Listen: Swans Unveil New ‘Oxygen’ Track

They’re not lowering the bar on old fashioned intensity, but Swans are definitely heading outwards, offering up new ideas.

‘Oxygen’ is the latest example. Joining ‘A Little God In My Hands’ as a preview of new album ‘To Be Kind’, it’s a song that sees Michael Gira running down a clattering, chaotic, rhythm-heavy route. For the first half, things stay relatively minimal. After that it’s anyone’s game. Disjointed horn sections pour in, Gira’s vocals resembling a tribal chant.

Swans’ new album features guest spots from Annie Clark aka St. Vincent and Cold Specks. It’s released on 12th May.

Swans, ‘Oxygen’:



Swans play the following UK dates:

MAY
22 Manchester, Academy 2
23 Newcastle, Hoults Yard
24 Glasgow, The Arches
25 Aberdeen, The Lemon Tree
27 London, Brixton Electric
28 Bristol, Trinity Community Arts
29 Reading, Sub89
31 Birmingham, Supersonic Festival – Custard Factory

JUNE
01 Leeds, Cockpit
02 Brighton, Concorde 2