Thirsty For Song: James Johnston Of Gallon Drunk's Favourite LPs | Page 7 of 14 | The Quietus

Baker's Dozen

Artists discuss the 13 records that shaped their lives

6. Nick Cave & The Bad SeedsFrom Her To Eternity

The first time I saw The Birthday Party was at Guildford University when I was about 16. About 90% of the audience stood at the back, and there were about two rows at the front going mad. I went up to see them in London a few times after that, the last one being an amazing gig at the Lyceum, I think, supported by Einstürzende Neubauten. Just unbelievable.

When this came out after they split up it was such a jolt; it seemed so strange, a totally new terrain and a bit like the surprise of first hearing the first PiL album when it came out. It’s so unusual and angular, with these incredible guitar parts and it felt so fresh, original and thrilling. The title track sounded like nothing I’d ever heard before, like Mars off The Planets gone berserk, or Stravinsky meets No Wave, you know, ‘what the hell is this!?’

The first time I heard it I just didn’t know what to make of it, I just needed to hear it again and get lost in its mad, intense drama, with one of the most intense vocal takes I can think of. Unbelievable. A statement record, totally wild, unhinged and brilliant.

Selected in other Baker’s Dozens: Jon Spencer
PreviousNext Record

The Quietus Digest

Sign up for our free Friday email newsletter.

Support The Quietus

Our journalism is funded by our readers. Become a subscriber today to help champion our writing, plus enjoy bonus essays, podcasts, playlists and music downloads.

Support & Subscribe Today