Misery Is a Butterfly

Misery Is a Butterfly is the sixth studio album by American alternative rock band Blonde Redhead. The album was released on March 15, 2004, by 4AD. Much of the visual and lyrical imagery of the album is reflective of an accident in which lead singer Kazu Makino was trampled by a horse.

Kazu Makino’s Horse Accident Influenced the Album

Much of the album’s emotional and lyrical content reflects Makino’s 2003 horseback accident, which required facial reconstructive surgery and months of rehabilitation including relearning how to sing. Tracks like “Elephant Woman” and “Equus” make direct lyrical and rhythmic references to this event

Third Album to Feature Orchestral Arrangements

ontinuing the sonic evolution that began with 2000’s Melody of Certain Damaged Lemons, the album integrates lush string arrangements (viola, violin, cello) and clavichords, giving it a cinematic, chamber-pop feel. Contributors include Eyvind Kang and Jane Scarpantoni