"Cop / Young God" is a seminal work by Swans, marking their early foray into the experimental and avant-garde music scene. Released on January 1, 1984, under the Mute label, this album is a raw and unfiltered exploration of noise rock, post-punk, and industrial sounds that would come to define Swans' unique sonic landscape. The album is a compilation of two key releases from that year: the "Cop" album and the "Young God" EP, both of which were re-released together on CD in 1992.
The 12-track collection spans a diverse range of genres, including post-rock, neofolk, industrial rock, experimental, and art rock, showcasing Swans' versatility and innovative approach to music. With a duration of one hour and five minutes, "Cop / Young God" is a dense and immersive experience, featuring tracks like "Half Life," "Job," "Why Hide," and the provocative "Raping a Slave." The album is known for its sonic dismemberment and cathartic intensity, as noted by critics, making it a pivotal release in the early discography of Swans.
This compilation is a testament to Swans' early experimental phase, offering a glimpse into the band's formative years and their impact on the noise rock and industrial genres. For fans of experimental music and those interested in the evolution of Swans, "Cop / Young God" is an essential listen, providing a raw and uncompromising look at the band's early sound.