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In Praise of Learning

by Henry Cow with Slapp Happy

Released: May 09, 1975

Avant-rock

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Experimental Album.

The Album

The lyrics of the album reflect the political turmoil of the time, addressing issues such as capitalism, imperialism, and the struggle for social justice. This project marked the second collaboration between the two bands, following the release of "Desperate Straights" earlier the same year. "In Praise of Learning" is notable for its experimental soundscapes, intricate arrangements, and socially conscious themes.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

The album remains a landmark work in the…

The album remains a landmark work in the experimental music canon, showcasing the collaborative talents of Henry Cow and Slapp Happy in their quest to push the boundaries of musical expression.

"In Praise of Learning" is a collaborative album…

"In Praise of Learning" is a collaborative album between the English avant-rock band Henry Cow and the avant-pop group Slapp Happy, released in 1975.

The album features a fusion of Henry Cow's…

The album features a fusion of Henry Cow's complex and politically charged avant-rock compositions with Slapp Happy's catchy melodies and quirky lyrics.

Tracks like "War," "Living in the Heart of…

Tracks like "War," "Living in the Heart of the Beast," and the title track "In Praise of Learning" showcase the band's commitment to exploring complex ideas through their music.

Watch and listen

Explore the Album

Henry Cow with Slapp Happy - In Praise of Learning

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Reception

Despite its challenging and avant-garde nature, "In Praise of Learning" received critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its innovative approach and artistic ambition.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"In Praise of Learning" is a collaborative album between the English avant-rock band Henry Cow and the avant-pop group Slapp Happy, released in 1975. This project marked the second collaboration between the two bands, following the release of "Desperate Straights" earlier the same year.

The album features a fusion of Henry Cow's complex and politically charged avant-rock compositions with Slapp Happy's catchy melodies and quirky lyrics. "In Praise of Learning" is notable for its experimental soundscapes, intricate arrangements, and socially conscious themes.

The lyrics of the album reflect the political turmoil of the time, addressing issues such as capitalism, imperialism, and the struggle for social justice. Tracks like "War," "Living in the Heart of the Beast," and the title track "In Praise of Learning" showcase the band's commitment to exploring complex ideas through their music.

Despite its challenging and avant-garde nature, "In Praise of Learning" received critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its innovative approach and artistic ambition. The album remains a landmark work in the experimental music canon, showcasing the collaborative talents of Henry Cow and Slapp Happy in their quest to push the boundaries of musical expression.