Interviews

Michael Gira - SWANS (Audio Interview)

Walladmin
Heavy Metal Wordsmith
Oct 31, 2019
8 min read

We had the pleasure of talking with Michael Gira, mastermind of SWANS; New York’s infamous ‘loudest band in the world’ turned gothic/post-rock/experimental outfit. After their break up in 1997 and reformation in 2010 to unexpected critical acclaim, Gira has decided again to dissolve the band in favour of a revolving door of hand-picked musicians.

For the ill-informed, SWANS first album since the lineup change, Leaving Meaning, dropped on October 25th (our review here). Have a listen to us talk about the future of the band as an ensemble, Michael’s thoughts on Nicolas Winding Refn, piracy in 2019, the philosophy behind Leaving Meaning, and what future remasters Young God Records have in store.

Interview by Elliott Nunn (@alphaalpacapack)

[audio src="https://wallofsoundau.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Gira-Interview-19-10-25.mp3"][/audio]

 

Leaving Meaning is out NOW, Grab a copy here

cover-Swans-Leaving-Meaning-

SWANS – Leaving Meaning tracklisting:

1. Hums
2. Annaline
3. The Hanging Man
4. Amnesia
5. Leaving Meaning
6. Sunfucker
7. Cathedrals of Heaven
8. The Nub
9. It’s Coming It’s Real
10. Some New Things
11. What is This?
12. My Phantom Limb

Walladmin
Heavy Metal Wordsmith

Latest interviews to check out

Interview
Aug 15, 2025

Converge Festival - A Headliners Deep Dive Into The Importance of Cherishing Local Talent

Interview
Aug 14, 2025

Tim McIlrath - Rise Against 'Music is One of the Few Places We All Co-Exist'

Interview
Aug 11, 2025

Ben Gordon - Parkway Drive 'Limitless, Drums and a Shirtless Chris Hemsworth'