, and I’ve done a complete 180 on that now. I think the second album is actually the better one, with the better songwriting on it. Easy Money is my favourite song on the album. But you also have O Children, which is an incredible closer, Breathless, which is a beautiful and probably his most playful song overall. And you’ve got great lyrics throughout. My favourite lyric being, “If you’re gonna dine with the cannibals, sooner or later, darling, you’re gonna get eaten.” I mean, you can apply that to so many things in your life. I’m not going to give it a five. I’ve kind of fallen out of love with Nick Cave recently. I’m not sure why, but I think there’s a bit of subjectivity going on there. But I think objectively it’s not perfect. There are a few moments, especially Fable of the Brown Ape and Lyre of Orpheus. Those songs are a cut below. And Messiah Ward is also kind of a weak moment as well. But for the most part it’s spectacular, and it’s the album I’d recommend to anyone getting into Nick Cave. I do think his best run was probably from Push the Sky Away onwards, although I wasn’t the biggest fan of Wild God. But for 2004, I think this is the best album he’d made up to that point, and the best entry point for any newcomer to his music.

I was going to dock this a point because it's a little overlong and meandering in places. But the good bits are just sooo good that I feel like it deserves a 5 anyway...

I'm not really sure why Nick Cave doesn't just do poetry or spoken word. The way he delivers lyrics over the songs always makes it seem like the song is just getting in the way. I don't enjoy that as a listener. I don't actually find the backing tracks that interesting at all. Nick Cave has the energy of that type of person that will attempt a segue like "That's like a thing that happened in this tabletop campaign I'm running" and no matter the response begin to just talk about it to anyone and no one. I'm glad he's entertaining himself I guess.

Triple blind. TOTALLY unexpected but this album slaps! You can hear the influences like Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, maybe some Bob Seager, but a totally new take. Really enjoyed this one

An interesting genre mashup of Americana, yacht rock and maybe even some chris Isaac. fun enough overall!

Had never heard this before, cool vibe. Really enjoyed the first 5 songs, then I got a little bored but that could have been because of my listening environment. Will definitely revisit

I can’t believe I am about to do this. I’ve had a series of Nick Cave albums and really just hated almost all of what he has done (Murder Ballads was at least a very ambitious choice). His voice is unpleasant and his lyrics are overwrought. It’s been one of the worst things about this list, having so many of his albums on it. So when this came up as the next album to listen to, my immediate reaction was, “ugh!” And yet, here we are, and I’m very surprisingly saying this is excellent. To be sure, this isn’t all incredible and the first disc is much better than the second. That said, the musicality, the song structures, the playing, etc. is all great on this record. What I liked most about this is that this was more of a straight rock effort. There was so much greater emphasis put on the construction of a full sound, one that actually complimented his voice. At least I now understand why he might be part of this book series, and this proves I can be open minded. Also, there’s a reason this is his highest rated record of those included. For the first time, in four albums, I finally have added some of his songs to my own library. Personal favorites on this were Messiah Ward and Let the Bells Ring. 4 stars.

i love this album <3

Stunning poetic , rock n roll , blues , spirituals all of it genius unique

Dziwny, trochę pyszałkowaty głos czego nie lubię ale "Spell" bardzo dobre

Po co dwie płyty. Jak nie masz pomysłu to daj 1 a nie robisz promocję jak na karpia w lidlu jajks

klasa, dopiero w połowie albumu przypomnialem sobie ze ten glos z train dreams znam

Tss que buen disco doble. Muy buenas rolas, la gran mayoría :D

This gave me an idea for a duet album, Neil and Nick "Diamond Cave".

Another day another Nick Cave banger.

He always manages to sound smug while being obnoxiously hammy; reminiscent of a thirteen year old with way too much maternal affirmation. OK it’s about the lyrics. What I don’t get about lyrics-first songwriters is the general disregard for how the words SOUND. Where is the phrasing? Where is the respect for meter? The words too often land with a clunk, or drag out awkwardly among the magic going on around them. The few that I can hear are too pretentious to make me want to read the rest. Everything going on behind him (on the first album) is a lot more musically interesting than the other albums from him I’ve heard. I just wish he weren’t on it. The second album is as self-indulgent and as disappointing as his other albums.

Beautiful, cathartic, intense, poetic, and imposing crooked alternative rock with a semi-gospel-like delivery. Fist to the air!

I like, very mm for what is is. A little Duke-y in spots. Vibey

This might be my favourite thing from Nick Cave, it's long but there's a lot of amazing songs here, not too much filler

Segundo disco que eu escuto do Nick Cave, e cara, ele me soa muito pretensioso, pqp. Tudo tem que ser épico, músicas grandiosas, arranjamentos harmônicos massivos, a voz tem que ser igual ao do Cid Moreira narrando a Bíblia, não dá não cara. Sem saco, pelo menos por enquanto com esse tipo de proposta.

Amazing double album. O Children is a classic and an amazing way to close the record. This is a record that imo represents what the Bad Seeds do best as a band. Gothic blues at its peak.

i just feel uncomfortable listening to him. his voice creeps me out and some of these songs are the product of a disturbed mind. why so many nick cave albums???? is there no one else we could’ve given a chance??? had to have him on here 3 times already??

Oh great a double album of Nick Cave for a bank holiday Monday . The opening track made me think of a raucous interpretation of Blue Moon for some reason and i actually enjoyed how rocky it was. ‘Nature Boy’ is reasonably enjoyable, but there’s something about the album as a whole that i just can’t connect with. The Lyre of orpheus leaves you in no doubt Anais Mitchell’s songs were the Orpheus Eurydice songs best to form a good musical around (and just better songs). It offers a much gentler sound to Abattoir Blues and is far less enjoyable. Supernaturally eventually injects some much needed energy but overall the second side/album is just a bit drab and uninspired to justify the need to make this a double album

I’ve heard worse Nick Cave album’s on this, but I’ve heard better. It’s far too long, it’s pretty odd in places, but there were moments where I though “this isn’t so bad”.

Oh how I wish this wasn't a double album. Were this a sensible length, this would have been getting a very high mark. I really enjoyed Abattoir Blues with the exception of a couple of the tracks - for me it's hit rate was far in excess of The Lyre of Orpheus. That being said the actual song The Lyre of Orpheus was great - it made me laugh multiple times, particularly the fake-out 'fuck' in the lyric "Orpheus looked at his instrument, And he gave the wire a pluck, He heard a sound so beautiful, He gasped and said "Oh my God"". I have said before that while doing this that Nick Cave has joined my list of people who objectively can't sing yet it doesn't matter to me for some reason, and this double album cements that. The gospel choir juxtaposed with his voice was hugely enjoyable for me. If I were just rating the first disc it'd be a 4, but the second disc (and honestly the fact it's so long it requires a second disc at all) drags that down. It's just far more moody and plodding, which I don't enjoy as much as the energetic first disc. As a result this is getting the same mark as the two previous Nick Cave albums on the list despite me feeling like that's possibly not a fair result. 3/5

No

Not as good as other nick cave albums. Slightly more easy listening than others

I had heard O Children before (in Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part One lol) but that was the only song I’d heard going into this, and that is a song I love so that boded well. Anyway I LOVED this. It felt epic and inspiring. It’s definitely something you could put on and let play. Interestingly I didn’t like the two songs this album is named after but I liked basically every other song and want to hear more. FIVE STARS!

For an album that has an ode to writer’s block, this sure has… a lot of ideas. Honestly if this was just the second disc I could see this being 5 stars. There’s just a lot of fat to sift through to get to the meat. But for sure lots of wonderful arrangements and heartfelt poetry somewhere in here!

It wasn't bad, it was just boring. Perfectly cromulent background music but nothing to get excited about.

Vocally sounds like Leonard Cohen, but sings more than talks; really enjoyed being taken to 'church.'

*Rehabilitation means the surrender of the self.* --Mark Renton, in Irvine Welsh's *Trainspotting* Of all the things Nick Cave could've made in 2004, a seeming ode to his own insignificance wouldn't have necessarily been anyone's first guess. Yet that seems to be the theme throughout the first half of this in particular, as he fetes Johnny Cash's superior musicianship ("Let the Bells Ring"), compares himself unfavorably to his artistic heroes ("There She Goes, My Beautiful World"), and apes Tom Waits in a way that makes clear that he wants you to know that's exactly what he's doing ("Hiding All Away"). I mean, I suppose it's not necessarily news that a notorious misanthrope might have some self-loathing - but still, this seems a bit of character. It was only on the back half of this, as Cave was singing about Orpheus sitting alone in his back shed with various tools in hand, that I started to put the pieces together. This reads like an extended farewell love letter to Cave's former, more overtly self-destructive self, personified as a seductress and also (I would argue) as heroin. "It's just history repeating itself, and babe, you turn me on," he sings, calling back to the Sixties meaning of "turn on." "Easy Money" is a snapshot of life as a junkie of affluence, meeting up with his disheveled-looking dealer to lament how "all the things for which my heart yearns give joy in diminishing returns." And it's Cave's final abandonment of self - not just his addictions but the entire Dark Dylan, tortured-artist mythos in which they'd been wrapped up - that leads him to castigate himself so. On "Nature Boy" he walks on the beach with his beloved and breaks down as she points at something - their child, presumably - and asks if he'd ever seen such a beautiful thing. Against the relief of that beauty, all his pretensions feel like vanity; there is work to do in his family - work he should have been doing all along, and has neglected. And that's why he has to abandon those pretensions; on the finale "O Children" he begs the titular children to "forgive us now for what we've done, it started out as a bit of fun." Musically, this is strong, albeit a bit repetitive given its length; Cave is clearly enamored with the choir he's summoned to accompany him. But the real meat here is in hearing a man be honest with himself. It isn't perfect but I was moved nonetheless.

Not that familiar with Nick Cave's work, but I liked it. Didn't even mind the length.

So so bad

God damn Cave. I actually really liked this album

I didn't hate it as much as the others. Still crap.

I didn't want to kill myself after this one. Good job Nicky boy, I always believed in you

Took a few restarts but really enjoyed it by the end. Also great to see an Aussie in this list

Op zich een mooi album. Soms wat saai, soms echt mooie nummers. Wel erg lang. Ik vind het laatste nummer echt prachtig, maar dat komt door Harry Potter haha

A rock, blues, and gospel infused album. I never really listened to Nick Cave and was pleasantly surprised.

side one good focused and fun. side two more hit or miss with at least one skip (“hey! ho!”).

top

Opzich okayish Nick Cave

Deux albums en un, premier un peu gothic rock, pas trop ma tasse de thé. le deuxième plus blues rock. Ca s'écoute. Chanteur prédominant avec une voix suave, j'aime pas. Ptn j'ai réécouté c'est vraiment pas top. +1 Pour la multitude de style

Wow! Is this Nick Cave’s best? Possibly! First disc (Abattoir Blues) is incredible. The second is very good, lot more slow and lyrical. I’d say a 4.5 in total but I’ll round up for sheer consistency across 80 mins of music.

Veldig engasjert Nick Cave er smittsomt, men klarer ikke helt å bli like frelst som han. Snill firer.

Manges favoritt nick cave, men får selv aldri helt tak på denne. Høydepunktene er store. Men flere av de i andre NC plater

Tok litt tid før jeg ble overbevist, men dette va fine saker. Litt pompøs og gospel, blandet med en litt skitten NC funker. Minus for lengde, pluss for Breathless som er en av de koseligste sangene jeg vet.

Dobbeltalbum uten skikkelige høydepunkter. Heller mot det sakrale – og det kjedelige.

It was fine. Liked some song and could see the influence Nick Cave had on some music I like.

Nice Cave has an amazing voice but most of the songs on Abattoir Blues sounded so similar. Loved The Lyre of Orpheus better. The songs on that album varied enough to be able to tell it was a different song. Favorite tracks: Hiding All Away, Let the Bells Ring, Babe You Turn Me On, and Carry Me.

Yeah, not a fan. This the second or third Nick Cave and I find the music to be dull.

Good album, very moody.

the great service

Rocky, not good enough, repetitive. Liked the bassline in some of the songs, i still can´t match with Nick's voice. Songs are too monotonous. Like the gospel choir though.

Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds 2004 Genres: Rock Styles: Alternative Rock, Indie Rock 1. Get Ready for Love (★★★⯨☆) -Contexto: Una especie de sermón gospel sobre la llegada del amor y de una fuerza divina que está a punto de irrumpir en el mundo. Cave mezcla devoción sincera con ironía hacia la religiosidad vacía: el amor puede ser entendido tanto como amor romántico como una forma de redención espiritual. 2. Cannibal's Hymn (★★★⯨☆) -Contexto: Presenta el deseo y el amor mediante la metáfora del canibalismo. Amar implica hambre, posesión y consumo, hasta el punto de que lo romántico y lo violento se vuelven indistinguibles. El "himno" del título convierte estos impulsos animales en una especie de ceremonia religiosa. 3. Hiding All Away (★★★★★) -Contexto: Una visión apocalíptica del juicio de Dios. El narrador percibe un mundo dominado por la violencia, el pecado y la corrupción y espera una confrontación definitiva con una fuerza divina. Sin embargo, la canción termina asociando la verdadera ley de Dios con el amor, no simplemente con el castigo. -Fav 4. Messiah Ward (★★★⯨☆) -Contexto: Una escena casi surrealista en la que una multitud de muertos atraviesa el paisaje mientras el narrador contempla la devastación junto a una mujer. El "pabellón del Mesías" funciona como imagen de un mundo enfermo y lleno de muertos que parece estar esperando algún tipo de salvación. 5. There She Goes, My Beautiful World (★★★★☆) -Contexto: Cave habla de su propia dificultad para crear mientras observa cómo otros escritores y artistas produjeron grandes obras incluso en circunstancias terribles. La canción contrapone el bloqueo creativo con la posibilidad de alcanzar una especie de inmortalidad mediante el arte. También plantea si el artista debe crear belleza o enfrentarse directamente a la miseria del mundo. 6. Nature Boy (★★★★☆) -Contexto: Una reflexión sobre la belleza y la violencia que Cave contempla desde su infancia. El narrador recuerda mirar las noticias y encontrarse con asesinatos y atrocidades, mientras su padre le enseña a no apartar la mirada. Frente a ese horror aparece la naturaleza, las flores y la belleza como una posible respuesta a la brutalidad del mundo. 7. Abattoir Blues (★★★⯨☆) -Contexto: El mundo aparece como un enorme matadero: extinción masiva, muerte, hipocresía y destrucción mientras todo parece disolverse. Cave combina esta visión apocalíptica con humor absurdo y referencias banales de la vida cotidiana, creando una sátira sobre la capacidad humana de seguir viviendo normalmente mientras el mundo parece estar ardiendo. 8. Let the Bells Ring (★★★★☆) -Contexto: Una canción de duelo y homenaje a Johnny Cash, cuya muerte en 2003 afectó profundamente a Cave. La muerte de Cash se convierte también en una reflexión sobre la desaparición de grandes artistas y sobre la relación entre quienes siguen creando y quienes ya dejaron su obra atrás. 9. Fable of the Brown Ape (★★★☆☆) -Contexto: Una pequeña historia grotesca y deliberadamente absurda sobre un simio. Más que esconder una gran alegoría, Cave parece jugar con la estructura de las fábulas y con su propio gusto por el humor negro y lo surrealista. Es probablemente la canción del álbum que menos necesita ser "descifrada". 10. The Lyre of Orpheus (★★★★☆) -Contexto: Cave reinventa el mito de Orfeo como una farsa grotesca. Orfeo construye una lira cuya música resulta tan poderosa que destruye todo a su alrededor, incluyendo a Eurídice, hasta que termina en el infierno. La canción subvierte la imagen tradicional del artista capaz de vencer a la muerte mediante el arte y convierte al propio arte en una fuerza absurda y destructiva. 11. Breathless (★★★⯨☆) -Contexto: Una celebración casi pura de la naturaleza y de estar vivo. Animales, plantas, viento, agua y paisajes aparecen como algo maravilloso y lleno de energía. Después de la oscuridad del primer disco, funciona como una afirmación de que el mundo también puede ser hermoso sin necesidad de justificar esa belleza. 12. Babe, You Turn Me On (★★☆☆☆) -Contexto: Una canción de deseo sexual y atracción física que mezcla romanticismo con humor y crudeza. Cave no intenta separar el amor espiritual del deseo corporal: presenta el enamoramiento como algo simultáneamente tierno, sensual, animal y obsesivo. 13. Easy Money (★★☆☆☆) -Contexto: Una canción más ligera sobre el deseo de conseguir dinero fácilmente y vivir sin preocupaciones. Frente a las grandes cuestiones religiosas y existenciales del álbum, el narrador se refugia en una fantasía mucho más mundana: tener suficiente dinero para no preocuparse por nada. Su ligereza funciona también como contraste irónico con la muerte y el apocalipsis que dominan el resto del disco. 14. Supernaturally (★★★★☆) -Contexto: El enamoramiento es presentado como una fuerza sobrenatural que se apodera de la persona. El deseo parece algo que escapa completamente al control racional y convierte a la persona amada en una presencia casi mágica. 15. Spell (★★★☆☆) -Contexto: El amor aparece como un hechizo. El narrador está completamente encantado por otra persona y encuentra en esa relación una forma de escapar de la frialdad y soledad del mundo. Es una de las expresiones más suaves y románticas del álbum. 16. Carry Me (★★★★★) -Contexto: Una petición de ayuda ante el agotamiento y el peso de la existencia. El narrador pide que alguien lo cargue cuando ya no puede continuar por sí mismo, mientras aparecen imágenes religiosas de pecado, violencia, sacrificio y redención. Puede entenderse como una plegaria a Dios o como una súplica humana por alguien que pueda sostenernos. -Fav 17. O Children (★★★☆☆) -Contexto: Cave se dirige a los niños de una generación que hereda un mundo destruido por los adultos. La canción mezcla culpa, muerte, pérdida de inocencia y esperanza religiosa mediante la imagen de un tren que avanza hacia el Reino. Después de todo el apocalipsis del álbum, termina siendo una canción sorprendentemente esperanzadora: pese a la muerte y a los errores de quienes vinieron antes, todavía existe la posibilidad de liberación y redención. -TOTAL = ★★★⯨☆ (3,56) -Debería ser un 4, pero sinceramente para mí es un 3 porque no me terminó de convencer en ningún momento pese a sonar sólidamente bien.

Wasn't expecting to see this band on the list even though I've like one of their other albums. This one is a good but a little long and doesn't have anything that stuck out to me as much as red right hand does

Great soundstage, very unique sounding album. Something of a cross between Warren Zevon and gospel. Clear lyrics, with vivid imagery, but often abstract messaging.

Love O Children but the rest isn’t really my cup of tea

I like Nick Cave but only in small doses.

This is the third Nick Cave album I've had to listen to, there are five in the book! Much like the others it's OK but unremarkable.

'O Children' and 'Get Ready for Love' I already known... Just Oh! Amazing.

not a Nick Cave head, not even a little bit

Very much a classic. I enjoy the mix of rock epic and gospel background vocals. I do have to say that nick cave’s singing style gets a little tiring and repetitive for me after 10 songs though…

Muy largo

meh.

Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds - Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus (2004) Nick Cave is a man of pain; he can channel emotional pain into magnificent music. When his long-time companion Blixa Bargeld unexpectedly left the Bad Seeds, the band had to completely reorganize. They holed up in an old jazz studio in Paris. The result is a masterpiece in two parts. A double album with two different approaches. The first half sounds unusually powerful, raw, and wildly noisy, drawing on a dynamic, almost gospel-tinged garage-rock sound driven by propulsive drums. Side two, by contrast, strikes a more traditional, darker, melodic, and ballad-like tone, often centering on the piano and mythological references—though the song "Supernaturally" does build rapidly and energetically into a soaring, anthemic climax. While other tracks on the album are more mythic or steeped in the blues, "Supernaturally" erupts with frenetic energy, mirroring the psychological state of being completely overwhelmed by an emotion. Overall, the lyrics cover a wide spectrum—ranging from humor, myth, and religion to existential questions about love, violence, and art. I find it incredibly difficult to single out any one song; this is an album that invites you to pause, look inward, and reflect on your own life. Listening to it in the evening with a glass of red wine—rather than in the morning, as I did—is perhaps more fitting, as the music truly seems to seep right into your soul. I’ve done exactly that on a few occasions. That said, I do want to highlight "O Children," the epic, nearly seven-minute closing track of the double album. This melancholic, deeply moving song later achieved worldwide fame through a Harry Potter film. The line "Forgive us now for what we've done" feels like an apology from the adult world to the youth, who are left to bear the burden of a broken world. I bought the record the moment it came out. It is a masterpiece!

Bom álbum, embora tenha me parecido longo. Gosto da banda. Ter Oh! Children foi positivo porque sempre tive curiosidade pelo álbum. 3.8/5

nice

A genre unto themselves. A double album that covers a lot of ground, experimental at times, and never boring. While most artists would be coasting 20 odd years in, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds are as inventive and creative as ever on this album. A worthy choice to this list.

I like Nick Cave's sound, but I had never delved too deeply into his catalog. This album is dramatic, and feels a little long at times. It has some cool moments, but the song Lyre of Orpheus puts off a big "You're A Mean One, Mr Grincch" energy that took me out of whatever they were trying to do here.

I just had to slog through The Boatman’s Call. Why am I being tortured with more Nick Cave so soon?!?!?!! One and a half hours! This record is more interesting than The Boatman’s Call, I’ll give it that. Some rollicking guitars and piano. Those choirs! Warren Ellis is a gem - his violin on Spell was my favourite part of this double album. But it’s still a Nick Cave (and the Bad Seeds) record. Any amount of Nick is too much. I handed The Boatman’s Call a 1/5, this one can have a 2/5. It’s really not for me.

I'll be the first to tell you that Nick Cave is one of my favorite artists of all-time. Seen him and the Bad Seeds many times in concert (as well as his project Grinderman), and am honestly surprised about the albums that were selected for the book. No "Let Love In", no "Dig, Lazarus, Dig!!!", no "Push the Sky Away", but instead this album, "The Boatman's Call", and "Ghosteen"?! I guess I shouldn't complain. This list doesn't necessarily serve the fanbase of most artists included, but rather the larger scope of pop music listeners trying to broader their horizons. If that's the case, so be it, this is a good start for people trying to get into Cave. First, as several reviewers have already pointed out, this album was really an amazing turnaround for him. Blixa Bargeld had left the band after the really disappointing "Nocturama", meaning that the sound was inevitably going to change. Still, he still had founding noisemaker Mick Harvey with him, as well as Warren Ellis and other Bad Seeds that have been mostly with the band since. An exploration of many genres can be found here: pop, lounge, gospel, R&B, blues, chain gang chants, noise, and more. It's however the most commercially friendly that Cave has ever sounded (unless you count the "The Good Son" as the first). I've played this album a lot driving up and down the country, and it grooves really well. Melodic, textured, abrasive, and recently, I got to see a lot of these songs played live with a gospel trio - everything sounded great! The disappointment is probably with the songs that get a tad repetitive at times, as well as with the album's length - it's really two albums in one, but could be overwhelming to new listeners - but also with his lyrics. Cave is definitely famous as a piano crooner and rock showman to many, but he also is a master storyteller and lyricist, and here there's more of the abstract rather than the concrete, with simpler metaphors and imagery than what he's usually capable of doing. As a fan, I enjoy this overall (more the 2nd album over the first), but it explores songs that I wouldn't normally listen to often if it wasn't performed by Cave. As a Cave effort, I give it 3.5 stars, but for the list, a solid 4 from my end.

Great album, and one of a small number of double records that deserve to be that long. While this isn't a massive departure from previous work, it felt much more mature and he introduces a lot it now flourishes that he somehow gets to all work. I particularly liked the use of the backing singers. Doesn't hurt that this was the start of a late career run that's arguably still going

I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. Pleasantly surprised.

Solid

I wasn’t expecting so much energy right out the gate but I kind of love it

Great album with standout tracks

My favorite Nick Cave album. A worthy inclusion.

Wow. Just wow. Gorgeous record.

Really enjoyed the bluesy punchiness of this

Fells like two albums cut and shut together…. Albeit pretty high quality albums think I actually prefer the more mellow stuff on side 2 4.1

It's great. It's a double album so it has to keep momentum and I think it does even if side 1 is slightly stronger than side 2. One of Nick Cave's many 5 star albums.

Sorry, but I’ve always thought that Nick is overrated.

I do love some Nick Cave, but this one is quite long and I prefer other albums better

Nick Cave you wonderful human being, this is nothing but amazing! I hear so many bands you have influenced with this record, and the vastness of genre that doesn't feel too wide sure is admirable. Only listened to Disc 1 so far so even if "Lyre of Orpheus" disappoints me this album is worth a 5-star rating!

Nick Cave is certainly an acquired taste and it has taken me years to start vibing with his music. This album certainly helped and it may be a great overview of what to expect for The Bad Seeds. It has the darkness all around, but it’s also very rock and roll, except when it’s pretentious and deep, which often feels even better. What can be a curse or a bliss, depending on your opinions about Mr. Cave, is the fact it’s a double album. You can splurge on it and get lost in the whole or try separating the experience. I personally enjoyed both options and that’s what made me appreciate The Lyre of Orpheus more. I’m still not completely overtaken by love for Nick Cave, but that was a nice first real date.

Nick Cave always reminds me of my mum when she lived in her little flat and would listen to Nick Cave a lot. So he in turn ends up reminding me of mushroom risotto. Excessive amounts of mushroom risotto. But I like this album. And it also reminded me I still haven't checked out the TV adaption of the Death of Bunny Munro. Didn't think much of the book when I read it, but perhaps it's one of the rare ones where the screen adaption is actually better. Like Stephen King. Terribly books, but they make excellent movies. Sorry Steve.

It's fine.

385/1089 my 4th nick cave album from this project and it’s a two-sider, interesting quite like the ending to Hiding All Away Messiah Ward is pretty excellent, LOVE the groovy vibe and cadence. The energy in My Beautiful World is so infectious and fun. Nature Boy is another HIT, this is a great trio omg Let the Bells Ring was really nice as was Easy Money Supernaturally is more my speed, loving this one, spell is groovy too Really enjoyed this album, think it’s def my fave of Cave’s faves: Messiah Ward, My Beautiful World, Nature Boy, Supernaturally, Spell 84/100

Enjoyment: 7/10 Replayability: 6/10 Cohesion: 7/10 Flow/Pacing: 7/10 Artistic Merit: 7/10 Weighted Average: 6.75/10 Review: This was much better than our first Nick Cave album. There was good pacing between the high energy tracks like There She Goes, My Beautiful World and the slower ones like Breathless. So even though there's great range in this album, it still could've been slimmed down to make a better end product. Liked Song(s): Get Ready for Love, There She Goes, My Beautiful World, Nature Boy, Abattoir Blues, The Lyre of Orpheus, Breathless, O Children Disliked Song(s): (None) Recommend? Yes Heard Before? No

So glad to have gotten Nick Cave, but not my favorite album by him.

Not my thing

I'm not a big fan of Nick Cave, but overall it's a good album.

So long and so boring

It feels like I should have liked this album, it had a lot of the ingredients I like in a good album. But something g just didn't quite feel right

This is not a fun experience if you don't enjoy Nick Cave's music and/or voice. Funny timing after having just seen Hadestown though.

Great album!

Didn’t like it too much. His voice was kinda annoying but the music was good. 4/10

Some pretty good stuff in here. But by the end it’s just out of steam hitting repeats

This is really long but really really good.

Actually pretty shocked that I really liked a lot of this after giving a different nick cave record a 1/5 two days ago. Musically, I thought this album was excellent. Still don’t love his voice and his lyrics are rough in a lot of spots. But this kept me invested. It’s too long, it would have been a really great 60 minute record. But I’ll give credit where it’s due. 4/5.

There were a few good songs in the first half, but then it got super boring.. This album had a promising start... thank you woohoo ❤️

This is my first Nick Cave album. Theatrical without being overwrought. The music is wonderful scaffolding for Nick's voice, which is luscious and deep and rich. He's intelligent without being stuffy or overbearing. I mean, it takes serious songwriting to use "constabulary" without being silly about it. "The Lyre of Orpheus" is wonderful and hilarious. I will say I enjoyed the album more than I thought I would, but I'm not coming back to it. Having heard it the first time, I'm not overly worried that this is a Dimery darling. I mean, he is, but he's also got talent. Unlike the Beatles. My Rating: 4/5

I wasn’t totally sold on the first track, but as the album went on, I really got it. Wow. Too many good tracks to reasonably list here. Soothing, dark, & gloomy.

My first Nick Cave album. I'm aware that there are many others on the list. An artist with many fanboys, a lot of whom are also music critics. I'm not one of his fanboys and I just don't get the adulation. I can't sing along to these tunes and I can't dance to them. Am I simply supposed to enjoy the lyrics? Is it poetry? Yeah, I suppose he paints a picture with words. They're just not the sort of pictures I want hanging on my wall. How is he any different to Des O'Connor or Andy Williams? Similar voices. I guess Des was never big on the murder ballads. Nope.

Considering how tricky I found some NC&TBS albums previously, this was surprisingly accessible, even catchy. Ironically, that almost counts against it, but I still enjoyed listening to this.

I think i liked the Orpheus song least :[

I listened to Abattoir Blues before, after, and during intermission of, a performance of the musical Grumpy Old Men. I listened to The Lyre of Orpheus as I was resting alone on the couch late at night, in between rewatching two parts of Jon Bois' History of the Minnesota Vikings. This double album was immediately far more energetic than I was expecting based on my experience with the much dourer Murder Ballads. Where that album stayed committed to its folk ballad aesthetics, this album sees the band unleashed from such constraints. Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus is a raucous alt rock album with religious undertones, especially found in the choral chant backing vocals and Nick Cave's delivery sounding like a fire and brimstone preacher at a pentacostal church. His lyrics as well continue to balance between nature-oriented poetry ruminating on the creation of art and despicably evil storytelling focused on suffering and pain. This is all delivered with Cave's uniquely gruff and expressive voice, sounding like the villain in an animated movie. Instrumentally, with its heavy drum hits and growling guitars, is just some deliciously filthy rock music intercut with some of the sweetest and most romantic songs I've ever heard. Murder Ballads was already a lovely introduction to the songwriting sensibilities of Nick Cave, but hearing him in his natural soundscape, away from the confines of such a specific sonic concept, manages to be an even better experience than that album was. With how wildly prolific Nick Cave is as a musician, if even a fraction of his remaining work reaches similar heights, I would feel incredibly lucky. Highlights: Get Ready for Love, Cannibal's Hymn, Hiding All Away, Messiah Ward, There She Goes, My Beautiful World, Nature Boy, Abattoir Blues, Fable of the Brown Ape, The Lyre of Orpheus, Breathless, Babe, You Turn Me On, Easy Money, Carry Me, O Children

I had not listened to Nick Cave before. What a shame! It feels like he is speaking directly to me. I think this will need several replays before I get to the bottom of it. I added “There She Goes, My Beautiful World” to my playlist.

A consistent delight, with hilarious lyrics.

Awesome album. I discovered Nick Cave through this journey, and I’m a massive fan. This is another huge hit for me. Every single is good.

Discos duplos são difíceis de manter a qualidade o tempo todo. Mas Cave e seus Bad Seeds conseguem, sendo criativos o tempo todo, com músicas bem construídas. Nem se sente o tempo passar, tendo momentos exuberantes. Esse, sim, é pra escutar antes de morrer mesmo.

Surprised this wasn’t bad considering it’s Nick Cabe

Fable of the brown ape was weird. At that point I kinda stopped listening. It was blues but an odd version to me.

so many of my favorite artists adore nick cave, and i always hope that this time around i'll get it. intellectually i see the greatness of it, yet it left me unfazed

Oddly, this one was hard to evaluate. I had to relisten to the first half to really appreciate what was on there, while I loved what was on the second half right away. It's long, but it's consistent, and worth the re-evaluation.

The second Nick Cave album I've got in 3 days. I was not ready for this considering how I felt about the last one and the fact it was 82 minutes long! I was pleasantly surprised to find it is a much easier listen despite it's long runtime. There's no desperate attempt to sound edgy and some of the songs were really catchy. 'Nature Boy' was a stand out for me. 7/10

251020 13:00 4.5

Eh

I may not be as big a Cave fan as I used to be, but this is still an excellent album. The tour for this album was one of my earliest gigs, and one I think of fondly. Favourite tracks: Messiah Ward / Spell

This album was just super weird. Some good weird, some bad weird. The main weirdness was the lyrics, particularly in tracks like "Fable of the Brown Ape" - I just ... didn't get it, and it made me weirdly uncomfortable. Overall this album made pretty decent background music and some tracks were an absolute jam. "Supernaturally" stood out to me in particular. Not sure I'm going to go out of my way to listen to more Nick Cave, but I'd say there's some possible playlist submissions here for me, but also a bunch of skips. Bit torn between a 3 or a 4 so going to settle on a 4 on the basis that 3 feels like a cop-out.

I kinda went in with a dread of the album length. The 1st song came on and it was just rocky blues so I was just planning on letting it's do it's thing. Then Hiding All Away came on, the occasional dissonance and the raw lyrics forced itself upon me and I started paying attention. The rest of the album was a whirl of dark lyrics, avantguardy backings and a dash of pretentiousness (which I love). Every song was different but it felt super coherent. His vocals range from hot to passionate to pained. The fact that 90% of this album is written solely by Nick Cave is astounding. I was sad when it was over. Low 5

I was excited when this came up, because I've always intended to give Cave a good listen and never got round to it. A little long - double albums are a continuing source of annoyance on this list - but it's very much whetted my appetite.

It's solid, but it gets a bit repetitive and also some really off pointing lyrics at times, specifically Nicki Minaj. Also, fuck Nicki Minaj.

some good, some not so good.

7/10 I’ve always found Nick Cave quite an intriguing character. He’s obviously a very talented musician and songwriter, but he’s also one of those people that unapologetically leans heavily into his weirder side. When those aspects collide, it can make for some incredibly interesting and engaging music. In all honesty, my personal preference for his work is when he leans a little further into the darker side of his persona, but I can also appreciate it when he weaves that more deftly into songs that have an edge of menace or brooding tension. Either way, he’s definitely a character and one of those people that the music world should be glad to have among their ranks. Without people like Cave, Björk and Zappa pushing at the boundaries, would we be where we are today? This album does fall a little on the normal side of Nick Cave’s eccentricities for my tastes, but the quality of a lot of the songs are undeniable. In reality, it’s almost like two separate albums slapped together into a single release and, while there are some links and crossovers in sound between the two, I think they may have actually worked slightly better if delivered separately. The sound here is interesting, in that it brings in the sound of contemporary bands like the White Stripes and the Black Keys and combines that with a slightly more orchestral edge and a twist of gospel to create a very early 2000’s take on gospel blues, blended with modern rock. The second half is a more stripped back affair, by and large, that dances more into elements of folk, with moments of whimsy mixed in with those Nick Cave special moments of darkness. If I had to pick a preferred disc of the two, I’d probably lean towards this second one, just because it dips into that weirdness a little more. The blend of tones and production styles across both discs add a depth and quality to the recording that elevates it above a more run-of-the-mill rock production, and that little twist of Nick Cave magic throws in the edge of eccentricity and danger that permeates the record. It’s good stuff, and the mix of songs helps to create an interesting journey through dark, brooding numbers to grand, uplifting songs. Tracks like Hiding All Away, The Lyre of Orpheus and Babe, You Turn Me On are highlights, but there are moments when things just become a bit too… normal for a Nick Cave record. In truth, the biggest problem with this album is its length. It’s always difficult to make a double album that manages to maintain a high level for its full duration, and this is another example of a record that, had it been chopped down to 12 songs, and indulged a bit more in its weirdness, rather than dipping back into more straight compositions, could have been excellent. Unfortunately, the length means that it does drag a tiny bit in places, so isn’t able to maintain the heights that it does touch on in various places. Get Ready For Love - A decent enough start. I’d say there’s a fairly White Stripes sound to this, although it’s obviously got Nick Cave’s distinctive vocal to pin it down as one of his works. There are some cool riffs, some decent dynamic range through different movements and that slight edge of madness that is typical of Cave’s work. The depth of the production is cool, actually, with the backing vocals adding a really three dimensional aspect to the sound. Cannibal's Hymn - It takes a little while to kick in, but when we get to the groove about a minute and a half into this, it really starts to kick. There’s some nice bass work in this and some cool sonic trickery to build an interesting atmosphere with bits of ear candy. As a song, it’s not the most exciting, but the production does lift it a little, and the vibe is decent. Hiding All Away - Again, there’s a touch of White Stripes about bits of this, but the crazed delivery from Cave dominates more than the opener. The groove is solid, and there’s some cool additions to the rhythm from the guitar. It’s got more atmosphere and vibe, mixed with a bluesy swagger and some nice grit and drive. The backing vocals are great too, and add a slightly poppy edge, which feels quite disconcerting set against the more obtuse tone of the rest of the track. The cacophony of the end when everything kicks in at once is great too. Messiah Ward - A nice slow burn of a track with an excellent groove. It’s stripped back and subtle, but there’s something really effective about it. There’s excellent instrumental work, particularly from the guitar and piano, but it’s all deftly delivered and doesn’t dominate, while still adding interest and range over the rumbling undercurrent of the core track. The production is excellently handled and well balanced too. A really great track. There She Goes, My Beautiful World - This is quite a straightforward rock anthem. It’s really well written and executed, with a great central hook. The pace and drive is great and the instrumental work is really good. It’s perhaps a touch too straight for me, and while it has a slight edge of Cave’s weirdness, it feels just a little bit normal. That being said, I do like it and the depth of the composition is great. Nature Boy - Another solid pop/gospel rock effort now. It’s rhythmically engaging and has great drive. The melodies are meandering during the verses, but tighten up during the chorus, when we get some nice harmonic depth. The lead playing from the guitar and piano during various sections are excellent. It’s another really solid track, and I’ve enjoyed it, tapping my feet along the whole way through, but I just want an extra bit of weirdness from Cave that’s not quite there. Abattoir Blues - This album has really good grooves. Instrumentally, this is far more stripped back and all of the pace is in the drums. Beyond that it’s a slow, considered effort.It’s all about the vibe, which is really good. There’s not a vast amount of complexity here, but it’s brilliantly executed. Another good one. Let The Bells Ring - And now we’re back to something a bit more normal, by Nick Cave standards. It’s not bad, exactly, and there’s some great performances here, but it feels a bit safe and routine. Perhaps even a bit bland. Some of the melodic moments are nice enough, but it doesn’t completely connect for me. Fable Of The Brown Ape - We’re leaning back more towards Cave’s more weird inclinations now. This is subtle and brooding, with some interesting sound design choices and a slightly menacing edge. The slow groove is nice, pinned down well by the strolling bass line. The punches of stronger dynamic are really well delivered and add an extra depth to the track. Good stuff. The Lyre Of Orpheus - Moving on to the second suite on the record, this is lovely, brooding and menacing stuff. The addition of the backing vocals in the chorus is excellent and the sound design and use of staccato, shifting elements that feel like they’re moving around your head builds this disconcerting and nervy feeling to the song. Nick Cave’s on top vocal form too, sounding like a man you wouldn’t want to turn your back on. Great track. Breathless - A slightly more uplifting folk-rock style track now, with a very 90s indie sounding chorus. It’s melodically pretty good, and the guitar playing is nice, if unspectacular. There’s some good work from the bass part too. It’s not the most interesting of compositions and lacks that edge that I typically expect from a Nick Cave track, so feels a bit normal and perhaps a little bland. Babe, You Turn Me On - Nick Cave’s a weird guy. Artistically, that’s a fantastic asset, and this song is a fine example of why. It’s a very well composed and executed song, sounding very beautiful and sweet, but with lyrics that twist that purity in a very odd direction. The orchestration is restrained and every part dances around beautifully, yet he throws in these weird little edges with lyrics like "I put one hand on your round ripe heart, And the other down your panties”. It’s a solid song with that edge of weirdness that drags it away from being saccharine. Easy Money - This is a sombre and pretty effort that strolls up and down its scale in a way that is in some ways repetitive, but does throw enough slight changes and variations to keep things fairly fresh. Rhythmically, it’s on the plodding side, but that does fit into the atmosphere that the production and composition create, so it works well. I’d say it’s a smidge too long, but it’s very pretty and enjoyable nonetheless. Supernaturally - A great change of pace now. It’s fast and intense and lifts the folky edge of this part of the record into something heavier, while retaining that same core vibe and instrumentation. It’s got an irresistible groove, and some really excellent playing. The rhythmic focus of the piano, bass, guitar and drums is excellent, but the violin work adds a flowing top note to it that superbly creates a range to the texture of the song. Great track. Spell - The shuffled rhythm of this one is really nice. The slightly discordant and rhythmically disconnected string parts add an air of edginess to the sound that’s an effective vibe builder. It’s very atmospheric and the sound world that it creates is very compelling and hypnotic. Musically, it does edge on being a little repetitive, but as a hypnotic, pulsing track, it manages to use that repetition pretty well. Carry Me - There’s a bit more of a gospel edge to this that calls back to the first record. The cloud of arpeggiated piano work that drifts in and out of focus in the background creates an interesting tonal bed that I like. The orchestration feels quite dense, at least in part due to that. It’s not the most exciting song on the album, and does get a bit tired by the end, but it’s still good and probably would feel more valuable on a shorter record, but now that we’re knocking on an hour and a quarter, things need to be excellent to stand out. O Children - A lovely track to finish us off. It’s slow-paced and considered, but there are so many great moments in there, from some of the piano runs that tinkle in and out from the mix, and the excellent gospel choir work, especially as it builds towards the end. The rhythmic blend is solid, and the juxtaposition of the clean, smooth backing vocals and Cave’s slightly gritty deliver is beautiful. This one is all about the mix and the orchestration, because musically, the themes are fairly similar throughout, but it takes them in different directions thanks to the arrangement and production. Really nice.

Not for me

Hm, not my favorite.

nice

ich liebe die background vocals greek mythology mentioned?? manche sind ruhiger und manche schneller, also insgesamt guter mix HEY LITTLE TRAIN WAIT FOR ME

This was my first listen to anything by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds. Honestly, I hadn't heard of them, except for a buddy of mine who mentioned going to see them in Chicago. I can see where some of the reviews are coming from with "boring". There aren't a lot of dynamic shifts in terms of feel on the album. And it admittedly won't be for everybody. As a new listener, I was hooked at the energy of the first track, "Get Ready For Love". That track gave me The Doors vibes, which is not a bad thing. Other tracks in the double album gave me vibes of other musicians I enjoy. Abattoir Blues gave me Hozier vibes, or maybe Jack White vibes. Overall, another reviewer said that Nick Cave feels familiar, like you've heard his music, but haven't. This was a time commitment, being a double album. Personally, I liked it and thought there was enough distinction between tracks like There She Goes, My Beautiful World, and Let the Bells Ring and Breathless, etc.

Ass

Pass me that lovely little gun

My first time listening to a Nick Cave album in full, and I have to say that this was a very fun experience. This one gave me some proper Tom Waits vibes in places, with the storytelling of Leonard Cohen thrown in for good measure. Proper big sound for the first half, before dialling it down for the second half. More of this please. Favourite track: There She Goes, My Beautiful World Least favourite track: Spell

One really great song, some good songs.

Really like this one absolute banger and listenable throughout

I think I like this album more every time I listen. It made me want to listen to the whole Nick Cave discography.

Just no. I'm done. Nick Cave can have one damn album that must be listened to. Literally every one of his songs is interchangeable. Pick your favorite depressing story; that's the album, listen to it, and you're done. Now you've heard all you need to of Nick Cave. If you want more, go find it, but don't subject the rest of us to this nonsense.

I hear some National and other bands I like in this. Not my favourite voice. This is a 3.5.

Nick Cave and Co kicking ass across a double album, hell baby damn yes!

Bombastic, gospel-infused rock is normally associated with Jack White, but this time it’s the Australian incarnation. As a double album, Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus presents two distinct identities. Abattoir Blues is the more immediate of the two : gospel-soaked, rockier and, by Cave’s standards, commercial. The Lyre of Orpheus, meanwhile, slows things down, leaning further into blues and folk that feel stranger and more unpredictable. “Fable of the Brown Ape” feels as though it belongs on the second record, and its placement as the closing track on Abattoir Blues makes it a gentle bridge between the two halves.

Love this so much. Think I prefer abbatoir but o children to finish is delightful

Rhyming "Orpheus" with "Orifice" is not nearly as clever as it appears NC thinks it is. Spell is proto stomp clap music. "Wow, he's like... singing about death and stuff. He must be so deep."

I feel like Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds has been on the periphery of music that I have listened to over the years. I'd hear a song here and there but never delved deeply into it. I found that this album was a mixed bag for me. Many of the uptempo songs I found overproduced and long. But I liked some of the slower tunes like O Children and Babe, You Turn Me On. The music is well performed, it just didn't really vibe with me or hold my interest.

This was quite an intense and, at times, confusing listen. Firstly, much of the musicianship, imagery, and group vocals are top quality, establishing a great base for this project to build upon. Despite this, I felt sometimes as if the unapologetic ambition attempted to bite off more than it could chew. While there are so many cinematic moments with grand instrumentals and storytelling, it’s unruly as a whole, and a handful of tracks and passages truly fall flat. Fable of the Brown Ape is the best example. There is just so much going on and it stays engaging enough for a double album but still goes on too long for how much I enjoyed it. This is exacerbated by the fact that I feel confidently that the first half is better on just about every front. I could see myself just listening to Abattoir Blues and skipping The Lyre of Orpheus in the future. Even so, the first six tracks do most of the heavy lifting there but they are so good. Despite some clear criticisms the majority of the tracks here are strong and interesting, leaving me feeling pretty positively about my experience if still conflicted. 1 listen Favorite Tracks: O Children; Hiding All Away; There She Goes, My Beautiful World; Messiah Ward; Get Ready for Love; Easy Money

Going forward, will submit brief reviews. Was leaning 2 for a while but the more I listened the more I found myself liking this. Might even return to it soon. A surprise find.

I have not heard of this band at all but they were pretty good, I enjoyed it

pretty navel-gazey kind of pretentious stuff but lucky for me i love that kind of thing. the choir sounds great too. really good at making songs sound like big events

Half and last song

For the most part, this was a 4 for me, HOWEVER O Children is one of my absolute favorite songs that I've ever heard, SO it's a 5. God, I freaking love O Children, had to listen to it 5 times today since this album gave me the excuse.

Might deserve another listen. But upon first pass, mid.

I like the first half. Maybe even approaching 4 stars. Not a fan of double albums but they are better when each half has a different concept/style. Second half is more of a soft 3.

I'm not cool enough to sit through this.

eh not my cup of tea

FAR too long, and all a bit samey.

Greatly fucked with the lyre of Orpheus more than abattoir blues

Grandiose in its ambition and execution. Equal parts meditative, brooding and anthemic.

Grew on me a lot as I listened, a lot of the songs reminded me of musical theatre with a sense of bombastic, will listen again

🤮

its interesting

Not for me

not bad but not for me

I’m sorry Nick, I didn’t recognise your game. Ts good as hell

I can't imagine when I'll ever be in the mood to listen to this album. It's so good, but what an anomaly.

Worrying amount of Nick Cave albums on this list now. First side was fairly decent. Reminded me a bit of Murder Ballads at times, which was an album that worked quite well for me. Second half was not that much to count home. More Nick Cave, but not his best work in my opinion. And at this point, that's a bit too little. For the sake of this author's reputation, I hope we're done seeing Nick Cave on this list now. But I fear we might not.

Okay, so I listened to this album way back when, and it pretty much passed me by. So much so that I couldn’t really write a review of it at the time. Now I’ve listened to it again during a long train ride, and I finally got it. I’m not sure how many Nick Cave albums we’ve had on this list by now, but this one was a good one. Even though it’s a long album, I think the double-album format works well, as there’s a clear difference between the two “sides.” I enjoyed both the rock-oriented first CD and the more traditional Nick Cave-sounding second half. There are plenty of great songs, including “Get Ready for Love,” “Nature Boy,” “Easy Money,” and “Supernaturally.” Maybe it’s not doing anything particularly different from his other albums, but it’s still very good. I can even forgive the long runtime, as it almost feels like a concept album, with two clearly distinct sides. Sometimes an album just needs to find you at the right time, and I guess that’s what happened here. Weak 4

I’m really trying not to use 5’s so flippantly but what else can you do when you listen to Nick Cave?? Listened to a fair bit of his newer stuff which I adore - an older poetic voice against amazing orchestration is one thing, but a slightly younger and heavier version of the same ordeal makes Tom a VERY happy boy indeed. Annoyed I get to hear this for the first time only once.

It's a solid 2.5, will I round up or down?

Liked this way more than I anticipated. Too long tho.

17 songs My second Nick Cave album within a span of about one week. I just think his music is pretty slow, and not in an atmospheric or interesting way, but rather in a boring, dragging slog type of way. It probably would have gotten a 3 if not for the horrendously long runtime.

3.5/5

great lyrical story telling but im not a lyrics guy

Exceeded expectations.

Being a casual Nick Cave listener, taking the time to listen to more of his songs is a joy. And it's a really good album! The use of the choir being a common thread throughout makes the listening experience cohesive, as the messaging fluctuates between different levels of darkness.

This sucks, every song is too long, I don’t care about what the lyrics say, worst album by far. I don’t understand what all the 5 star reviews see in it, I wish I did so that I could’ve enjoyed that hour and a half of my life that I’ll never get back

peak blues and gospel sound, intense, emotional, and with just the right touch of eccentricity; an exploration of a sound you already know, taken to a higher level. a fantastic band elevated by great production and a selection of sounds that gives it a unique personality and character. each element serves a purpose greater than its function; the choirs and organs enter like trains on tracks, building blues rhythms with guitar and keyboards, and certain exotic percussions result in something greater than the sum of its parts the biblical and solemn sound reinforces a songwriting that uses symbols from the religious imagination to construct a narrative with the tone of our founding stories against the backdrop of everyday life

Southern-Gothic, Gospel-choired, Greek-mythos - Great-stuff!!

Bloody double albums!!!! Even with its extended duration this hits hard and grabs an easy 4 star rating The shame is there’s a 5 star album in there waiting to be edited. The run from Messiah ward to abattoir blues is largely flawless. Similarly, disc 2 flies for much of its duration. I love how the backing vocals and production on this album lift it to a soaring sonic height (see Gene Clark - No other for a comparison) This is a great find and one I will no doubt revisit in full. Edit: 446 reviews in and this is my first edit of a rating. Upon further listening I think only the book enders of disc 1 let the ensemble down. The opening track feels hugely out of place and was prime culling fodder. Anyway I’m upgrading to a full house!

Hits you like a frying pan to the face, full of vital energy - Abattoir Blues might get a five on its own terms but, while there’s still plenty of strong stuff on The Lyre of Orpheus, the more sedate pace after the urgency of what came before means it feels as though it tails off.

good

I like but idk wasn’t engrossed

Not bad. Original voice, interesting instrumentation, good variety. Although it seems they try too hard at times. Also, the rhyming philosophy was a bit maddening. In the end the simpler quieter songs were better.

J'arrivais biaisé positivement car je ne connaissais que très peu Nick Cave et j'avais envie d'avoir + de rock conté, L'album n'est pas aussi dérangeant que ce que je pensais mais la patte du groupe reste facilement identifiable dans un style plus rock

The songs are fine, maybe even good, but the album went on for way too long.

#178/1001 🇦🇺🇬🇧 Nick is one of my favourite artists and seeing live is nothing less than a religious experience. I can't say that this one of my favourites of his albums. I would trade this for Let Love In most days. Its often said that inside a Double Album that there is 1 great one. Both discs have their distinct identities and i think thats why this works so well. Abattoir Blues is the rocking gospel record whilst Orpheus has a more intimate Pastoral feel. There are many high points but the lyrics of Babe You Turn me on just make me cringe. Thank god there are amazing tracks like There She Goes My Beautiful World, Oh Children and Breathless to make this more easy to forgive. Best Tracks: Abattoir: There She Goes My Beautiful World, Get Ready For Love, Nature Boy, Hiding All Away. Orpheus: Oh Children, Breathless, Carry Me, Spell.

I’ve listened to many Nick Cave albums over the last 30 years and have always enjoyed them but he is so productive. I’ve listened to Murder Ballad’s, You’re Funeral… My Trial, and The Firstborn Is Dead the most. I never listed to this one until it popped up here and I loved it. The only issue I have with his music is that it’s so emotionally heavy that I’m rarely in the mood for it.

Fabulous album never heard before some classic nick cave themes and setting

Un poco caca, disco indie standar, estoy un poco cansada de escuchar siempre lo mismo en este género.

I've run out of things to say about this guy, his music is just not nearly as cool or interesting as he thinks it is

Back in the days of Limewire, i discovered Nick Cave and downloaded his back catalogue to immerse myself. This was my entry point and i still think it is his peak. Beautiful swirling, angry composition with Nicks vocal that oscilates between growl and croon. Lyrics of love and life that paint vivid pictures and above all some damn good songs. A thing of beauty.

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds at their best. This album is peak cave, Blixas influence is still there and Mick Harvey's touch is everywhere. The 1st disc is bombastic, passionate, raw, loud, thumping, sexy, and music to immerse in. The second disc shows a more tender and vulnerable side of Nick making it music to listen to. But whatever the mood the Seeds go with it and excel

It’s worth it to lock in for the lyrics, because they’re pretty good. The best part, I would say.

Doesn't sound bad, but a bit long. Maybe I'll come back it with more time.

not sure how i get two nick cave albums in the span of a week. that being said this is almost as drab as the boatmans call

This dude just fuckin gets it.

Tired, unintersting, and way too long.

Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds are in peak form here. dude has one of the most commanding presences of our time, and he’s one of the rare vocalists/lyricists who have me pulling up the lyric sheets to follow along. the band crushes the range of songs, from hard stompers to ethereal dirges. any group with Warren Ellis in the mix is gonna come with some supernatural stuff. not a single weak track here. we’re gonna get a few Nick Cave releases thru this list, and this was a very strong way to start. life affirming.

Some sublime energy on this album. I love the storytelling and the literary quality to Cave’s writing. There’s always some striking imagery or turn of phrase right around the corner. I was kind of reminded of Roberto Bolaño’s ‘2666’ in that there’s a lot of infernal energy mixed with really life affirming stuff, while also being pretty funny. I laughed out loud at the gym at this couplet: “ I went to bed last night and my moral code got jammed I woke up this morning with a Frappuccino in my hand.” because I feel that. The musical backdropping always fits and is so moody but with enough tricks on every song that they’re distinct. Electric stuff. It kinda lost me on the last few songs of ‘The Lyre of Orpheus,’ but I’m sure I’ll end up liking those songs too as I go back and continue to listen.

Nick Caved

strong opening track. there's a couple of songs i like. great discovery

For some reason Nick Cave's voice ruined a ton of good instrumentation and downright good beats...

couldn't wait for it to be over. mostly bad.

Holy fuck I love nick cave and this album, it’s genuinely beautiful and perfect

Great passion

Meh

Noen høydepunkter, og ok altså, men ikke en 4-er

Get Ready for Love There She Goes my Beautiful World Nature Boy Let the Bells Ring Supernaturally. Disk 1: 4/5 Disk 2: 2/5

Even if he's a bit of a knob these days this is still great

Great album, O Children stand out

This guy is some writer. I wonder if he was really long drawn opinions on anything else ?

I don't fully get why this is on the list. Maybe at the time it was created, it felt like this album did something specific, like bringing an older rock sound into the 21st century. However, to me, this sounds very generic. If I hadn't read that this was an Australian artist, I would have thought it was an American band. Rock is my main genre but not this rock.

First few songs were okay. Then it got slow and was trying to make me nod off.

I think this would’ve appealed to me more if they were separate albums. I liked the second half more. The songs themselves were pretty long too, so I found myself skipping halfway through after I felt I got the gist. I can see what this has for people who like this kind of music, but it wasn’t for me. I liked Breathless and Carry Me.

I can’t say it better than the estimable George Starostin: “Long, scary, lovely, and goshdarn but is it ever SOOOOO well written. Song after song of terrific Cave material. I'm in heaven.” Eighty minutes and not a single weak moment. One of the best examples of an artist consciously attempting to sand off a few of their more “prickly” elements and coming out with something even better than they had before. A masterpiece, and Cave’s best record, no small thing for the man with one of the most high-quality discographies in rock music. I can’t even pick out any specific memorable moments out of this monster because I’d be here all day. Best track: “There She Goes, My Beautiful World”

4/10… art rock / alternative pop / *2004

Very many very okay songs.

I like this sound of this, but Nick Cave in general is a bit out there for me. Funny thing is that this doesn't really sound like a Nick Cave album to me.

A healthy middleground between the classic, messy, rocky Cave and the later, more gentle Cave, it lasts for a long time and it's generally very solid. It could be a little over-lengthy but its offerings are good and it serves well as a general example of Nick Cave's style

Incredibly pretentious, like all his stuff, but probably my favorite Cave album(s). The guitar is the star on the first disc and the piano on the second, but really, everything is basically perfect. It hits strong right out of the gate with Get Ready for Love, and travels all the way toward the haunting O Children choir with scarcely a bum note along the way. Okay, I could maybe do without the Ape song, but Cannibal's Hymn and Easy Money are among the best things he ever wrote, and they're only two of the standouts. When the chorus of "There is a war coming" bursts out in Hiding All Away, I still get chills.

This has a song from my favorite scene in Harry Potter! Definitely gets extra points for that. Otherwise, I hadn't listened to this guy before and I really liked it! I would revisit this album even if O Childern wasn't on it.

niet perse slecht, maar ook niet goed. zou er niet nog een keer naar luisteren.

Please stop with Nick Cave. In no way does he warrant this many albums, if any, in the top 1001

Least bad nick cave album thus far

eh

Pretty good. I love me some NC&TBS, but their ‘80s & ‘90s albums are what I prefer and first got into. Well, those and the spinoff Grinderman albums. Those Grinderman albums are greater, man, than today’s selection TBH (Tabey buying ham).

Love Nick Cave, and love this iteration of the Bad Seeds with Warren Ellis. So yeah. Love this.

Nick Cave is one of those artists I know I should listen to more.

Oh my god, how do I review this? Musically its great, I just don't like his voice. But for a lot of the tracks it just suits the music so well. It's the type of thing that should be right up my street, but there's something in me that just says nah, and I don't know why. Objectively I want to give it a 4, but part of me says its crap. So ill split the difference. 3

Wow. Thats what I was looking for!!! On the first 2 Nick Cave offerings I was left disappointed, commenting how much I wanted to like his work based on the odd track here and there that I love. Third time lucky, as this one is exceptional. The first album is in your face brilliant. Prefer him rocking out compared to the sometimes grating ballad crooning. The gospel style backing singers really make a huge difference too. The second album is solid, but not quite the heights of the first. I can’t quite justify a 5, as there are three tracks that I have deleted from my digital copy, but that leaves me with an hours worth of interesting material that will be listened to again I know for sure.

The first half is a tour de force of gospel goth rock. Absolutely stunning. I love his modern retelling of the Orpheus myth (I am a classicist after all). I really do need to spend some time listening to his lyrics. The second half of the album has a different feel to it more stripped back. It would have been better if it had been released as two single albums possibly, that makes it a 'skipper' rather than a full on perfect album.

This is a great album to introduce someone to this band.

started off a bit.. off. but then it builds... and builds... and builds. one of the best overall album experiences I've had from this list.