Album Info
| Artist: | David Sylvian |
| Album: | Died In The Wool | Manafon Variations |
| Released: | Europe, 30 Jan 2025 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Small Metal Gods | 5:09 |
| A2 | Died In The Wool | 6:03 |
| A3 | I Should Not Dare (For N. O.) | 3:24 |
| A4 | Random Acts Of Senseless Violence | 6:24 |
| B1 | A Certain Slant Of Light (For M. K.) | 3:28 |
| B2 | Anomaly At Taw Head | 5:06 |
| B3 | Snow White In Appalachia | 5:59 |
| B4 | Emily Dickinson | 3:35 |
| C1 | The Greatest Living Englishman (Coda) | 3:06 |
| C2 | Anomaly At Taw Head (A Haunting) | 3:12 |
| C3 | Manafon | 4:05 |
| C4 | The Last Days Of December | 6:16 |
| D1 | When We Return You Won't Recognise Us | 18:15 |
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Description
David Sylvian's "Died in the Wool | Manafon Variations" is a fascinating exploration of sound and emotion, released in May 2011. This album serves as both a companion and a reimagining of his 2009 work "Manafon", offering listeners a deeper dive into Sylvian's avant-garde and experimental approach to music. Known for his ability to craft deeply introspective and atmospheric pieces, Sylvian continues to push boundaries with this release.
"Died in the Wool" is not merely a remix album; it is a recontextualisation of the themes and ideas presented in "Manafon." The album features reworked versions of tracks from "Manafon", as well as new compositions and collaborations. Sylvian worked with a range of musicians and composers, including Dai Fujikura, who contributed string arrangements that add a lush, cinematic quality to the pieces. These arrangements bring a new dimension to the sparse and minimalist soundscapes of the original album, creating a sense of depth and richness that is both captivating and haunting.
One of the standout aspects of "Died in the Wool" is its ability to balance complexity with emotional resonance. The album's soundscapes are intricate and layered, yet they never feel overwhelming or inaccessible. Instead, they invite the listener to immerse themselves fully in the music, to explore its textures and nuances. Tracks like "I Should Not Dare" and "Anomaly at Taw Head" exemplify this approach, blending Sylvian's evocative vocals with experimental instrumentation and arrangements that challenge conventional song structures.
The album also includes "When We Return You Won't Recognise Us", a piece that was originally part of the "Manafon" sessions but was not included on the final album. This track, along with others, showcases Sylvian's ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. His lyrics are poetic and introspective, exploring themes of identity, transformation, and the human condition. Combined with the album's innovative production and instrumentation, these elements make "Died in the Wool" a truly unique listening experience.
Critical reception to "Died in the Wool" was generally positive, with many reviewers praising Sylvian's willingness to experiment and his ability to create music that defies easy categorisation. The album is a testament to his artistic vision and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what music can be. It is not an album that will appeal to everyone, but for those who are willing to engage with its complexities and subtleties, it offers a rewarding and thought-provoking experience.
In conclusion, "Died in the Wool | Manafon Variations" is a compelling addition to David Sylvian's discography. It is an album that challenges the listener to think differently about music and its possibilities, while also offering moments of profound beauty and emotional depth. Whether you are a long-time fan of Sylvian's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is well worth exploring.
