Inside Noise 6/23 (Yeah, It’s Just Swans)

After 40 years in the game, it's looking like one of the greatest experimental bands of all time may be hanging up the hat. NYC's Swans leave the distinct fingerprint of band leader Michael Gira on everything they touch, creating their trademark pulsating, hypnotic sound that constantly reflects upon the worst that humanity has to offer. One of the first things to notice about The Beggar is the apparent drop in intensity from some of the band's other recent work. Gira spends less time screaming here, and the guitars are not as frequently allowed to hit a dramatic crescendo. However, in doing the job of discussing the quickly approaching end of his life, this sound couldn't be more appropriate. Gira here sounds exhausted, but this bodily need to step back from his intense art bumps up against his desperate will to cling to life. This album reminds me of Blackstar by Bowie in a lot of ways, as both records examine the end of life and exist to tie up the loose ends of a legendary discography. We don't know for sure that this is the last Swans album, but hearing The Beggar after considering where the band started this epic journey really does seem like the logical conclusion; the bite is finally almost gone, leaving behind the immaculately beautiful foundation beneath. This one may not be the absolute best Swans record, but it's already taken an absolutely essential place in their story. 9/10.

-Michael