Released: 05/06/26
Blown reunites Swallow’s first two releases, Blow (1992) and Blowback (1992), along with a bonus two-track single, available as a double LP + 12" or double CD. A hidden gem of the classic 4AD era, Swallow blended dreamy shoegaze textures, fuzzy guitars, and the haunting vocals of Louise Trehy to create a lush, atmospheric sound.
Formed in early-1990s London by Louise Trehy and Mike Mason, the band was signed to 4AD after Ivo Watts-Russell received their demo tape. While Blow drew comparisons to the label’s signature sound, it struggled for attention amid the rise of grunge. Unsatisfied with the album’s production, the band remixed and reworked the material, resulting in the more experimental Blowback, released later that year as a limited edition that quickly became rare.
For Blown, the recordings have been reconstructed from the original 24-track tapes, remixed, and remastered by Anne Taegert at Dubplates & Mastering Berlin. The release also features new packaging by Chris Bigg (v23), inspired by Vaughan Oliver’s original artwork. The collection restores Swallow’s reputation as an overlooked but significant act in both the 4AD catalog and the shoegaze genre.