The Beggar

Swans, the pioneering experimental rock band, return with their sixteenth studio album, "The Beggar," a monumental work that spans over two hours and delves into the depths of the human experience. Released on June 23, 2023, via Mute and Young God Records, this album is a testament to the band's enduring creativity and their ability to push the boundaries of genre.

Written during the COVID-19 pandemic, "The Beggar" was recorded at Candy Bomber Studio in Berlin, Germany, across 2022. Frontman Michael Gira, along with key collaborators and both past and present members of Swans, crafted an album that is as intense as it is introspective. The album's title was first confirmed by Gira during a show in Helsinki, setting the stage for an album that is as much a reflection of the times as it is a bold artistic statement.

"The Beggar" is a sprawling epic, featuring tracks that range from the droning, brassy "The Beggar Lover (Three)" to the raw beauty of "Paradise is Mine." The album's tracklist includes standout songs like "The Parasite," "Los Angeles: City of Death," and "Michael is Done," each offering a unique perspective on the themes of isolation, resilience, and the human condition.

The album's genres span noise rock, post-rock, neofolk, industrial rock, experimental, industrial, post-punk, avant-garde, art rock, and drone, showcasing Swans' versatility and their ability to blend disparate musical elements into a cohesive whole. The European version of the album comes housed in a gatefold sleeve, complete with an insert, a poster, and a download code, offering fans a rich and immersive experience.

"The Beggar" is not just an album; it is a journey through the mind of one of rock's most innovative and fearless bands. With its sprawling, epic songs and its raw, unfiltered energy, "The Beggar" is a powerful addition to Swans' discography and a testament to their enduring influence on the world of experimental rock.