To Be Kind

"To Be Kind" is the thirteenth studio album by American experimental rock band Swans, released on May 12, 2014. This double album, produced by John Congleton in Texas, is a testament to the band's evolution and their ability to push musical boundaries. The songs were crafted during Swans' extensive 2012 and 2013 tours, capturing the raw energy and intensity of their live performances.

The album spans a diverse range of genres, including noise rock, post-rock, neofolk, industrial rock, experimental, industrial, post-punk, avant-garde, art rock, and drone. With a duration of over two hours, "To Be Kind" is a monumental work that showcases Swans' unique sound and artistic vision. The deluxe edition of the album features a live DVD of the band's performance at the 2013 Primavera Sound festival in Barcelona, providing fans with an immersive experience of Swans' live prowess.

"To Be Kind" is Swans' highest-performing album both on the charts and critically, solidifying their status as pioneers in the experimental rock genre. The album features collaborations with notable artists such as Little Annie and St. Vincent, adding depth and diversity to the already rich sonic landscape. With its juxtaposition of violence and love, sex and tenderness, "To Be Kind" is a complex and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.

The album's artwork, designed by Michael Gira and Bob Biggs, complements the music's intensity and surrealism. "To Be Kind" is a powerful and uncompromising work that challenges listeners and rewards them with a deep and rewarding listening experience.