Yanqui U.X.O. (2002)
Yanqui U.X.O. is the third studio album by Godspeed You! Black Emperor (GY!BE) and the band’s first entirely instrumental work. Released on November 4, 2002, the album was recorded by Steve Albini at Electrical Audio in Chicago and mixed by Howard Bilerman and the band at Hotel2Tango in Montreal. With its anti-war and anti-imperialist themes, the album reflects the band’s deepening political and musical identity.
The title combines "Yanqui" (a term referring to American imperialism) and "U.X.O." (Unexploded Ordnance), emphasizing the destructive legacy of global conflicts. The album cover features a diagram illustrating the military connections of the four major music corporations (AOL Time-Warner, BMG, Sony, Universal).
The track "09-15-00" references the date September 15, 2000, near the beginning of the Second Intifada. Featuring the band’s characteristic long and epic structures, the album delivers an intense and emotionally charged atmosphere.
Yanqui U.X.O. remains a profound statement of Godspeed You! Black Emperor’s artistry and activism, solidifying their legacy in post-rock and political music.
Album Line-Up
The album’s line-up highlights the band’s instrumental richness and creative depth. The expanded instrumentation enhances the dramatic structure and intensity of the compositions.
- Efrim Menuck – Guitar, keyboard
- Mike Moya – Guitar
- Mauro Pezzente – Bass guitar
- Thierry Amar – Bass guitar, double bass
- David Bryant – Guitar, tape loops
- Sophie Trudeau – Violin
- Norsola Johnson – Cello
- Aidan Girt – Drums, percussion
- Bruce Cawdron – Drums, percussion
- Roger Tellier-Craig – Guitar
Tracklist
The album presents three extended instrumental tracks that convey a dense and atmospheric experience. Each piece reflects the band’s signature sound while emphasizing their political undertones.
- 09-15-00 – (22:40): Referencing the Second Intifada, this track delivers a deep emotional atmosphere and openly reflects the band’s political message.
- Rockets Fall on Rocket Falls – (20:43): A dramatic composition depicting war and destruction, featuring dense and layered arrangements.
- Motherfucker=Redeemer – (32:21): The album’s longest piece, this track takes the listener on an emotional journey, oscillating between melancholy and rage.
